Picture this: it’s a cold fall night. You’ve gotten yourself all ready to watch a horror movie because Halloween is right around the corner. The lights are off, no one is home, and on your TV, you’re watching the lead character walk along the dark, treacherous hallway with the intense noise of eery strings and the violent sounds of a piano key playing in the background. With every step the character takes, you feel a cold sensation of fear creep into your body. And then, suddenly, you hear the intense sounds of a piano as if each key was getting punched, and the killer pops up!
Music plays a crucial role in shaping movie culture, enhancing storytelling, and determining how the audience can connect with the film. From silent films, where live music was used to give life to the film, to today’s major hit movies with incredibly crafted scores, music has been a key factor in cinema.
One of the most potent ways music impacts movies is through its ability to create emotions. A well-crafted score can amplify the feelings of happiness, sorrow, and conflict. For example, the melodies from Indiana Jones, scored by John Williams, created a staple theme song that made the character a long-living legend. John Williams also curated the score for “Jaws” with its intense build-up music that captured the villainous nature of the sharks’ presence in the film. These musical cues guide the audience’s emotions, which makes watching movies a more elevated experience.
Furthermore, iconic songs from films have left an indelible mark on pop culture, evoking nostalgia and connecting us to the films they represent. Songs like ‘My Heart Will Go On’ by Celine Dion from ‘Titanic’ or ‘All the Stars’ from ‘Black Panther’ not only enhanced the films’ narratives but also found a place in our hearts, often bringing back memories of the films themselves. When a song is paired with a powerful scene, it transcends the film, creating a lasting memory that stays with the audience long after the credits roll.
Ultimately, music is a powerful tool that shapes movie culture, heightens emotions and sets the tone for the narrative. However, its most significant role is creating connections with the audience. Whether it’s through a haunting score, an iconic song, or a memorable collaboration, music enriches the cinematic experience and makes films more memorable and enjoyable. As long as movies are made, music will continue to play a pivotal role in the magic of storytelling, drawing audiences in and making them an integral part of the cinematic journey.