Conventions of Psychological Thrillers and Moodboard

The selection of images I have chosen in my mood board are a variety of shots from the two films 'The Skeleton Key' and 'The Others.' I have chosen these because they all consist of the most vital ingredient in horror and psychological thrillers. Low key lighting. They all show an extreme amount of darkness and dark mis-en-scene. There are also a lot of close ups, extreme close ups and high angled shots used which help to create atmosphere. I also think the image with the crucifix candle is effective as the cross most often represents protection from evil so we are aware that maybe a devil or poltergeist may be in the film. The high angled image of the candles surrounding the woman also suggest that she is trying to protect herself. The light from the candles also create a sinister atmosphere as there is low  key lighting so our eyes may mis judge images as our eyes can play tricks on the mind and exaggerate how scary a monster or situation can be. finally, a telephone is also a very iconic item within the horror genre. As the female character has mascara all over her face, we can tell the she is upset and in discomfort. The use of a phone emphasises that the characters can communicate with others, all if they are in an isolated area then they are completely alone and no one come help them. They are so close, yet so far to reach for help.


Definition of Psychological Thrillers 
Characters are no longer reliant on physical strength to overcome their enemies (which is often the case in typical action-thrillers), but rather are reliant on their mental resources, whether it be by battling wits with a formidable opponent or by battling for equilibrium in the character's own mind. The suspense created by psychological thrillers often comes from two or more characters preying upon one another's minds, either by playing deceptive games with the other or by merely trying to demolish the other's mental state'


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychological_thriller

Conventions Of Thrillers

• Lots of darkness, low key lighting, contrast in shadows, 
• Quick shots, change in camera angles and montage editing to accentuate action
• Withholds back story information to keep audience engaged
• Common elements in psychological thrillers are mind games, stalking, obsession, psychological themes, deathtraps, change in personality, murder
• Music that increases tension
• iconography and locations of thrillers are old mansions, isolated areas, misty or dark places set at night as this is when people feel most vulnerable, stairways, mirrors, death, flashbacks.
• Disorientation of time and space