The Conventions of Thrillers

Narrative

The conventions of Thriller narratives largely depend on its sub-genre. For example, Action Thrillers usually follow Todorov's 5 stages of Narrative. 

1. Equilibrium
2. Disruption of Equilibrium
3. Attempt to resolve disruption
4. Success in resolving disruption
5. Equilibrium

The James Bond franchise famously uses this structure:

 

 
However, more psychological Thrillers usually don't follow such a traditional structure. They usually have quite a varied narrative, but they usually start in the past, future or in the form of a dream or vision.

The Black Swan follows this convention, as it begins with the main characters dream:



 

 

Characters

 

Most Thrillers include a main protagonist who is often played by a young, attractive man. They also often include an antagonist who are physically odd or disfigured somehow, a child character who is used to portray innocence and can act as a victim. Finally, usually have a foreign character in order to convey a sense of confusion to the audience.

 

     

Actors
In Thrillers, there are also conventional actors. Some actors are best known for appearing in Thrillers and as a result have become conventions of that genre. Actors such as Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Jodie Foster

                                                                                                                     

     



 Location
Most Thrillers are set in relatively normal locations such as a city or a suburban town. This is a convention because the director would want an ordinary location to contrast with the unusual activity that's occurring in the film.
 

Props
In more psychological thrillers, the props used tend to vary. However, in action, crime and sci-fi thrillers there is usually a heavy use of high tech weaponry in order to give the film a dangerous yet sophisticated feel.