When we say “space”, people generally think of two things: outer space, or a bounded area that something fits into. It's a safe bet that most people in the sound community immediately think of the latter. So often we focus on the characteristics of a space...how far a sound carries, reflections and reverberation time, etc. Certainly that helps us define a space, but...for the … [Read more...]
Collaborating with the Music Team – An Interview with Randy Thom
When we talk about the blurry lines that exist between sound design and music, it's important to remember that we don't work in a vacuum. Media is collaborative. The more effectively we work with our counterparts, the greater a project's potential becomes. So, I asked Randy Thom to discuss the ins and outs building a working relationship the music department. DS: I know … [Read more...]
Ideas in Sound Design: Semiotics and Language – Part 2
Cross-posting from my personal blog. In my last article, I talked about Semiotics and encouraged sound designers and editors to think of sound for picture as a language; or, at least, as a component of the language used by any given film. I'd rather not rehash the specific elements of Semiotics that were discussed. There are several ideas that I'm going to assume you've read … [Read more...]
Cast Away Discussion with Randy Thom: Recording now Available
We had a great time discussing the sound of Cast Away with Randy Thom this morning, and the recording is now available. I have to apologize though, I screwed up on starting the recording...and it's missing the first minute of the discussion. Here's a recap. I asked Randy to describe the goals of the sound design for the film. He started by describing how the director, Robert … [Read more...]
Film Sound Discussion Group: Cast Away (2000)
For the next Film Sound Discussion Group, we'll be taking a look at the film Cast Away (2000)...directed by Robert Zemeckis, with sound design by Randy Thom. This session is going to be different from the previous two, we aren't going to have any special or central presenters. This is going to be a moderated free form discussion to take a look at the use of sound and effects in … [Read more...]
Randy Thom Special: Articles and Interviews
Ends June, and the Randy Thom Special too. Let's see some interesing interviews and articles by Randy talking about his work, his techniques, and special sound development for several movies and games. What is Sound Design? You may assume that it’s about fabricating neat sound effects. But that doesn’t describe very accurately what Ben Burtt and Walter Murch, who invented the … [Read more...]