The use of clocks

Clocks

Due to the fact that our thriller is based on the theme of clocks, I thought I would research into how clocks are used in other films (mainly thrillers) so I can learn their codes and conventions and then we can use them in our film.

The first thriller that I looked at was actually from a television series called 24. The film is set in real time and they have 24 hours to complete their mission. The clock ticks continuously throughout the whole series, which is spread over 24, one hour episodes. Below is a video of the use of clockwork in this programme. Unfortunately there is an added bit on the end, which does not happen normally, but it is the best video I could find!

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As you can see from this clip, a dramatic, monotonous sound is used on each second. The display is also very bland, using only two colours and no background. Using this method adds effect because the audience is focusing primarily on the clock digits, and nothing else. The sound also makes each second seem a whole lot more, which to the characters, is realistic, as a second can be vital!



My next video is a short montage of films that use the phrase "The clock is ticking". I have included this film to really exaggerate how much a 'clock' theme is used in thriller films ... Enjoy.

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As made really evident, clocks are an essential part to a thriller film, both backing up our reasoning for choosing the theme of clocks, and also shows us different ways to deliver the line!