What is the definition of 'suspense' in cinematic terms?

In cinematic terms, suspense is defined as the tension and anxiety produced in the audience due to uncertainty in the narrative. This definition captures the emotional experience viewers undergo as they anticipate what will happen next, often involving high stakes and uncertain outcomes for the characters involved.

Suspense is effectively created through various cinematic techniques, such as pacing, music, and editing, which can amplify the feeling of anxiety that grips an audience as they are left questioning the fates of characters or the resolution of a conflict. It engages the viewers emotionally, compelling them to invest in the story and its characters, thus heightening their experience of the film. Understanding suspense is crucial for analyzing how filmmakers design moments that keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making it central to the storytelling process in cinema.