This document discusses different types of sound that can be used in films, including contrapuntal sound, parallel sound, diegetic sound, and non-diegetic sound. It provides examples of how the opening music of Jaws creates suspense using parallel sound, but how that suspense is transformed when different music is overlaid in a contrapuntal way. A variety of sound effects that could be used for a thriller genre film are also listed, including glass smashing, footsteps, and heartbeats. The document evaluates how sound is particularly important for thrillers to create emotions in viewers and illustrates actions through parallel sound or creates an eerie tone with contrapuntal sound.

1. Sound research
BY ZOË GLEDHILL

2. Types of sound
Contrapuntal sound:
where the sounds or music
used contrast with the film or
movie clip it has been inserted
into.
Parallel sound:
sounds which we expect to
hear with that genre
Diegetic sound:
sound presented as originated from
source within the film's world
Non diegetic sound:
Sound represented as coming from a
source outside story space.

3. Examples
The opening to Jaws created a lot of suspense and tension through the use of its music. It told
the audience the genre of the film.
However, when different music is played on top of it, it creates a whole other story. It takes a
normal sinister dangerous moment and turns it into a joyous fun moment.
Click on the image, to see
the opening to Jaws with
contrapuntal music.
Click on the image, to
see the opening to
Jaws with parallel
sound.

4. Sounds I may use
Glass smashing
Footsteps
Screaming
Heavy breathing
Falling into something
Stone being thrown
Hammer hitting something
Heartbeats Click on the image above, to see the sound of a deep
breathing whilst running which fits with my opening
sequence but also the genre as it shows someone is scared
and running from something.

5. Examples
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Click on the image to hear the sound of glass
smashing. I will use this because it is a common
theme in thrillers as hearing or seeing something
smashing suggests bad luck.
Click on the image, to hear the sound of a
heartbeat. This suggests that something is
happening to make the character worried or
stressed. It could also suggest that this is the
last time this persons heart will beat again.

6. Evaluation
Sound is very important in all genres, but I think its most significant in thriller films as it can be
used to make the audience feel a lot of different emotions.
Parallel sound can be used to create suspense and tension. It further illustrates the action that
is on the screen. Certain sounds are associated with thrillers, thus parallel sound conforms to
the conventions.
Contrapuntal sound can be used to create an eerie tone and are effective in psychological
thrillers. For example; if someone is re telling a story of a sad time there might be happy music
playing over the flashback to create contrast.
Non diegetic sound is effective to create dramatic irony. Letting the audience hear and know
something that the character doesn’t know, keeps them engaged and allows them to feel
empathetic towards the characters.