AS: What are the techniques that are used commonly in a thriller opening?

In a thriller film, it is common for there to be a lot of action and drama. Therefore in the opening, the techniques are essential to help build suspense and drama for the audience, and to also set a fast pace that is replicative of the action.

Techniques used include:

• Sound bridge to carry suspense and tension from one shot to another
• Emphasis on voice-overs and sounds such a heartbeats in the sound mix
• Establishing shots to set up a scene for the main characters 
• Loud and dramatic music that creates a sense of anticipation for the audience about the film ahead
• Various pans, slow and fast, to set the scene 
• POV shots to position the audience with certain characters, most commonly the conventional male hero
• A fast cutting rate, particularly when the opening involves action
• Emphasis on weapons, usually for the protagonist, to connote power and authority.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epxYm3OouQA .

The above link contains several examples of POV shots to position us with the protagonist. Also places an emphasis on the weapons used by Daniel Craig that help to reinforce his power and establish him as the main character of the film. Moreover, the clip contains flashbacks which are used as an effective way of setting up the film in order to show motives behind behaviour that is taking place in the current clip.