Chapter 7, “Sound in the Cinema,” explores the various roles of sound in cinema, emphasizing its equal importance alongside visuals in shaping a film’s overall experience. The chapter delves into the three components of a film’s sound: dialogue, sound effects, and music. It illustrates how these elements work together to enhance narrative, build emotion, and immerse the audience. There is a strong argument that sound is not just an accompaniment to the image but an essential element that can help viewers see film differently.

One of the key concepts discussed in the chapter is the distinction between diegetic and non-diegetic sound. Diegetic sound refers to audio elements that originate within the film’s world, such as characters’ speech or noises from the environment. Non-diegetic sound, on the other hand, comes from outside the film’s world, like a musical score or a voice-over narrator. This differentiation allows filmmakers to creatively guide audiences’ focus or signify emotional tones.

To add on, the chapter discusses a sound’s ability to control the audience’s attention and narrative structure. Through techniques like sound bridges, where audio from one scene carries over into the next, filmmakers can create smooth transitions or depict foreshadowing. Also, the use of sound perspective helps establish spatial relationships in scenes.

The chapter also highlights how filmmakers use sound to build or release tension. In thrillers or horror films, for instance, sudden changes in sound levels or eerie, discordant music often heighten suspense. On the other hand, silence can be equally powerful, amplifying the visual drama on screen. By analyzing how sound operates alongside with editing and cinematography, the chapter illustrates how necessary sound is in putting together a film.