Horror Sound

In any film sound is a key element. With the horror genre there are typical element of sound you usually come across. In any film diegetic sound is used, however in horror films certain elements of diegetic sound are much louder, for example heavy breathing. These sounds are used in order to create tension and make the audience jump. Music is also an important element in all films. In horror films the non diegetic music is often composed of string instruments and tensional scores, building a sense of suspense. Parallel sound, created by events on screen is also a generic feature of horror films. Finally, possibly slightly less frequently used, is contrapuntal sound. This is sound that doesn't match the action on screen. This can be used very effectively in horror films because you can contrast violence and death with calm, peaceful music, creating a sense of unease.

In our horror film opening we will need to incorporate some of these elements to ensure we are using codes and conventions of horror films, and successfully sticking to the genre.