Physiological Thrillers

We discussed specific conventions that contribute towards the structure of physiological thrillers.

• Central theme of identity- mistaken identity, stolen identity, lost identity (amnesia), dual identity, dopple-gangers.
• Perception- often the narrative is shown from the perspective of multiple characters.
• Reality- confusion between what is and isn't real. The main characters idea of reality is different to the norm establishment within the film.
• Memory- the torture of an individual by a traumatic memory. The traumatic search for a lost memory.
• Stream of consciousness- the viewer is invited to identify with the physce of a particular character. 
• Unreliable narrator- the person telling us the story is discovered to be untrustworthy. This unnerves the viewer.
•  Flashbacks, reversing and fast forwarding of events- non linear narrative.
• Imagery- the eye is a regular visual motif.