Sound researchBY RHYDIAN CRABB

Types of soundContrapuntal

sound: where the sounds

or music used contrast with the film or movie clip

it has been inserted into.

Parallel sound:sounds which we

expect to hear within that

specific genre

Diegetic sound: sound presented as originated from

source within the film's world

Non diegetic sound:Sound represented as coming from a

source outside story space.

Examples The opening to Jaws created a lot of suspense and tension through the use of its music. It told the audience the genre of the film.

However, when different music is played on top of it, it creates a whole other story. It takes a normal sinister dangerous moment and turns it into a joyous fun moment.

Click on the image, to see the opening to Jaws

using parallel sound.

Sounds I may useAn alarm suddenly coming on

Heavy breathing

A crow calling

Loud footsteps

Unsettling Laughter

The sound of an email coming into his computer

Train going past when looking out the window The image above shows the moment the sound of the email comes in whilst I am on the computer. The makes it clear that I have received this email, but also fits the genre as the sudden noise and my surprised reaction will unsettle the audience.

Examples

Click on the image to hear the sound of a crow calling. I will use this because it is a common

theme in thrillers as hearing a crow calling is very unsettling and creppy.

Click on the image, to hear the sound of a heartbeat. This suggests that something is

happening to make the character worried or stressed. It could also suggest that this is the last time this persons heart will beat again.

Evaluation of soundSound is extremely important in all genres, but it is most important in the thriller genre as within this genre sound can easily change the audiences emotions and feelings, which is the key to making a good film.

Parallel sound can be used to create suspense and tension. It further illustrates the action that is on the screen. Certain sounds are associated with thrillers, thus parallel sound conforms to the conventions.

Contrapuntal sound can be used to create an eerie tone and are effective in psychological thrillers. For example; if someone is re telling a story of a sad time there might be happy music playing over the flashback to create contrast.

Non diegetic sound is effective to create dramatic irony. Letting the audience hear and know something that the character doesn’t know, keeps them engaged and allows them to feel empathetic towards the characters.