Film Language: Thrillers

Every different genre of film will have its own conventions which help us to identify what type of film it will be. Film language is a big part of this as the scene is set, props in place and actors ready - these features help to foreshadow what's to come.
So what features do we see in thrillers?
Themes:
- action
- violence
- horror
- tension/suspense/shock

Camerawork:
- slanted camera angles
- tilt shots to show disorientation
- angled shots
- extreme close-ups to show fear


Editing:
You could use:
A straight cut which is most used in any editing/films
A fade-out to show time passing
A dissolve which is the blending of two scenes creating a linking sense in the story
A wipe cut; but these are rarely used
or finally a jump cut to draw the audiences attention and create tension/disorientation as an object/character is brought to our focus attention

Lighting:
Normally low key lighting would be used to create shadows and give a chiaroscuro effect to create a dark foreboding effect. However high key lighting may be used to create a contrapuntal effect by having a normal setting which is more effective as it's more realistic.


Sound/music:
Something minor or discordant sounding  to add suspense/uneasiness and prepare the audience for what is to come or to mislead into a sense of security using contrapuntal music to contrast the events to come.
For example one of the most famous pieces of film music of all time is in Psycho in the famous 'shower scene'