Music In Films

Horror films rely on music and sound effects to complete the overall atmosphere of the product. The fast paced editing and music/sounds that are included in horror films, are used specifically to make the audience jump or to build up the tension. However, without the music used, the film will most likely end up being no scary. This is the main reason why the music in horror films is extremely important. For example if the music is happy and jolly and the film is a horror, then it will most likely end up being funny and not in the least bit scary.

I did some research into this theory and found a video on YouTube that demonstrates how different music can affect and change the whole outlook on a film.



This clip has been taken from 'Pirates of the Caribbean.' With the use of different styles of music over the top of the same clip, the whole mood of the scene has been completely changed. From this, I understand that our product will need to feature the correct style of music that will fit in with our genre and also create the right mood.

As well as music used in films, sound effects are used too. Depending on the genre and sub-genre of the film, the sound effects will be different and match what is happening on screen. For horror films, sound effects such as screaming and creaking floor boards would be most appropriate, and create the correct mood.

I also looked into the latest Disney princess film, 'Frozen.' This is the trailer for the film.

From this trailer the audience can tell that it is a children's film because the music is lighthearted and the mise-en scene implies that it will be a fun and happy film. Also these factors represent that the ending to the film will most likely be happy. But if the music for this film was changed to a different style, it could completely change the atmosphere of the film.



However, this trailer shows a completely different atmosphere to the film. The creepy music and scary sound effects create a horror effect on the film. The mise-en scene also helps it out, as the lighting is low key and creates tension. The use of a clock in the background makes the movie seem like a horror, this proves that music can really change a film.