La tension narrative au cinéma : articulations et mécanismes du suspense
This thesis focuses on the mecanisms and narrative tools used in suspense and thriller films. The first chapter analyzes the function of the synecdoche and metonymy and their role in filmic time-space. The presence of danger triggers incertainties for the viewers that are bound to the endangered character. Then, following larger definitions and numerous films such as Jaws and The Matrix, the second chapter tries to find recurring thematic and aesthetic elements. The purpose of this approach is to legitimate a genre that might not be one. Finally, the third and last chapter, introduces the creative part of this work. A screenplay, The Perfect Seasons (Les saisons parfaites), a psychological suspense, is inspired by Darren Aronofsky’s Black Swan and Claude Chabrol’s L’enfer.  This thesis asks how does work narrative tension in films and how is it possible to define suspense as a genre? Does this genre exists? If so, why is it important to study it?
Suspense Tension Synecdoche Metonymy Genre Screenplay Narration Cinema