Giving Characters Personalities That Evolve, Via Sound Design

Post published on Randy Thom’s Blogspot on September 13, 2024.

by Randy Thom

Film characters become more relatable when audiences are invited to not just see their world but to hear it as they do, especially as the character’s personality and psychology evolve over time.

In some of the cases below, the evolution in a character’s perception of a sound was written into the script.  In some it wasn’t.  But in all cases, it COULD have been in the script, instead of having to be discovered by accident in post-production.

I’m hoping these examples will inspire screenwriters and directors to think more deeply about what their characters hear, and how they hear it.  I’m also hoping the examples will be an aid to sound designers in their discussions with directors during pre-production, production, and post-production, as well as a useful source of ideas.

The list is in random order, except that “Apocalypse Now” and “The Revenant“ are first, because I happened to work on them. 😉

“Apocalypse Now” (1979) – Captain Willard and the Sound of Helicopter Blades

The sound of helicopter blades in the film has a dual role.  One is literal, embodying the power and danger of the war machines.  The other is metaphorical/musical, reflecting Captain Willard’s psychological response to the war, and his inner turmoil.  That response is sometimes ominous, for example in the beginning of the film during his hallucination/nightmare.  But it can be literally uplifting as well.  For example, when the group of helicopters fly in formation, like a flock of birds, the synthesized thumping of the blades is beautiful and harmonious.

“The Revenant” (2015) – Hugh Glass’s Perception of the Rhythmic, Whispering Wind

Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio), after surviving a brutal bear attack and being left for dead, frequently encounters the sound of the wind whispering through the trees. Initially, this sound embodies the harsh and indifferent wilderness that threatens his survival. As he endures immense physical and emotional pain, the wind begins to carry echoes of his deceased wife and son, blending reality with the memory of where he first heard this rhythmic whispering sound. By the film’s end, the wind transforms into a symbol of solace and spiritual connection, reflecting Glass’s internal journey from vengeance to acceptance and his reconnection with his lost family.

“Arrival” (2016) – Louise Banks’s Perception of Alien Sounds

Linguist Louise Banks (Amy Adams) works to understand the language of extraterrestrial visitors. The incomprehensible sounds initially create tension and fear among the human characters. As Louise delves deeper into communication with the aliens, the sounds become meaningful and even comforting to her. This shift reveals her open-mindedness and foreshadows her altered perception of time and reality.

“No Country for Old Men” (2007) – Llewelyn Moss’s Reaction to Silence

Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin) finds himself pursued by the relentless assassin Anton Chigurh. In moments of tension, the absence of sound or the amplification of subtle noises like footsteps becomes significant. Initially, silence is a backdrop, but as danger closes in, it heightens his alertness and fear. The changing perception of silence reflects his increasing paranoia and the gravity of his situation.

“The Sixth Sense” (1999) – Cole Sear’s Interaction with Whispering Voices

Young Cole Sear (Haley Joel Osment) hears whispers and unsettling noises that others cannot, representing his ability to see and communicate with spirits. Initially, these sounds terrify him, symbolizing his isolation and fear of the unknown. Through his relationship with Dr. Malcolm Crowe (Bruce Willis), Cole learns to understand and even assist the spirits, changing his perception of the whispers from haunting to communicative. This shift illustrates his growth and acceptance of his unique ability.

“Jaws” (1975) – Chief Brody’s Relationship with Ocean Sounds

Chief Martin Brody (Roy Scheider) has a deep-seated fear of water. The sounds of the ocean—waves crashing, water lapping—initially serve as a constant reminder of his phobia and the unseen dangers lurking beneath. As the shark attacks escalate, these sounds heighten his anxiety and sense of helplessness. However, when he finally confronts the great white shark, the ocean sounds shift in his perception from representing fear to embodying the battleground where he must assert his courage. This change illustrates his personal growth and determination to protect his community despite his fears.

“A Quiet Place” (2018) – Regan’s Evolving Connection to Sound

Regan Abbott (Millicent Simmonds), who is deaf, lives in a world where making sound can be fatal due to sound-sensitive creatures. Initially, her inability to hear is a source of vulnerability and frustration, isolating her from her family. Over time, Regan’s perception changes when she discovers that her cochlear implant can emit a high-frequency sound that repels the creatures. The sound, once a symbol of her perceived weakness, becomes a powerful tool. This shift reveals her journey toward self-empowerment and her critical role in her family’s survival.

