Sound

Another significant factor in the film is the use of sound, which in a powerful way affects the protagonist and the viewer. Planning sound is as important as planning images. The audio consists of multiple layers grouped to form the soundbed.

Sound

Creating Soundscapes

In 'Edge of Seventeen' we see a young girl walk to an elevator and we hear synchronized ‘real sounds’ from the elevator, which is on the way up. Suddenly the elevator doors open by themselves and we become aware that something is wrong. As soon as the girl steps into the elevator, the soundscape takes over.

The Soundbed

The synchronic real sounds from the elevator slowly grow in volume and become more like scary sound effects. Her fingers’ insistent scratching on the shoulder strap of her backpack sounds much too loud and amplifies the tense situation. At the same time, the more subjective sounds (those that we think are in her head) increase in volume.

We hear quiet whistling and whispering voice(s), speaking to the girl in an insistent manner: ”I know you can hear me. Don’t pretend like you don’t”.

When the doors finally open again, it’s suddenly without the real, naturalistic, sound but instead the sniggering laughter and the voice are heard clearly and creepily, and the wide shot underlines the girl’s lonely position.

Reflect on approaches to film sound you take in your own teaching; which approaches have worked well for you? Make some notes in your Notepad for future reference.

Task

Reflect on approaches to film sound you take in your own teaching; which approaches have worked well for you? Make some notes in your Notepad for future reference.

In film, planning sound is as important as planning images. The audio consists of multiple layers grouped to form the soundbed. In this task we will look at the full SFX of 'Edge of Seventeen' and examine what effect, listening to different layers in isolation has on the film.

Instructions

Click to mute each sound channel to hear how it effects the mood, tension and drama. Write your observations in the notepad below.

Elevator
Effects
Voices

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