Research 1: Thriller Conventions
In class we watched Episode 1, Season 1 of the Apple TV Show ‘Severance’. This show is classified as a thriller and follows the narrative of a man named Mark who undergoes a procedure that separates his work and personal memories, creating tension between his two identities.
In this episode, we see key typical thriller conventions of suspense, tension, and high stakes. these are shown through the use of eerie music, unexpected plot twists, and a protagonist facing life-threatening danger. In our coursework, we will have the option of producing a thriller film opening, therefore we are researching the genre to help us with our decision.
Severance
Season 1, Episode 1: Good News about Hell
- Make notes on Lacey’s repertoire of elements as you watch the episode.
| Element | Conventions |
| Setting (mise en scene/locations) | Office: The workspaces are plain and dull, with no personal touches. This reinforces the idea that work is separate from personal life |
| Characters (representations, stereotypes, behavior, body language, specific actors/stars) Consider Propps character types. | Mark (Hero) – Emotionally numb outside work, obedient but conflicted inside. Slouched posture reflects struggle. Helly (Rebel/Seeker) – Defiant, resists severance, aggressive body language. |
| Narrative events (how is the narrative ordered and structured? Is it elliptical?) | Cold Open: The episode begins with Helly waking up on the conference table, confused and questioned |
| Iconography (well known or recognizable people/objects/buildings/mise en scene/props/costume, setting, symbolic codes) | Character Costumes: The employees at Lumen are dressed in similar, bland corporate attire (uniforms), visually signifying their conformity and lack of individuality.Setting: The sterile, high-tech office environment of Lumon is a key icon, symbolizing a soulless, oppressive corporate world. The clean, symmetrical architecture and dim lighting emphasize control and lack of individuality. Mise en Scene: The conference room, where Helly first wakes up, and the small, stark rooms emphasize the isolation and manipulation of the workers. |
| Style (technical and audio codes e.g. camera use, editing, sound, lighting, color) | Lighting: The high key lighting is harsh and artificial, making everything feel unnatural and mechanical (no shadows), like they are locked away from the outside world. This creates a sense of unease and highlights the dystopian setting. |
- Make notes on the following Macro elements as you watch.
| Story Arcs within the episode: make note of which are resolved by the end of the episode, and which will continue into the season. | Mark takes over Petey’s role. Helly completes her questionnaire. The story arcs are resolved, such as Mark taking over Petey’s role and Helly completing her questionnaire. However, important arcs remain unresolved, like Helly’s resistance to severance, Mark’s struggle with his dual identity, and the mystery of Petey’s disappearance. The control Lumon exerts over its employees and if they can escape. |
| Todorov’s Narrative Theory: In what ways does his theory apply (or not apply) to this episode. | Todorov’s narrative theory follows a five-stage structure: Equilibrium – A stable, normal world.Disruption – Something unsettles the balance.Recognition – The protagonist realizes the problem.Attempt to Repair – Actions are taken to fix it.New Equilibrium – A new state of stability forms. Equilibrium (Outside Work) – Mark’s normal life: grieving his wife, working at Lumon.Disruption – Helly wakes up in Lumon, confused and resistant. Mark is promoted after Petey’s sudden disappearance.Recognition – Mark and Helly both question the severance process. |
| Binary Oppositions: list and explain the oppositions present in the episode. How is this adding to narrative conflict? | Work vs. Personal Life – The severance procedure creates a complete separation, driving tension between the “Innie” and “Outie” selves. Freedom vs. Control – Helly’s resistance clashes with Lumon’s strict rules, creating conflict. Obedience vs. Rebellion – Mark follows the system, while Helly fights against it, highlighting different responses to oppression. |
| Themes: What themes can you identify in the episode and how are these being portrayed so far? | Isolation & Grief – Mark’s outside life is lonely and sorrowful, contrasting with his artificial detachment at work.Identity – The severance procedure splits employees into two versions of themselves, raising questions about autonomy and consciousness. |
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This exquisite compilation showcases a diverse array of photographs that capture the essence of different eras and cultures, reflecting the unique styles and perspectives of each artist. Fleckenstein’s evocative imagery, Strand’s groundbreaking modernist approach, and Kōno’s meticulous documentation of Japanese life come together in a harmonious blend that celebrates the art of photography. Each image in “The Stories Book” is accompanied by insightful commentary, providing historical context and revealing the stories behind the photographs. This collection is not only a visual feast but also a tribute to the power of photography to preserve and narrate the multifaceted experiences of humanity.
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This exquisite compilation showcases a diverse array of photographs that capture the essence of different eras and cultures, reflecting the unique styles and perspectives of each artist.
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This exquisite compilation showcases a diverse array of photographs that capture the essence of different eras and cultures, reflecting the unique styles and perspectives of each artist.
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This exquisite compilation showcases a diverse array of photographs that capture the essence of different eras and cultures, reflecting the unique styles and perspectives of each artist.
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This exquisite compilation showcases a diverse array of photographs that capture the essence of different eras and cultures, reflecting the unique styles and perspectives of each artist.