“Blade Runner 2049” (2017) – Officer K’s Perception of Synthetic Sounds

Officer K (Ryan Gosling), a replicant, navigates a futuristic world filled with artificial sounds—from holographic advertisements to engineered environments. Initially, these synthetic sounds blend into the background of his monotonous existence. As he begins to question his own identity and experiences what he believes to be implanted memories, the artificial sounds become intrusive and disconcerting. This change mirrors his internal struggle with authenticity and his place in a society that blurs the lines between real and artificial, highlighting his longing for genuine connection.

“The Shawshank Redemption” (1994) – Andy Dufresne’s Use of Music

Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) brings a moment of transcendence to Shawshank Prison by playing “Duettino – Sull’aria” from Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro” over the loudspeakers. Initially, the prison is a place devoid of beauty and hope, filled with oppressive sounds of chains and bars. The music interrupts this harsh soundscape, and the inmates perceive it as a liberating force that momentarily frees them from their confinement. For Andy, the sound of music evolves from personal solace to a means of offering hope to others, reflecting his unbroken spirit and altruism.

“Gravity” (2013) – Dr. Ryan Stone’s Interaction with Silence

Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) faces the vast silence of space after a disaster leaves her stranded. Initially, the absence of sound amplifies her fear and isolation, making the void seem hostile. As she battles to survive, the silence becomes a space for introspection, allowing her to confront her grief over her daughter’s death. By embracing the silence, she finds inner strength and a will to live. This shift illustrates her emotional journey from despair to resilience.

“The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy (2001-2003) – Frodo’s Perception of the Ring’s Whispering

Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) hears the One Ring whispering to him, growing louder and more insistent as he gets closer to Mordor. Initially, the whispers are subtle temptations that he can resist. Over time, the sounds become overwhelming, reflecting the increasing burden of carrying the Ring and its corrupting influence. This progression highlights Frodo’s internal struggle with power and temptation, as well as the heavy cost of his mission on his psyche.

“Birdman (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)” (2014) – Riggan Thomson’s Inner Voice

Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton) hears the voice of his former superhero character, Birdman, speaking to him. At first, the voice is a nagging doubt, questioning his efforts to reinvent himself as a serious actor. As pressures mount, the voice grows louder and more intrusive, representing his insecurities and fear of irrelevance. The change in how he perceives this sound reflects his deteriorating mental state and the blurring of his reality, culminating in a critical point where he must choose between his delusions and true self.

“Memento” (2000) – Leonard Shelby’s Interaction with Polaroid Camera Sounds

Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce) suffers from short-term memory loss and relies on Polaroid photos to record information. The click and whir of the camera become routine sounds in his life. Initially, these sounds represent his attempts to maintain control and order. As the story unfolds non-linearly, the repetitive camera sounds take on a more haunting quality, emphasizing the futility of his quest and the manipulation he endures. This shift reveals the tragic cycle he’s trapped in and his vulnerability.

“Donnie Darko” (2001) – Donnie’s Hearing of Frank’s Voice

Donnie Darko (Jake Gyllenhaal) begins hearing the voice of Frank, a mysterious figure in a rabbit suit. Initially, Frank’s voice is eerie but intriguing, leading Donnie to question reality and engage in rebellious acts. As the commands become darker and more demanding, Donnie’s perception shifts to fear and confusion. This auditory hallucination reflects his struggle with mental health and the burden of unraveling complex existential and temporal mysteries, ultimately leading to his acceptance of a sacrificial role.

“Gladiator” (2000) – Maximus’s Memories of His Family’s Voices

General Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe) is haunted by the voices and laughter of his murdered wife and son. Initially, these sounds are a source of deep pain and fuel his desire for vengeance against those who wronged him. As he fights his way through the gladiatorial arenas, the memories of their voices become a guiding force, reminding him of the values he holds dear. In his final moments, the sounds transform into a peaceful beckoning, symbolizing his readiness to reunite with his family. This shift illustrates his journey from revenge to reconciliation and peace.

