Jared Free - Transcendental Style in Film

In Paul Schrader’s work, Transcendental Style in Film, the author explores the influence of sound on an audiences film viewing experience. “Music and sound effects are the film-maker’s most subtle tools,” he remarks; and I absolutely agree (69). For me, some of my favorite films, particularly those that do not fit the genre of movies I typically enjoy, are determined by magnificent soundtracks. “A Beautiful Mind,” “Last of the Mohicans,” and “Road to Perdition,” all come to mind as movies I might rather watch because of audio effects rather than stunning visuals. The soundtrack of a film adds so much to a movie that no amount of visual special effects ever could. “The ear is more creative than the eye. If I can replace a set by a sound I prefer the sound. This gives freedom to the imagination of the public. This phenomenon helps you suggest things rather than having to show them,” remarks film maker Bresson (69). In contrast, a lack of music or audio effects often takes away from what may otherwise be an incredibly exciting or visually stimulating scene in a movie. The old James Bond movies, where fight scenes are car chases are often conducted without any sound aid and always seem to be missing something, come to mind.