Uses and Gratifications

In 1974 two theorists, Blumler and Katz developed a theory on Uses and Gratifications. This theory suggested that the audience use media texts for various reasons:

Diversion (escapism):
To escape from everyday life. Our thriller would help the audience to do this as the film would not raise any issues surrounding everyday life, but provide escapism for the viewer. Although there are moments of horror, it would not be sufficient to get deeply engrossed into any particular subject.

Personal Relationships (Social interaction):
Using the media text for emotional and other interaction, for example substituting soap operas for everyday life. Our film would be aimed at a variety of ages, attracting groups of people, drawing social interaction. The film would also provide mutual talking points, as the audience decide on who should be blamed for the downfall- the protagonist or the antagonist.

Personal Identity:
Create their own identity from characters/celebrities in media texts, and learning behaviors and values. The audience will be able to interact with the main character of our thriller, as he posses many qualities, some of which should be avoided, helping the audience to sympathize with his flaws.

Entertainment:
As a means of relaxation, enjoyment and emotional release. Purely for the 'fun' of the experience. Our thriller would be perfect for entertainment as it has the stereotypical hero vs villain, and has elements of shock and horror.

Surveillance:
To gain information or knowledge.