The Importance of Sound in Horror Films

The Importance of Sound in Horror Films

Sound is often overlooked in films but it is often the single most important element in setting the mood for the scene. Music has the ability to set the tone for how events will unfold. Music may progressively build to signify that a dramatic event is about to happen or it may be upbeat to lighten the mood. Horror films rely heavily in sound clips to create a scary scene. I don't necessarily think about it but if I was to remove the sound from a horror film, its fear factor would decrease dramatically.

Music plays a key role in a horror film because it immediately sets the tone. Before the actor says anything, the audience knows what their fate is going to be based on the type of music that is playing in the background. The music sets the tone but it does not give away how events are going to unfold. The music must never distract from the scene but intensify the visuals so that the viewer experiences fear and anxiety on a much deeper level. There are several musical cues that indicate to the viewer what is going to unfold in the upcoming scene. A long eerie musical buildup suggests that a big event is just around the corner. A rapid sequence might suggest stress or panic, making the audience feel anxious.

Music adds to the complete experience of a horror film because it's a way in which the director chooses to set the mood of the scene and film. By repeating sequences of musical scores, the audience associates that music with events in the film. The point of a horror film is to scare the viewer. Music is the biggest contributor to getting the viewer's adrenaline pumping because it sets the tone before any events actually occur. The viewer can feel scared before any events transpire based on how effectively and artistically the music is utilized.