A Well-Presented, Intriguing Subject: Using Audio Examples

E-Page 75
 Analyze 
Use the basic features.

Making contrasts between the blander “sounds of violence” in films from the 1970s (and before) and the over-the-top sound effects in today’s films is one way that Engber demonstrates sound inflation. He establishes that sound inflation exists through vivid examples and sound clips instead of with statistics or testimony from sound engineers.

ANALYZE & WRITE

Write one or two paragraphs analyzing how Engber (with the help of his interviewer, Brooke Gladstone) presents his subject:

Printed Page 2076
  1. Write a few sentences about the differences between the punching sounds in Rocky and The Fighter (3:15-4:26). How does this example demonstrate sound inflation? Is there anything you would have added to the discussion of these contrasting sound clips?
  2. Make a note of other movies and sound effects that Engber and Gladstone discuss. Why do you suppose that Engber singles out these films and effects? Do you think he provides enough examples to demonstrate that sound inflation exists? If not, what other examples might you have added?
  3. Engber suggests that realism has become more and more irrelevant in the creation of sound effects for violent movie scenes. Engber comments, “It’s almost like [sound editors] reject the idea that there is a real sound because who would know what it sounds like to hear a head being stomped in an elevator? So they talk about sounds that access some emotional response directly.” Does he do enough to explore the reasons that exaggeration has taken precedence over realism? Give examples to support your answer.

    Question