North by Northwest - Analysis

North by Northwest is a good example of a typical thriller as it has all the aspects needed to make up a thriller. Such as a good build up to a dramatic, action scene. This really helps engage the audience as the viewers are constantly being teased with small amounts of action building up to this one large action scene and then they are thrilled by one dramatic sequence. 

One other aspect of this film that is a typical thriller theme is the idea of one person, the protagonist, battling his way against a large amount antagonists that want something from him and in most scenarios want to kill the protagonist. Such as in 'North by Northwest' the antagonists are trying to capture and get information from the main character. Then it leads to them trying to kill the main protagonist.

The plot of this film also contains an unexpected twist at the end that surprises the viewers. [SPOILER] The audience believe that the main protagonist is dead when he gets shot and when the audience find out that he is not dead, it shocks the audience.

Recipe For A Thriller.

There are many factors that make up a thriller and when all of these come together perfectly they make a perfect thriller. Some examples of these techniques are; fast paced action, effective lighting, quick and dramatic camera angles and many more.

Thrillers also typically follow a basic, generic plot, one where there is a powerful and well equipped villain that has to be defeated by a less well equipped hero. This is a good plot to follow as it is sure to always keep the audience engaged and can be altered in many ways. This is good as it will always keep thriller movies fresh and new as there will always be new twists and unexpected turns.

The Birds Film Review

The cast of this film was Tippi Hedren (her very first feature film). It also starred Rod Taylor, Jessica Tandy, Suzanne Pleshette and a young Veronica Cartwright. 

The cast of this film was Tippi Hedren (her very first feature film). It also starred Rod Taylor, Jessica Tandy, Suzanne Pleshette and a young Veronica Cartwright. 

Tippy Hendron

"The Birds" is a thriller/horror film, made in 1963, it was directed by Alfred Hitchcock, this film was based on the novel "The Birds" written in 1952 by Daphne du Maurier. It is set in Bodega Bay, California. Where for no apparent reason all of the birds in the area turn against the people of the hamlet with no mercy.

The screen writer was Evan Hunter. Hitchcock told him to develop new characters and a more elaborate plot, keeping Du Maurier's idea of unexplained and unprovoked bird attacks.

The film follows a very typical thriller story line, with fast paced action, suspense and mystery. The film, lays down a clear, calm story line without any hint of what is going to happen, this leave the audience in suspense and wonder as to what is going to happen. 

Hitchcock also uses sound very well in this film to add suspense and tension. Some examples of this are the sound of the birds wings fluttering and the birds cawing as they attack their victim. This helps add to the thrill factor as it immerses the viewer in the film and brings the fright into reality.