Protagonist in danger: The main character of a thriller is often in danger or facing some kind of threat, whether it be from a villain, a natural disaster, or a psychological disturbance.
Sense of urgency: Thrillers often have a sense of urgency or time pressure, with the protagonist racing against the clock to solve a mystery or prevent a disaster.
Red herrings: Thrillers often include red herrings, or misleading clues, to keep the audience guessing and to add to the suspense.
Plot twists: Unexpected twists and turns in the plot are a common feature of thrillers, often keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
Psychological tension: Thrillers often use psychological tension to create suspense, exploring the fears and anxieties of the characters and the audience.
Villains: Thrillers often feature a villain or antagonist who is responsible for the protagonist's danger or the threat that they are facing.
Action sequences: While not essential, many thrillers include action sequences to heighten the suspense and excitement.
Cinematography and editing: The cinematography and editing in thrillers often contribute to the atmosphere of suspense, using lighting, camera angles, and editing techniques to create a sense of unease and tension.
Music: The music in thrillers often plays an important role in setting the mood and atmosphere, building tension and adding to the sense of danger or excitement.
Resolution: Thrillers typically end with a resolution of the conflict or threat that the protagonist has been facing, often with a satisfying conclusion.
These codes and conventions are not set in stone and there is plenty of room for variation and creativity within the thriller genre, but these elements are often found in many thrillers to create suspense, tension, and excitement for the audience.