Sound analysis: blog tasks

A great example of innovative sound design is the opening scene of “Baby Driver” (2017) directed by Edgar Wright. This sequence uses sound to establish the film’s rhythm and connection between the protagonist and the music. example of innovative sound design is the opening scene of “Baby Driver” 

baby driver scene

Diegetic and Non-Diegetic Sound:

  •Diegetic sound in the clip includes the sounds that exist within the world of the      film, such as car engines, footsteps, and gunshots. All these sounds are blended      with the song Baby is listening to on his iPod, which is also diegetic, since the         character is actually listening to the music in the scene.

   •The non-diegetic sound would be the music itself, but since Baby is listening to  it, it feels like a fluid blend between diegetic and non-diegetic. The music  dominates the scene, almost creating a feeling that it’s more of a soundtrack for the audience than the character.

  Parallel and Contrapuntal Sound:

  •The sound in this clip is largely parallel, as the rhythm of the music matches the              actions happening on screen, such as car movements and gunshots. The editing             and sound effects are synchronised to match the beats of the music, reinforcing             the energy of the scene. For example, car doors slam, and tires screech in perfect          harmony with the beats.

  •There isn’t a strong contrapuntal sound in this scene, since the sound  complements the visuals perfectly. However, the scene’s joyous, upbeat music contrasts slightly with the seriousness of the heist, adding a sense of fun and tension at the same time.

  Sound Bridges:

 •The film uses a sound bridge as the music carries across cuts and transitions. This          provides continuity, linking various shots together seamlessly, as if the     entire world    is in sync with Baby’s personal soundtrack.

   Music, Dialogue, Voiceover, Sound Effects:

   •Music is the most dominant aspect of this scene, driving both the pace and the                mood.

   •There’s minimal dialogue, but when there is, it’s usually brief, which allows the   music to remain the focal point.

   •No voiceover is present in this clip.

   •Sound effects like gunshots, car engines, and screeching tires are synchronised with the music, creating a dynamic relationship between the two. Each sound effect seems to “dance” with the beat of the song, making the action more engaging.

  This scene showcases how sound can elevate action, turning even a heist getaway into a musical experience.