Panoptical forms in thriller films.

Surveillance, as a phenomenon, is connected to the power and control of the surveyor towards the surveyed subjects who suffer from isolation. According to this perspective, this paper strengthens the essence of surveillance in thriller films and explores the different panoptical forms. It represents each form according to its effect on the viewer's engagement and embodiment by relating it to the logic of existence discussed by Merleau-Ponty. It also explores the form(s) that represent(s) the 'docile-body-viewer'. The researchers find out that the 'docile-body-viewer' can be created by 'sensorial transparency' first, then by the 'Labyrinth-like spaces' depending on the way it is shot. The other panoptical forms discussed in this study show that the viewer suffers from anxiety, attention, shock and surprise while empathising and sympathising with the protagonist. In general, all these forms increase the embodiment of the viewer, her/his corporeality and consciousness. Finally, the paper shows how Foucault's idea of the Heterotopia is very helpful to define surveillance as a situation that has the ability to increase the embodiment and body corporeality of the viewer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]