Learning Thriller Spy Films Through Film Techniques- Alejandra A.

Research Focus

One of the main areas that I researched for this stage of the project was how filmmakers create suspense in thriller spy films, and the specific techniques that they use, whether that be related to the cameras and their angles and shots, or editing, or sound. As the style that I intend to focus upon and create is that of a spy thriller, I felt that it was important to research this element.

Camera Framing and Composition

There are many different types of shots within this genre that are used to emphasize emotion or to communicate information to the audience, often even without being direct. For instance, there are close up shots that are often used to emphasize the nervous expression on a character’s face to demonstrate that something might be wrong. There are also over the shoulder shots that are often used when characters are interacting, especially if there’s uncertain trust between the characters. Finally, there are wide shots that are often used to isolate the character within a large space to emphasize their vulnerability.

Camera Angles and Shots

The film will also use low angle shots to show the characters to be dominant or intimidating. The opposite effect will be seen for high angle shots. Another crucial scene will be the point-of-view shots. These shots spy on the character and enable the audience to feel like they’re also spying on them. 

Reaction shots are also used heavily in this film genre. These scenes do not show action but show the character responding to something, so spy thrillers use this to create suspense.

Editing Techniques 

Spy thrillers usually employ slow pacing and long takes to create tension. Fast cuts are only used in moments of peak stress or urgency. Cross cutting is also an important technique. By cutting between two concurrent events, editors create suspense by indicating that a confrontation is about to happen. The editors also withhold information, using delayed reveals to create intrigue.

Sound & Audio Design

While looking at thriller spy films, sound plays a major role. The types of sounds are not always noticeable to the audience, but they help make the audience feel a certain way when watching the film. Some of the sounds include silence, when there is minimal dialogue, or even when there are low sounds that can indicate there is a level of danger present in the scene. Many of these are part of the film’s soundtrack, but other parts belong within the scene.

How This Research Helps My Project

This helps with the film because it shows how suspense is created in spy thriller films, often through film techniques, even if very little happens. Since my film is short, it shows me that suspense can be created through film techniques without the need for complex effects.

Sources:

Binder, Studio. “What Is a Thriller Genre? Definition, Elements, and Examples.” StudioBinder, https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/thriller-genre/. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.

“Spy Film.” Encyclopaedia Britannica, Encyclopaedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/art/spy-film. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.