Research into target audiences

The content of a film depends on whether it would be suitable for its audience.

Thrillers:

• Aim is to keep audience on the edge of their seats
• Use loud, anticipating music
• Fast, sharp camera shots
• Close-ups
• Unexpected events
• Loads of editing 
• Falling objects in scenes
• Gloomy weather
• Strange noises
• Action packed
• Characters running

Since inception is a sci-fi thriller, I think its target audience is predominately aimed at males aged between 16 and 40. This is because it is an action packed movie, however the plot and the idea appeal to both genders.