Sunday 27 January 2013

What is a thriller?

A thriller is a genre that revolves around anticipation and suspense, thrillers make the audience on edge and alert.

There are many types of sub-genres of thrillers these include:


Action Thriller- This is when physical action is used to create tension within the film. It will have many motions and actions including; fights, battles, races, physical stunts and chases within it to give the effect of the overall danger the protagonist (hero) is facing, just like a traditional action film.

Examples of action thriller films are; Kill Bill Volume.1 (2003), Die Hard (1988), The Professional (1994).

Crime Thriller- This is a sub-genre that combines the aspects of a thriller with a crime film plot. It's plot usually focuses on a serial killer, manhunt, robbery or murderer, they use both action and psychological aspects to build suspense and tension. Their main storyline includes the criminal and the protagonist, as apposed to traditional crime films.
Examples of crime thriller films are; Pulp Fiction (1994), Reservoir Dogs (1992), The Usual Suspects (1995).


Film-Noir- This is portrayed in a black-and-white style with stark lighting effects, the main character used in film-noir is usually a cynical hero. It mainly relies on various flashbacks and a narrative to explain the intricate plot.
Examples of film-noir films are; The Maltese Falcon (1941), Double Indemnity (1944), Detour (1945).


Psychological Thriller- In addition to the traits of a regular thriller film, a psychological thriller incorporates the elements of drama and mystery into the film. The suspense given in this sub-genre comes from the mind,  the protagonists must rely on their mental skills to solve a situation. Because of their nature, many psychological thrillers tend to cross over to the horror genre.

Examples of psychological thriller films are; The Talented Mr Ripley (1999), Fatal Attraction (1987), The Game (1997).


Science Fiction Thriller- This incorporates hypothetical, science-based themes into the plot of the film. A science fiction film will traditionally incorporate heroes, villains, unexplored locations, fantastical quests and advanced technology; these are used to create anticipation and suspense within the film. Often, this sub-genre will explore the “future-gone-bad” theme, including plots that revolve around alien invasions, dystopian scenarios, and super-diseases.
Examples of science fiction thriller films are; Aliens (1986), Inception (2010), District 9 (2009).



Religious Thriller- This incorporates religious themes, including religious questions, ceremonies, and objects. Though some films can revolve around a specific church, many religious thrillers include supernatural experiences not pertaining to a certain religion. Exorcisms, demon possession, and church cover-ups are typical themes of religious thrillers.
Examples of religious thriller films are; The Devil’s Advocate (1997), The Ninth Gate (1999), The Da Vinci Code (2006).

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