Genre Research: Bird Box

According to Rotten Tomatoes, "When a mysterious force decimates the world's population, only one thing is certain: if you see it, you take your life. Facing the unknown, Malorie finds love, hope and a new beginning only for it to unravel. Now she must flee with her two children down a treacherous river to the one place left that may offer sanctuary. But to survive, they'll have to undertake the perilous two-day journey blindfolded." Throughout the movie various camera angles and movements are utilized to create a suspenseful plot. For example, various "birds eye view" shots are used to demonstrate the characters lack of situational awareness as well their lack of ability to identify their location. As another example, various wide shots are used to establish the setting of each of scenes as well as the mysterious creatures that lurk everywhere they go. For example, in the river scene a wide shot is used to captivate the whole surroundings of the main characters, while in the movie they have a lack of understanding of where they are going. Another important aspect of the movie is the mis-en-scene, such as the costumes, lighting, actors, makeup, props, and settings. The costumes in the movie, such as the faded pink puffy jacket, belt, and boots demonstrates the main characters ability to adapt in the wilderness and their current situation. The lightning has dark and gloomy color, to keep the audience on edge. The makeup used is meant to create a sense of uncleanliness to signify the main characters being outdoors. Also, the actors are meant to resemble a family unit (minus a father) as they work together to try and survive, despite the children's' youth. Finally the props and settings are meant to resemble a post apocalyptic society. The setting is overgrown wilderness with deserted houses and cities, and the main characters use props/tools such as blindfolds, flashlights, and other survival gear. Furthermore, another important aspect of this film and thriller genre is the sound used. The movie has a very frightening and suspenseful sound track, which at certain scenes makes the audience worried for the protagonists. The dialogue between characters also contributes to their fear regarding their safety. Finally, the editing contributes to keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. For instance, there are many shot-reverse-shots between the protagonists on their journey and the monsters lurking in the bushes. However, the monsters are never actually shown it is just implied due to the camera angles and sound.

Overall, the movie "Bird Box," follows the conventions and codes of the thriller genre. Despite having an interesting plot structure, the movie makes use of suspenseful scenes, dynamic points of views, an antagonist stronger than the protagonist, loud sound effects, and amazing mis-en-scene. These elements all help to contribute to the movies suspenseful and thrilling tone. This tone leaves audiences worrying for the protagonist and what will happen next. Bird Box makes use of many elements that I enjoy in thrillers as the suspenseful plot structure, loud sound effects, interesting mis-en-scene, and dynamic points of view. However, there are some elements of the movie that I do not like. The audience is kept in the dark a lot regarding the antagonist and its origins as well as the lack of action packed scenes that can be found in other thrillers. Overall, Bird Box is an interesting movie to say the least and may be useful in producing my Final Task. I would recommend Bird Box to any movie lover that enjoys a good thrill.