Contextual studies Sound

Contextual Studies - Sound

Today's lecture with Louis was about sound. We talked about how important sound is, that the importance varies depending on what you're making and what mood you want to give.

Function of sound

Aural narrative
Sonic ambience (mood, atmosphere, sound effects)
Emotional or intellectual resonance or dissonance (music)

Use of  sound effects
 Heighten drama - abstract or enhanced effects designed to affect audience perception or emotional state = audible heartbeats in horror films)
Simulate reality - ambient background that underscores and reinforces unity of Mise en scene and editing =traffic noise, chatter, room tone)

key elements of film sound
 Speech (dialogue, narration)
Ambient or natural sound
Sound effects
Musical score or soundtrack.

Music is narrative device
 Music underscored or accentuates visual narrative, emotion or drama
Can create emotional or intellectual resonance or dissonance.
Use of leitmotifs: a short, recurring musical  associated with a particular person, place or idea such as Jaws theme, Darth Vader's march in Star Wars and others.