thriller conventions

The conventions of a thriller movie fall into a list of categories, as do other genres of film. these categories are; sound, editing ( including camera work ), mise-en-scene, setting, iconography etc. 

• Sound: Music that delivers the feeling of tension as well as an upbeat racey sound to match the action etc. the sound is depicted as a wide variety of non-diegetic sound, this is a result of building tension and suspense in the appropriated scenes. diegetic sound is also very common, although this is found to be quieter in the scene.
• Editing: quick cuts, a large variety of different camera changes, tracking and panning shots are also common, particularly when showing a group of people who, as the audience, we should be interested in. zooming in and out of shots is also a certainty. titles reflect the type of film also, different font styles, sizes and effects reflect the beginning of the film. The credits are often superimposed over a shot or on a blank screen following non-diegetic sound, this creates the atmosphere for the start of the film. long shots and close up shots appear in a majority in thriller films, this is usually during points of action to show where it will take place as well as a build up of mood. the framing in thrillers usually is presented with the main character(s) at the higher level of the screen, this showing an essence of power in comparison to the characters who are not as important.
• Mise-en-scene: lighting is a very important factor in thriller movies, half lit character faces and the use of shadows portray a very dark and evil extrerior which builds tension in the storyline. dull colours such as greys, blacks and whites are often present as well as a bright contrast of red in blood, this usually connates blood or danger in the more horror like thrillers. mirrors and stairs are substantial convention in thrillers also, these add unpredictability or mystery to the plot which again builds tension etc. properties (props) such as guns and large knives are seen frequently in thrillers.
• Iconography – Shadows, Street Lamps, Confined Spaces, Running Water, Bars on Windows, Cities/towns. These are all conventions of thriller movies.