Most people probably realize how important sound is to movies. In filmmaking, audio and visuals have at the very least a 50/50 relationship, though I might argue that audio bears even more importance.

I once had a teacher who was of the belief that audiences are more tolerant of bad picture quality than they are of bad sound. Indeed, there is much truth in that statement. Why is this?

To start with, it is very difficult to exactly identify a bad image. When it comes to pointing out a great shot, everyone has an opinion. However, when a film is shot with a lot of grain, or with a shaky-camera, or over-exposed, the argument can often be made that it is a stylized choice.

However, the inability to hear dialogue always results in an unsatisfying experience. Likewise, a poor choice of music will make the audience view the accompanying visuals in the wrong way. Consider Watchmen’s choice of music. “The Times They Are A-Changin’ ” was an inspired choice for the opening credit sequence. Conversely, “The Sounds of Silence,” “Hallelujah,” and “Ride of the Valkyries” were either misused or too cliché to be taken seriously.

I’m usually the first person up in the theater to inform the staff of a problem. Nine times out of 10, it’s because of an audio issue. You can’t really go to the staff to complain about a poor decision made by the filmmakers, though. If it’s mixed poorly, you’re pretty much stuck unless you decide to walk out. (more…)