My AS Media Studies Blog

Primarily the main aim of a thriller film is to keep the audience on the edge of their seats and create a sense of suspense. The codes and conventions, which I will explore later, make the audience feel a certain way and this is what really defines a thriller film along with the main plot of the film. The quick paced nature of thrillers creates feelings of excitement, surprise and anticipation.

Main Sub-genres.

Crime Thriller.

The story of a crime thriller is usually from the criminal’s point of view opposed to being from the perspective of the police. It is centred on crimes including serial killings, murders, chases and robberies. Inside Man directed by Spike Lee can be classed under this sub-genre.

Psychological Thriller.

The conflict or problem found within psychological thrillers tends to be mental opposed to physical. Rather than having to battle physically with their enemies characters are often made to rely on their mental ability to solve problems and outwit their opponent. These tasks test and push their sanity to the limit. An example of a psychological thriller is Psycho directed by Alfred Hitchcock in 1960.

Mystery Thriller.

A mystery thriller is very similar to a crime thriller. However it is focussed on how detectives solve a mystery, which is the source of the suspense the audience feels. A lot of drama is created throughout and the audience normally sees the end of the case before the on screen actors and they work it out as they go along. Identity is a prime example of this genre and is directed by James Mangold.

Conspiracy Thriller.

The main aspect of this genre is where the heroes find themselves trapped within a situation that compromises their desired decisions and actions. They are usually part of a powerful organisation that is full of secrecy often presented as the government or a main global organisation. Alfred Hitchcock directed a film called North by Northwest which could be categorised into this category.

Supernatural Thriller.

To be categorised as a supernatural thriller a thriller film will include an element from out of this world it mixes with the typical feelings created within thriller films the create the suspense and tension. The protagonist normally has a supernatural power which aids them in solving the problem. In 1998 Gregory Hoblit directed a film called Fallen which carries this genre of film.

Political Thriller.

This sub-genre is based around the government and the reliance on the hero to prevent bad events from occurring. Usually the stability of the government is at stake. The Contender is a 2000 political thriller directed by Rod Lurie about the President of the United States and is therefore a good example of a political thriller.