Movies and Film: Film: Sound in Movies

Film: Sound in Movies

Sound is the input we take most for granted when watching a flick. We take the explosions, kisses, gunshots, and thunderstorms as simple recordings when there is a whole set of technicians and technologies put in play to give you a sense of what a Jedi light saber sounds like in action.

In this section, you'll learn about both the history that leads up to the effects you hear in present movies, and something about the technology of the effects themselves. You'll learn about the different effects experts use, and even some of the theories that inform those uses. Finally, we'll suggest some films for which you should crank up the volume. So put on your earphones and make sure the bass is ready to rumble.

Excerpted from The Complete Idiot's Guide to Movies and Film © 2001 by Mark Winokur and Bruce Holsinger. All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. Used by arrangement with Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

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