Sound Journal

Sound Journal – Shania Sukhu

The role of sound in a film

Sound plays a very significant part in a film and is crucial to reflect and emphasise the events and action taking part in the scenes and create verisimilitude where the sound creates a believable world to the audience. For example, in our short film we included a fast paced soundtrack when our protagonist, Suki D is rushing around his bedroom preparing for the escort, Lady Candy’s arrival. The fast paced sound emphasises the idea that Suki D is against time and is under pressure to get ready.

What did the role of sound involve?

As I took on the role of sound within our production I had to look for a range of different soundtracks and sound effects to include in the background of the film. I began by looking at similar comedy film to our production, ‘Big Boy’ soundtracks, such as American Pie, Sex Tape and The To Do List to develop my ideas about what sounds are typically included. I then began searching for different sounds using Google and Youtube. I also had to look for sound effects, such as sexual sounds and the typing of a keyboard that could be synchronised with the actions when shown on screen. This required a lot of patience and team work as I had to search through a variety of different sounds before finding the perfect ones and I also had to ensure the director was also content with the sounds that I had found to incorporate into our short film. After being satisfied with the sounds I had found I then had to convert them into mp3 files using online convertor websites so that I could transfer them to the editor who could then import and sync them into our production. After, the director and I decided we wanted in incorporate voiceover into our production to make it more interesting and humorous. Therefore, I had to then create a script and record the voiceover which I could then give to the editor to edit into our film.

Were any problems encountered?

Thankfully I did not encounter many problems whilst taking on this role; however, I did encounter one main problem which was finding sounds that synchronised well with the action shown on screen. For example, it was very difficult to find a typing keyboard sound that synchronised well with the speed at which Suki D pressed the keys. However, to resolve this problem I realised I had to search more specifically, for example ‘slow keyboard typing’ to find sound that would sync with the actions on screen.

What has taking on the role of sound person taught me?

Taking on the role of sound has extended my knowledge and understanding of how important and fundamental sound is in order to create a successful film. I was previously unaware of this as I have mainly taken on roles as the director and cameraperson in the past and have therefore not been able to focus heavily on the importance of sound. I learnt that it is incredibly important to make sure the correct and suitable sounds are chosen as this can really emphasise the actions shown on screen and make the overall film much more enjoyable to the audience.