The sound employed in the opening of this thriller has a significant impact on the viewing of the film by providing the audience with a greater understanding of the narrative. The sounds used evokes a response from the audience by reflecting the characters' emotions as well as emphasising certain occurrences in the scene. Their effectiveness can be recognised by the tension and suspense they are able to build. Within the scene, techniques such as diagetic, non-diagetic, parallel sounds, on and off screen sounds have been employed.
As the protagonist walks towards the bathroom, non diegetic sound can be identified through the form of a background sound track. It is a calm and subtle yet eerie sound that infers the intensity of the atmosphere. The tension causes the audience to be more aware of potential occurrences. It is also used to convey the character's emotions which in this case involves fear and nervousness. The music then intensifies in volume as the character is seen reaching towards the door which signifies danger to the audience. It creates expectations for the audience who would assume of someone's presence. The sense of mystery created by the music can be associated with the antagonist.
Non diegetic off screen sound can also be noticed when the sound of wind is heard. It creates a cold intense feeling that heightens the helplessness and fear of the protagonist. This is a generic convention of a thriller film as it creates an enigma for the audience which may also associate the sound with the antagonist's presence without him being revealed. A hidden villain is stereotypical of the thriller genre as it creates an enigma as well as providing anticipation.
Diegetic sound can also be identified in the opening scene when the light switch is pressed on. This adds further impact to the soundtrack which has a purpose of building up tension. The sound of the light switch adds an essence of realism that the audience is able to relate to. This compliments the flickering of the light which creates further tension and suspense. Diegetic sound is used throughout the scene such as when the character portrayed as the victim enters the bathroom. This makes the scene more real to the audience allowing them to relate to the events as well as conjuring up a fear of it happening to them. This sound can also be classed as parallel as it works in unison with the movement of the character.
Non diegetic off screen sound can also be noticed when the sound of wind is heard. It creates a cold intense feeling that heightens the helplessness and fear of the protagonist. This is a generic convention of a thriller film as it creates an enigma for the audience which may also associate the sound with the antagonist's presence without him being revealed. A hidden villain is stereotypical of the thriller genre as it creates an enigma as well as providing anticipation.
Diegetic sound can also be identified in the opening scene when the light switch is pressed on. This adds further impact to the soundtrack which has a purpose of building up tension. The sound of the light switch adds an essence of realism that the audience is able to relate to. This compliments the flickering of the light which creates further tension and suspense. Diegetic sound is used throughout the scene such as when the character portrayed as the victim enters the bathroom. This makes the scene more real to the audience allowing them to relate to the events as well as conjuring up a fear of it happening to them. This sound can also be classed as parallel as it works in unison with the movement of the character.
As the opening sequence progresses, further diegetic sound is used in the form of the protagonist's heavy breathing. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it infers the protagonist's panic and fear. This allows the audience to experience the emotions felt by the woman; almost making them feel like they're placed in her situation. This evokes anticipation as the viewers are put on edge.
This research has provided me with knowledge regarding the conventional sounds used in thrillers. It has also developed my understanding of the different types of sound and the effect they have on the scene. This has provided me with ideas in regards to choosing a suitable soundtrack and sounds that will create tension and build up suspense to give the viewing of the film a greater impact.
You have made a good start in explaining how a variety of sounds were used in the scene above. You have identified a variety of sounds and you have also considered the examples well too.
ReplyDeleteTo develop your analysis you need to considered the codes and conventions of a thriller in more detail. You also need to include a summary to explain how your research will assist you with planning your own thriller