Genre Research: Thriller


 Camera Angles, Shots, and Movements:


        Angles:


High-angles

Low-angles

Dutch angles

Over-the-shoulder

        Shots:

Close-ups

extreme long shots

tracking shots

POV shots

        Movements:

slow zooms

quick cuts

smooth movements

camera dolly

Common Mis-en-Scene


        Costumes:

dark or neutral colored clothing

contrasting colored clothing

costumes to conceal identities

        Lighting:

Low key lighting for shadows

high contrast for dramatic effect

using shadows to create suspense

        Acting:

Intense facial expressions 

body language that conveys tension

        Makeup:

Subtle makeup

bold makeup for antagonists

use of makeup to create a sense of danger

        Props:


Use of weapons and objects with symbolic meaning.

Incorporation of technology for modern thrillers.

Clues and red herrings strategically placed.

        Setting:


Urban environments for a fast-paced atmosphere.

Isolated locations for added suspense.

Use of weather to enhance mood.



Sounds:


        Music:


Tense and suspenseful background music.

Use of silence for heightened anticipation.

Sudden, impactful music for jump scares.

        Ambient Sounds:


Creaking doors and floorboards for tension.

Footsteps in quiet moments for suspense.

Distant sirens or alarms for urgency.

        Dialogue:


Cryptic or ambiguous dialogue.

Whispers or hushed tones for secrecy

Editing:


        Cross-Cutting:

Alternating between two or more storylines for increased tension.

Building suspense through parallel editing.

Jump Cuts:

Abrupt transitions to disorient or surprise the audience.

Quick cuts to intensify action or moments of revelation.

Montage Sequences:

Condensing time or information through a series of rapid shots.

Using montage to build tension or convey a character's emotional journey.

Flashbacks/Flashforwards:

Non-linear storytelling for revealing crucial backstory.

Creating intrigue by providing glimpses of the future.

Match Cuts:

Smooth transitions between shots based on visual or thematic similarities.

Enhancing continuity and storytelling through visual parallels.

Sharp, intense exchanges for conflict.

Thriller Examples:

Gone Girl (2014)

Shutter Island (2010)

Die Hard (1988)

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Se7en (1995)



Elements I Like:


Intricate plot twists that keep the audience guessing.

Unpredictable character developments.

Exploration of the psychological aspects of characters.



Elements I Don't Like:


        

Lack of subtlety in portraying suspense or fear.

Plots that feel recycled or formulaic.

Overreliance on clichés without adding a unique twist.





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