“You know the trouble with real life? There’s no danger music.”
These words, attributed to renowned comedian and Hollywood actor Jim Carrey, spotlight the significant role that soundtracks play in shaping our psychological experiences while watching film and television. A well-crafted soundtrack can elevate a scene from mere visual storytelling to a fully immersive experience, evoking powerful emotions from the audience.
Some scenes rely more on sound than action. For instance, “Jaws” builds tension through its score long before the shark shows up. Choices like this shape how we watch, not just what we hear.
“Music in film enhances emotions and gives a sense of what’s going on,” said sophomore Leila Murugan. “In English, we watched “Night and Fog,” a Holocaust movie, and the music definitely added to the sense of danger and overall dark tone of the film.”
The connection between music and emotion is not accidental. Certain instruments and melodies naturally trigger psychological responses. A slow, minor-key piano melody might evoke sadness. A rising string section can create a sense of urgency. Soundtracks are designed specifically to tap into these instincts and guide how viewers feel, sometimes without them even realizing it.
“Psychologically speaking, music is extremely powerful in the human mind. As to why, that, in and of itself, is almost a little bit of a mystery. But what it is is that certain music and certain tones played in certain patterns have a known way of either making somebody excited or fearful, or happy or sad,” explained AP Psychology teacher Melanie Flint. “As for their impact on the audience member and the film, the music tells the story just as much as what you’re watching. Music brings attention to even a small change, like a transition. Like there’s sound, and now we’re someplace else geographically, right? We’ve moved the story.”
Composers and filmmakers take advantage of the psychological effects of music, creating soundtracks that enhance a scene and offer deeper levels of meaning. However, creating the ideal score is difficult. Instead of enhancing the scene, an overly dramatic or out of sync soundtrack can detract. One of the hardest things for composers to do is strike a balance between impactful and subtle.
Still, when done right, a soundtrack becomes iconic. The bold opening notes of “Star Wars” are instantly recognizable to generations of viewers, and the uplifting theme from “The Lion King” has become synonymous with childhood nostalgia. Like dialogue or cinematography, these sounds become an integral part of the storytelling.
Great soundtracks in films are more than just background music — they tie each scene together and create a sense of unity throughout the movie. The power of music within cinema is undeniable, and creates unforgettable experiences that audiences know, recognize and love.
