An Introduction to Thrillers

Thrillers, What are they?

A thriller is a genre in television, films and literature which uses the technique of suspense and tension to create excitement for their audience. Thrillers are often fast paced as they make the audience moods and giving them a sense of anticipation getting them anxious for what will happen as well as surprising them. This type of genre also has many sub genres with similar characteristics which represent various themes.

'A thriller is supposed to keep the reader or viewer on edge with suspenseful and sensational action'. -Wise Geek

Many people would often confuse a Thriller film for Horror.  However these two genres are closely related they are still very distinct. Horror films will be more graphic, the audience will feel fear and disgust compared to Thrillers which will create tension and suspense for the audience. Audience members however expect suspense from both genres.

Features of  Thrillers

Many features in thrillers are used to add and create effect in the narrative and keep the audience engaged at all times. Some of theses features are:

• Anticipation
• Anxiety
• Enigmas (mystery)
• Intense Excitement 
• Plot Climax
• Suspense
• Tension

The main characters in thrillers are usually placed in very menacing situations where escaping was almost impossible. The protagonist unaware is often placed in a dangerous situation. this greats irony as the audience is unaware of this and it leaves the audience wondering what will happen to the protagonist. the menace (antagonist) of the thriller is abstract, uncertain and shady making it harder to spot who they are.