Sound presentation

Sound in film

Why is sound important in film?Although film is mostly a visual medium, sound is one of the most important factors in creating a successful film. Successful sound in film means for an enhanced experience for the audience.Music in films, such as scores and soundtracks help direct the audience to the preferred emotions and atmosphere that is intended by the director.The Academy Awards offer awards to the following sound related categories: Best Original Song, Best Original Score, Sound editing and Sound mixing

History of sound in filmIn 1923 inventor Le De Forest invented phonofilm, in which music was recorded on a narrow strip on the edge of the physical film.In 1926 the first full length feature film that contained a musical score was released, it was titled Don Juan and was produced by Warner Bros.Before sound was introduced into film text and dialogue was presented on screen in form of a title screen.

Diegetic SoundDiegetic sound is whose source is visible on screen, or source is implied to be present by the action of the film. Examples: Voices of character (Dialogue)Sounds made by objects in the scene. (Visual sound effects)

Non-Diegetic SoundNon-Diegetic Sound is sound that is not present in the scene or implied within the sceneIs represented as coming from a source away from the main narrativeExamples: ScoreSoundtrackVoiceover

DialogueEssential to the narrativeA conversation between two or more people within a filmGives information and context to what is occurring in the scene

VoiceoverSometimes know as commentary Placed over the top of scenes Provides information to the narrativeUsually given by a character in the film

ScoreA Score is original music composed to accompany a film.Played in the background of scene(s)Also known as incidental music.Used to heighten emotions and create tension.Score usually compliments action happening on screen.

SoundtrackSoundtrack is recorded music played over a clip or scene to create an effectNot originally composed for the filmSoundtrack can be a mix of songs (Guardians of the Galaxy)

SoundbridgeWhen a scene begins with sound carried over from a previous sceneLinks to scenes together for cohesive story telling

Sound effectsA sound that is artificially played within the scene Added in post production Are diegetic

Ambient soundAmbient sound is background sound within a scene which are present in a setting or location.Common ambient sounds are office sounds, birds, wind, crowds and traffic.