Character Types in Thriller Genre

Character Types in thriller Genre

Can be outlined for the character ideals by Vladimir Propp.

The Protagonist - Usually the 'hero'. They face death, whether is be his/hers or somebody else's. The main storyline usually involves either a quest/mission or a character that cannot be put down (villain). The plotline often focuses on a mystery that must be solved, and the narrative is usually from the protagonist's point of view. E.g. Batman.

The antagonist/The force - Usually the 'villain'. This character is at first cleverer or stronger than the antagonist, and is a 'force to be reckoned with'. E.g. The Joker.

Both of these characters are more than likely to battle, whether it each other or themselves, both physically and mentally.

Either by accident or their own curiousness, each character is dragged into a dangerous conflict or situation that they are not prepared to resolve.

Damsel in Distress - Often a female character, they are often put in danger by the antagonist and the hero must save them. The hero is often put in a compromising position while attempting to save the damsel, e.g. save the damsel or save the city. Can also be seen as the Princess/Prize and her father. The hero deserves her throughout the story but is unable to marry her because of an unfair evil (usually the villain). The hero's journey is often ended when he marries the princess, and therefore beating the villain. E.g. Lois Lane.

The Dispatcher — character who makes the lack known and sends the hero off.

The Helper — helps the hero in their quest. Often magical.

The Donor — prepares the hero or gives the hero some magical object.

The false hero — takes credit for the hero’s actions or tries to marry the princess.


An example of Propp's theory in film is in 'Blade 2'.
Hero - Blade.


Villain - depraved and ‘experimented on’ vampire.

The dispatcher, the donor and the helper - friend and mentor 'whistler.

False Hero - Human who pretends to be on Blade's side but is secretly working with the 'baddies'.

The princess/prize - defeating all of the bad vampires.

Written by Georgia DeBranco-Chessum.