This document discusses different types of sound that can be used in films, including diegetic sound that comes from within the scene like car sounds or music playing on a radio, and non-diegetic sound added in post-production like background music or sound effects. It also defines techniques for building tension with sound, such as using a crescendo to gradually increase the volume to imply something is about to happen, or a diminuendo to reduce volume and release tension once a threat has passed. Motifs of particular sounds or music are also discussed as cues to signal events to the audience.

1. Sound

2. Diegetic Sound
• Sound that comes through the scene
• E.g. Car sound, Wind, Music, Radio, Voices.
• Example – Touch of evil (opening scene)

3. Non Diegetic Sound
• Sound put on in a film, during post-
production.
• E.g. Music, Sound effects, crescendo.
• Some characters have a theme – Jaws - the
shark

4. Crescendo
• Builds up of sound, that will imply that
something is going to happen.
Diminuendo
• Music/Sound died down as if the treat has
gone away.

5. Sforzando
• A short, sharp, loud noise, often used to
emphasis shock or fear.

6. X files
• Crescendo – to show the killer is coming.
• Motif – Plucked strings. When the strings are
played you know the killer is coming.
• Diminuendo – to lose the tension of the killer
being there.