UNDERSTANDING THRILLER AUDIENCES

Examples of Sub-genres of thriller:

• Action thriller

More common in movies than in novels because of the visual appeal of explosions and violence.

E.g. The Bourne Ultimatum / Furious 7 / Spectre / Mission Impossible

• Conspiracy thriller

Protagonist usually confront a large, powerful organization.

E.g. The Da Vinci Code / All the President's Men / Angels & Demons

• Crime thriller

Focuses on crime, usually from the criminal's point of view.

E.g. Sicario / Legend / The Gunman / Green Room / The Danish Girl

• Mystery thriller

Differs from a regular mystery by being more fast -paced, with the protagonist on the run and the threat of another crime serving as the "ticking clock".

E.g. Knock Knock / The Gift / The Boy Next Door / Crimson Peak / Blackhat

• Psychological thriller

Conflicts are usually mental, rather than physical. Protagonist becomes involved in a sanity threatening situation. They must use mental powers to overcome their opponent.

E.g. We Are What We Are / The East / Maniac / The Conjuring / Gone

• Romantic thriller

Plot line follows a typical thriller's tension, suspense, and excitement, but a main element is the growing relationship between two characters.

E.g. Mr and Mrs Smith / Safe Heaven / Unfaithful / Vertigo / Basic Instinct

• Supernatural thriller

Unnatural elements are introduced, usually as an antagonistic force. The plot line and feel or distinctly that of thrillers. Some characters may have psychic abilities and other supernatural elements may be present.

E.g. The Sixth Sense / Orphan / The Babadook / Sinister / Carrie / Drag Me to Hell