Non-diegetic sound

Definition

Non-diegetic sound refers to audio that does not originate from the world of the film's narrative. This includes elements like background music, voiceovers, and sound effects that the characters within the film are not aware of. Non-diegetic sound serves to enhance storytelling by evoking emotions, creating atmosphere, and providing information beyond what is visually represented on screen.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Non-diegetic sound can significantly influence audience perception and emotional response by setting mood and tone.
2. The use of non-diegetic sound is often a creative choice made during post-production to enhance storytelling and viewer engagement.
3. Soundtracks containing non-diegetic music can create iconic moments in film, making certain scenes more memorable.
4. Voiceovers as a form of non-diegetic sound can provide backstory or context without altering the visual narrative.
5. Filmmakers often use non-diegetic sound strategically to foreshadow events or to provide insight into a character’s emotional state.

Review Questions

• How does non-diegetic sound contribute to the emotional experience of a film?
  • Non-diegetic sound plays a crucial role in shaping the emotional experience of a film by enhancing scenes with music or voiceovers that evoke specific feelings. For example, a suspenseful score can heighten tension during a thrilling moment, while soft music can evoke nostalgia or sadness. This auditory layer adds depth to the visual narrative, guiding audience reactions and making them more invested in the story.
• Compare and contrast non-diegetic sound with diegetic sound in terms of their functions in film.
  • Non-diegetic sound and diegetic sound serve different functions in film. Diegetic sound originates from the film's world and includes elements like dialogue or sounds produced by objects that characters can hear. In contrast, non-diegetic sound is external to the narrative world, such as background music or voiceovers that provide additional context or emotion. While diegetic sound grounds the viewer in the reality of the film, non-diegetic sound enhances storytelling and emotional impact.
• Evaluate the impact of non-diegetic sound on audience engagement and narrative development in modern cinema.
  • The impact of non-diegetic sound on audience engagement and narrative development in modern cinema is profound. Filmmakers utilize this auditory element to deepen viewer immersion and emotional connection to the story. For instance, contemporary films often employ non-diegetic scores to underscore pivotal moments, enriching character arcs and plot progression. This technique helps establish themes and moods that resonate with audiences, making films not just visual experiences but also deeply engaging auditory journeys.

Related terms

diegetic sound:

Sound that originates from the world of the film's narrative, such as dialogue spoken by characters or sounds made by objects in the film.

soundtrack: A collection of music used in a film, often including both diegetic and non-diegetic elements, that supports the narrative and enhances emotional engagement.

voiceover: A production technique where a voice that is not part of the narrative speaks over scenes, often providing commentary or insight into characters' thoughts.