Deconstruction of Sound in Horror Films

• Diegetic sound such as heartbeats and unexplained noises are exaggerated to build suspense and tension throughout the film.
• Non diegetic sounds such as screaming are normally loud and sudden to make the audience jump or to build fear.
• Some horror movies use children’s voices singing or whispering to give an eerie effect.
• Music is normally high pitched, eerie and slow tempo to begin with. As there is a build-up of tension or the action increases the pace of the music quickens.
• Horror movies may use calm and cheerful music at the beginning but then a sudden interruption to scare the audience.
• Sounds of weapons may be used such as a chainsaw to evoke sympathy from the audience as they begin to worry what about what is going to happen to the victim.