1. is common with rich people and criminals.
Location
The airport is a typical location for a thriller as international travel
is common with rich people and criminals.
The crowded area is common for chase scenes.
LA, the city where the film is based, is
typical of the genre as it is a big city. Big cities relate
to audiences, being common locations for most people and are
common in thrillers.
A sign with “Terminals” and “Flights” written on, purposely noticeable.

2. Lighting
The airport is brightly lit suggesting that there is nothing suspicious going on
with the characters and they are just normal people going about their day.
The taxi rank contrasts the airport a little bit, being a bit dark and dingy.
Airports are bright locations which suggests Vincent is trying to act like he doesn’t
have anything to hide.

3. Costume
Vincent is wearing sunglasses indoors, suggesting he doesn't want people to know
his identity and recognise him, it is also a sign of importance.
The suit has him automatically recognised as someone rich, especially a rich
business man.
Max wears casual clothing as he doesn't need to wear anything special to
do his job. His attire also suggests he isn't rich like Vincent, a contrast.

4. Props
The briefcase automatically identifies him as someone important, meant to be
seen as a business man. They are typical of the genre when the film
involves rich criminals or even police.
Max has a photo of a dream location, where he wishes to be one day as motivation,
again this is showing a contrast between the characters.

5. Shots
Different shots are used for different purposes in thrillers.
In Collateral, there is a wide range used just in the opening.
Here is a close up shot of Vincent as
he gets closer towards us, allowing us to see
his expression on his face.
An over the shoulder shot which is usually used
in dialogue but in this case it is used in place
of a POV shot, allowing us to see almost what
the main character is seeing.