Explanation of thriller conventions/micro-elements

In a thriller film there are a number of elements that must be taken into consideration when creating it. The following are the key subjects that must be thought about carefully when planning and creating a thriller film:

Location:

Usually you can expect the film to be set in a place that either contributes to or creates a contrast to the busy storyline of a thriller film for example the movie, 'Bat Man' is set in the busy city of Gotham. In this case, the dramatic storyline is complemented by it's setting.

Characters:

Characters can be completely different depending on the storyline and the personality of the character. For example, in 'I Am Legend, the main character has a very average image, however, his strong, heroic characteristics overcome this. In other thriller movies, characters are often criminals, characters with hidden problems (e.g. family killed - I Am Legend), and other criminals but with serious mental issues like the 'joker' from 'Bat Man'.

Narrative:

In a typical thriller movie, there would be two main characters, or two groups of characters. One group being the Protagonists (heros), and the other, therefore being the Antagonist (baddy). The way in which we take sides with the Protagonist is because there is often a background of the character to which we are made to empathise with, whereas, on the other hand with the Antagonist, we rarely see their history, as it makes them seem like they are on their own, and have nothing personal about them. Furthermore, our loyalty to the Protagonists in movies can be grown by the use of other elements and conventions such as sound; character themes, and empathetic sound.

Sometimes at the beginning of thriller films, we do not immediately understand the storyline, and events due to the lack of narration, and some techniques used to confuse the audience. This is often done on purpose, to build a tension within the audience, until there is a climax.

Props:
The main props used in a thriller are weapons (guns, explosives, knives etc). These contribute to adding suspense and a lot of tension, especially in particular scenes. The use of weapons can establish to an audience who is the Antagonist or Protagonist, depending on the narrative.

Sound:

Our loyalty to the Protagonists in movies can be grown by the use of sound; character themes, and empathetic sound for example a re two very important sound techniques, they can be crucial making the audience feel a particular emotion. Sound tracks are broadly used in the film industry. Thrillers can use sound tracks to create a tense moment, or tension throughout a whole scene. This technique is very adjustable to it's demands, and can be one of the biggest tension-builders in a thriller.