Film producers know that music sync is important. They are aware that music has the power to evoke emotions and set the tone for a scene in movies and commercials. The right music can make a horror scene terrifying, a love scene romantic, and a sad scene heart-wrenching. As a music sync professional, I can explain why certain music is chosen for these purposes.
Horror scenes often feature dissonant and unsettling music that creates a sense of unease in the audience. These musical elements can include dissonant harmonies, unexpected intervals, and eerie sound effects. The famous shower scene in Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” is a perfect example of this. The high-pitched violin screeches, known as the “shower scene violins,” add to the tension and horror of the scene. Similarly, in “The Exorcist,” Mike Oldfield’s “Tubular Bells” creates an ominous and haunting atmosphere, adding to the horror of the possessed child.
On the other hand, love scenes often feature romantic and dreamy music that creates a sense of intimacy and passion. These musical elements can include soft melodies, warm harmonies, and gentle instrumentation. In “Titanic,” James Horner’s “My Heart Will Go On” perfectly captures the romantic and tragic love story between Jack and Rose. The soft piano and soaring flute melody, accompanied by a full orchestra, adds to the grandeur and beauty of their love story.
Sad scenes, such as funerals or tragedies, often feature mournful and melancholic music that captures the sadness and loss of the moment. These musical elements can include slow tempos, minor keys, and expressive melodies. In “The Lion King,” Hans Zimmer’s “The Circle of Life” is transformed into a somber and mournful version when Mufasa dies, capturing the sadness and loss of the moment.
The use of music in advertisements and movie trailers has been studied extensively, and statistics show that it can have a significant impact on audience engagement and emotional response. According to a study by Nielsen, music can increase brand recall by 96% and brand likability by 24%. Another study by Innerscope Research found that music can increase emotional engagement by up to 30%. In movie trailers, the use of music can make or break the success of a film. A study by Music & Copyright found that the use of popular music in trailers can lead to a 200% increase in box office revenue.
In conclusion, the use of music in movies and commercials is a powerful tool that can evoke emotions, set the tone for a scene, and increase audience engagement. Whether it’s the haunting violin screeches in a horror scene, the dreamy melodies in a love scene, or the mournful tones in a sad scene, the right music can make a scene unforgettable. So, next time you watch a movie or commercial, pay attention to the music and how it affects your emotions. Remember that a team of talented people worked to source the sounds that help create the soundtrack for your experience.