Thriller Film Conventions

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The modern day thriller is vastly different to the thriller film of Alfred Hitchcock’s era. They employ a darker theme and are often combined with other genres. Taking on conventions from horror, action/adventure and science fiction, the thriller is often considered a sub-genre; however, the modern day thriller is pushing the boundaries of other genres. The viewer may consciously think a film is a simple action movie, but subconsciously it involves the conventions of a thriller. Thrillers movies are designed similar to books, in that they have to hook the viewer, but reeling them in is where the thriller breaks into its own genre. They heavily stimulate the viewer’s moods, mostly in the form of fear or suspense, with the aim being to keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Action based T.V. shows are often the best overall example of a general thriller because they have to be short, but at the end of each episode you have to want to watch the next episode. …show more content…
Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Dark Knight’ is a well-known example of a movie which includes all of the typical character types. Which includes the hero – Christian Bale’s Batman. The Villain – Heath Ledger’s amazing portrayal of the Joker. The helper – Alfred Pennyworth. The donor – Lucius Fox. The princess or the heroes reward – Rachel Dawes. And the false hero - Harvey Dent, turned Two Face. Propp’s theory helps to develop the suspense and excitement of a film. Each character has their own specific role in the movie, some helping the hero and other trying to block the hero’s path to success. But what gives the variety of thrillers a common ground, is the intensity of emotions they create, predominantly those of fear and exhilaration, all designed to generate that all-important thrill. “By definition, if a thriller doesn't thrill, it's not doing its job”. (Patterson,