Soundtracks

The past three months I've been putting together a film. (I wish I could call it that.) Shot on silent 16mm film last April, I am now piecing the final shots together. Of course with a silent film there are emotions and messages that the images will portray but the image only brings a viewer so far. Sound design on my film plays an important role in juxtaposing ideas. Part of the sound design is not just diagetic sound (sound that comes from a source that is in the scene, i.e. a radio is shown so talk or music could be heard on the soundtrack) but also non-diagetic sound (sound outside of the scene i.e. rocky runs up the steps with an orchestral score playing).

What music fits the scene or film that one is making? Since there are many rules and laws about music being used in film I chose not to use material recorded by someone else, instead I record my own. Or should I say Militant Citizenry records some music for the film. It is here where a new creative process takes place. One where possibilities abound and no mistakes are made. I have limited recording abilities but the limited tools or lack of professional equipment allows me to create soundtracks that are physical. Sometimes all of our toys and gadgets get in the way of creativity.

The soundtrack for the film, titled The Regression of Progression, is intended to play a minimal part to enhance the visual elements. This soundtrack was a simple endeavor but an endeavor non the less. I'm sure that whenever the film is finished the soundtrack will not be the most memorable thing about it. For a short film that's not much soundtrack but it is my hope that filmmakers and musicians not just settle for simplistic or pop driven derivatives. It would be great to have a hundred piece orchestra but I'd rather have the clarinet player playing with one hand and blowing onto squeaky reed. If it creates the sound and underscores the emotions of the scene then I'll take it any day.



Something to learn from The Monks.