The Art of Film Music: Created Before or After?
When it comes to film music, the production process can vary greatly depending on the project and the director's vision. Two primary approaches include music created before filming and after filming. Understanding these methods can help filmmakers and composers achieve the best outcome for their projects.
Music Created Before Filming
Pre-Scoring: Setting the Tone
Some filmmakers opt to create music before the scenes are actually filmed. This approach, known as pre-scoring, can significantly impact the mood and atmosphere of the film. Directors may use temporary tracks, or temp music, to convey the desired emotional impact during the shooting process. Composers may also work closely with storyboards to understand the pacing and emotional beats of the film, allowing them to craft music that aligns closely with the intended visuals.
Storyboard Influence: Aligning Visuals and Music
Composers often collaborate with storyboard artists to get a clear picture of the film's visual narrative. This collaboration helps them to create music that enhances the overall experience. Through pre-scoring, composers can ensure that the music they create sets the tone for the film, contributing to a cohesive and immersive viewing experience.
Music Created After Filming
Post-Scoring: Composing for the Complete Film
When composers create music after the film is shot and edited, this approach is referred to as post-scoring. This method allows for greater alignment with the final cut, ensuring that the music complements the timing, dialogue, and action in the scenes. This is often the more common approach, as it allows for precise synchronization and emotional impact that can be enhanced through multiple takes and editing.
Spotting Sessions: Synchronizing Music and Film
Spotting sessions are crucial in the post-scoring process. During these meetings, composers and directors work together to determine where and how the music will be placed in the film. They discuss the emotional context and thematic elements for each scene, ensuring that the music fits seamlessly into the narrative. This collaboration is essential for creating a soundtrack that enhances the film's overall impact.
Examples of Each Approach
The The Batman soundtrack is an excellent example of post-scoring. While it had a significant influence on the film's tone and atmosphere, it was created after the film was shot. Michael Giacchino’s work in The Batman was centered on making the music fit properly with the scenes that were already filmed. The music in this film is used to enhance the pacing and emotional depth of the storytelling.
In contrast, films like Shrek and Baby Driver showcase a blend of pre-scoring and post-scoring. In these movies, a large portion of the soundtrack consists of existing pop songs. Storyboard artists and editors had to ensure that the scenes would flow naturally with the music. In Baby Driver, the music is so integral to the plot that it not only synchronizes with the words but also influences the pacing of the entire scene. The film achieves a level of synchronicity that makes it feel almost magical.
Conclusion
The choice between creating music before or after filming depends on the film’s needs, the director's vision, and the collaborative relationship between the composer and filmmakers. Both methods can yield effective results, and sometimes a combination of both is used to achieve the best outcome. Understanding the dynamics of these approaches can help filmmakers and composers work more effectively and create music that enhances the overall cinematic experience.