Conventions of a thriller 

- Narratives would have similar themses, such as suspense which leads to violence; where there has ro be a hero and a villian 

- There is always going to be dark lighting where there is isolated locations 

- Non- diegetic sound that creates atmosphere and tension 

- Sycronous sounds to match the action 

- All films set up an enigma ( we want to find out who solved the mystery)

Different types of thrillers

ACTION THRILLER- uses physical action to create suspense within the film. Like a traditional Action film, this sub-genre will often have continuous motion and action including physical stunts, chases, fights, battles, and races. Often, these scenes will contribute to the overall sense of danger that the protagonist is facing. Exaples: 

CRIME THRILLER- sub-genre that incorporates the suspenseful aspects of a thriller with a crime film plot. This sub-genre's plot usually centers on a serial killer, murderer, robbery, or manhunt. As opposed to traditional crime films, the storyline focuses both around the criminal and the protagonist. Crime Thrillers use both action and psychological aspects to build tension and suspense. . For example: 

PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER- incorporates elements of drama and mystery film. The suspense in this sub-genre comes from the mind, rather than from a psychical threat. The protagonists in Psychological Thrillers must rely on their mental resources to solve the situation. Because of their nature, many Psychological Thrillers cross over into the Horror genre.

SCIENCE FICTION THRILLER- incorporates hypothetical, science-based themes into the plot of the film. Traditionally, a Science Fiction film will incorporate heroes, villains, unexplored locations, fantastical quests, and advanced technology. These elements can be used in a Science Fiction Thriller to create anticipation and suspense. Often, this sub-genre will explore the “future-gone-bad” theme, including plots that revolve around alien invasions, dystopian scenarios, and super-diseases. Films such as: 

                           

DISASTER THRILLER- a  natural disaster is taking place, and the antagonist is either trying to stop the disaster, the extent of the disaster, or just save themselves before time runs out and the disaster has run its course. Examples:

CONSPIRACY THRILLER- the protagonist must confront a large, powerful organization whose threat only he sees. Usually he must do so alone. Films such as: 

                         

MEDICAL THRILLER-   This involves something usually used for medical purposes becoming a deadly weapon. Often it is a virus that is leaking out to the public. The protagonist or antagonist or both are doctors.

GANGSTER THRILLER- developed around sinister actions of criminal or gangster, like bank robbers and underworld figures who operate outside the law. The stories usually highlight the life of a crime figure or victim. Showing the rise or fall of gangs, criminal murderers or law breakers.