I am writing a sound analysis essay for class about the film "Call Me By Your Name," and I'm stuck on what to make the my third paragraph about. Here's the prompt:
Pick any film you like and write a 2-page paper analyzing the sound design of that film using some of the theoretical principles we have discussed in class. I am very interested in your ideas on how sound design can drive the narrative and create an emotional experience for the audience.
Please explain which specific principles you are applying and describe in reasonable detail. Also describe the effect this has on the audience’s emotions.
Should I write down essentially a list of sound techniques used, or focus on something specific? I'm lost.
You should not just list techniques. You are to describe them, in some detail, as well as what effect these techniques have on the audience's emotional experience.
When writing your sound analysis essay, it's important to go beyond simply listing sound techniques used in the film "Call Me By Your Name." Instead, focus on something specific that you find interesting or significant in terms of sound design. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you figure out what to make your third paragraph about:
1. Review the film: Take some time to re-watch "Call Me By Your Name" and pay close attention to the sound design. Look for any particular moments that stood out to you or had a strong emotional impact. Consider scenes with prominent sound effects, music, dialogue, or any other sound elements that contributed to the narrative or your emotional experience while watching the film.
2. Identify the principles at play: Based on the theoretical principles you have discussed in class, identify which specific ones are applicable to the sound design of the film. These principles could include but are not limited to: sound perspective, sound effects, music, sound symbolism, or the use of silence. Think about how these principles are used in the film and how they contribute to the overall narrative and emotional experience for the audience.
3. Choose a specific element: Once you have identified the principles at play, choose one specific element of the sound design that you find particularly intriguing or meaningful. For example, you could focus on the use of music to convey emotions and highlight specific moments in the film or analyze the use of sound perspective to immerse the viewer in the characters' perspectives. Narrowing down your focus will give your analysis more depth and coherence.
4. Provide reasonable detail: In your essay, describe in reasonable detail how the chosen element of the sound design is implemented in the film. Discuss its purpose, effects, and any patterns or techniques used to enhance the narrative or emotional experience for the audience. Use specific examples from the film to support your analysis.
5. Discuss the effect on audience emotions: Finally, explain how the specific element of sound design you have chosen influences the audience's emotions. Consider whether it creates tension, conveys a particular mood or atmosphere, enhances character development, or adds depth to the narrative. You can discuss how the sound design contributes to the emotional resonance of key scenes or moments throughout the film.
By following these steps, you'll be able to focus your analysis and provide a more insightful and cohesive exploration of the sound design in "Call Me By Your Name." Good luck with your essay!