Codes and conventions of psychological thriller

History of Psychological Thriller

Iconic Horror Directors

Alfred Hitchcock

Alfred Hitchcock is a well known horror director, famous for “Psycho”(1960) and “Notorious” (1946). Also known as “The Master of Suspense” he uses a device called the “MacGuffin” which is an object used to keep the plot moving. Not only did he produce horrors, he produced comedies and musicals using his techniques across each genre.

Hitchcock's first nine films were all silent movies meaning he had to create a visual language, so that he could be successful without dielect. Once sound was introduced in 1927 many directors felt that something was lost in cinemas. Therefore the mise-en-scene became very important to Hitchcock as he wanted to continue having no sound and using it only when it was necessary. For example, when we think of "Psycho" we generally remember the famous shower scene before we think of any quotes from his other films or "Psycho".

Wes Craven

Wes Craven is another director who has directed a number of films such as “A nightmare on Elm Street” and “Scream” which won MTV’s 1996 Best Movie Award. He wanted the films to be as realistic as possible by having the characters quote already made films shown in “Scream”.

Wes Craven has worked with horror making it innovative and challenging audiences with bold visions. Craven has shown to audiences that he is a filmmaker with heart, guts and humour.

"A lot of life is dealing with your curse, dealing with the cards you were given that aren't so nice. Does it make you into a monster, or can you temper it in some way, or accept it and go in some other direction?"

Iconic Thriller Sounds