Tash's Analysis of the Four Technical Codes in the 'Usual Suspects'

Tash -Analysis of the use of four technical codes in the opening of the thriller film: The Usual Suspects

In the opening of The Usual Suspects there are various technical codes used to construct the visual style of the thriller film. For instance, at the very beginning of the film there is an extreme close-up shot of one of the characters holding some matches and proceeding to light them. This suggests to the spectators that fire is a key element in the sequence, the action of the matches being lit is backed up with a possible foley sound effect which emphasises the use of fire. The character then proceeds to drop the lit matches where the camera uses a high angle to show the fire spreading through the area. This suggests that the location this scene is taking place in is not of high value to him and is set in a remote area as he is so carelessly letting a naked flame engulf itself onto its surroundings. This is a stereotypical setting for a thriller film.

As the fire spreads throughout the area spectators are presented with an eye level view of the ever-growing fire while a dead body lies near it on the floor. The composition of this shot reveals to the viewers that this area is dangerous but also create a sense of enigma as they will be left feeling confused and curious to why there is a dead body in the opening of the film. The use of this particular camera angle makes the shot more personal as we the spectators are literally eye level with the dead body.

 As we are introduced to the character of Kaiser the camera focuses on his footsteps through a point of view shot suggesting to the viewers that this is all the other character can see of Keiser at this point in the film. When analysing Kaiser, the camera never reveals his face causing the audience to feel curious, otherwise known as enigma. However, the mid close-up of Kaiser does reveal that he is wearing a long black coat; symbolising the mysterious and in some ways evil personality that is Kaiser. His body language also appears to be very controlled and relaxed suggesting that he has the power in this situation.

As the scene progresses Kaiser pulls out a gun and aims it at the other character however, the camera jump cuts to an establishing shot causing their to be an off screen gunshot. This then creates enigma amongst the spectators as they have no idea if Kaiser shot the other character or not, causing them to be actively involved in what is being presented. This is then exaggerated with parallel background music playing which increases to crescendo. The camera then goes back to the area where the action is taking place but it only shows a close up of Kaiser lighting a cigarette in slow motion; again, emphasising the usage of fire in this film opening. After the gunshot has taken place, pathetic fallacy is used via a thunderstorm; therefore relating to the mood of the scene.

Another iconic method used in this film to convey the genre of thriller is low key lighting. This type of lighting used sets the mood and atmosphere of the entire sequence and causes the setting to have a chiaroscuro effect.

All of these various types of iconography is what denotes to the spectators that this film is a thriller film.