Sub-Genres

Crime thriller-No Country for Old Men

·         This particular genre is a hybrid type of both crime films and thrillers that offers a suspenseful account of a successful or failed crime or crimes. These films often focus on the criminal(s) rather than a policeman. Crime thrillers usually emphasise action over psychological aspects. Central topics of these films include serial killers/murders, robberies, chases, shootouts, heists and double-crosses. This film is a good example of this genre as it focuses on the criminals and is mainly action. 

Psychological thriller-Shutter Island

·         In which (until the often violent resolution) the conflict between the main characters is mental and emotional, rather than physical. This film is a perfect example of a psychological thriller as it uses dreams and hallucinations.

Religious thriller-The Da Vinci Code

·         In which the plot is closely connected to religious objects, institutions and questions. While suspense stories have always shown a significant affinity for religion and philosophical issues. This is a great example of a religious thriller as it uses many artifacts.

Technological thriller-I Robot

·         A suspense film in which the manipulation of sophisticated technology plays a prominent part.

Supernatural thriller-Signs

·         In which the film brings in an otherworldly element mixed with tension, suspense and plot twists. Sometimes the hero and/or villain has some psychic ability.

Rape and Revenge-I Spit On Your Grave

·         Out of the sub-genres of exploitation film, this focuses more on the thriller elements such as suspense, tension, some action and fast-pacing rather than scares and the supernatural.

Conspiracy thriller-Edge of Darkness

·         In which the hero/heroine confronts a large, powerful group of enemies whose true extent only he/she recognizes.

Disaster thriller-2012

·         In which the main conflict is due to some sort of natural or artificial disaster, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanoes, etc., or nuclear disasters as an artificial disaster.

Legal thriller-Michael Clayton

·         In which the lawyer-heroes/heroines confront enemies outside, as well as inside, the courtroom and are in danger of losing not only their cases but their lives.

Medical thriller

·         In which the hero/heroine are medical doctors/personnel working to solve an expanding medical problem.

Mystery thriller-Angels & Demons

·         Suspense films where characters attempt solving, or involved in, a mystery.

Political thriller-The contender

·         In which the hero/heroine must ensure the stability of the government that employs them.