“The Imitation Game” (2014) – Alan Turing’s Relationship with the Sound of Enigma

Alan Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch) works tirelessly to crack the German Enigma code during World War II. The sounds of the code-breaking machines and encrypted messages initially represent an insurmountable challenge and the pressure of war. As Turing makes breakthroughs, these sounds become exhilarating, symbolizing hope and the potential to save lives. Later, when he faces persecution for his sexuality, the silence of his machines reflects his isolation and the tragedy of his personal life, highlighting the disconnect between his monumental contributions and his treatment by society.

“Casablanca” (1942) – Rick Blaine’s Association with “As Time Goes By”

Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) forbids the song “As Time Goes By” to be played in his café because it reminds him of his lost love, Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman). Initially, the song evokes pain and bitterness, symbolizing his attempt to suppress his past and emotions. When Ilsa re-enters his life, the song resurfaces, and Rick’s perception shifts from avoidance to acceptance. By the film’s end, the song represents the enduring nature of love and the sacrifices he makes for a greater cause. This change reflects Rick’s transformation from a cynical, detached individual to a selfless hero who reconnects with his feelings.

The Conversation” (1974) – Harry Caul’s Obsession with a Recorded Dialogue

Surveillance expert Harry Caul (Gene Hackman) records a seemingly mundane conversation between a couple. Initially, the recorded sounds are just part of his job. As he obsessively replays the tapes, he begins to perceive hidden threats within the dialogue and background noises. His changing perception of the sound reflects his growing paranoia and guilt over past actions. This shift exposes his internal conflicts and contributes to his eventual psychological breakdown, illustrating his deepening vulnerability and loss of control.

 “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937) – Snow White’s Perception of Forest Sounds

When Snow White flees into the forest, the sounds of rustling leaves, creaking branches, and animal noises are amplified to seem frightening and ominous. These sound effects embody her fear and uncertainty. As she calms down and befriends the forest animals, the same sounds become gentle and welcoming. This shift in perception illustrates her ability to overcome fear through courage and kindness, reflecting her inner strength and positive outlook.

“Rebecca” (1940) – The Second Mrs. de Winter’s Perception of Manderley’s Sounds

The unnamed second Mrs. de Winter (Joan Fontaine) is initially unsettled by the eerie sounds of the Manderley estate—the creaking floors, distant whispers, and echoes in the grand hallways. These sounds heighten her insecurity and feelings of inadequacy living in the shadow of her husband’s late wife. As she becomes more assertive and uncovers the truth about Rebecca, the oppressive sounds lose their hold over her. This change reflects her growth from a timid, naive girl into a confident woman reclaiming her place in the household.

“The Treasure of the Sierra Madre” (1948) – Fred C. Dobbs’s Perception of the Wind

Fred C. Dobbs (Humphrey Bogart) initially pays little attention to the wind in the mountains. As the trio discovers gold and greed takes hold, the howling wind becomes a haunting sound that feeds Dobbs’s paranoia about being betrayed by his partners. The once unnoticed natural sound transforms into an ominous presence reflecting his descent into madness. This shift illustrates how greed and mistrust corrupt his character.

“The Third Man” (1949) – Holly Martins’s Perception of Footsteps in Vienna

Holly Martins (Joseph Cotten) wanders the dark, cobblestone streets of post-war Vienna, where the sound of footsteps echo ominously. Initially, these sounds create a sense of mystery and distrust, symbolizing the secrets surrounding his friend Harry Lime’s (Orson Welles) death. As Holly uncovers the truth about Harry’s illicit activities, the footsteps become clues that lead him deeper into moral ambiguity. The change in his perception mirrors his journey from naive friend to a man grappling with betrayal and his own ethical choices.

“High Noon” (1952) – Marshal Will Kane’s Perception of the Ticking Clock

Marshal Will Kane (Gary Cooper) awaits the arrival of a vengeful outlaw on the noon train. The ticking of the clock is a persistent sound effect throughout the film. Initially, the ticking is a distant reminder of the approaching confrontation. As the hour draws nearer and Kane finds himself alone, abandoned by the townspeople, the ticking grows louder in his mind, symbolizing his isolation and the relentless passage of time. This change underscores his courage and determination to face danger alone, reflecting his steadfast moral code.

“Rear Window” (1954) – L.B. Jefferies’s Perception of Neighborhood Sounds

Photographer L.B. “Jeff” Jefferies (James Stewart) is confined to his apartment with a broken leg. At first, the ambient sounds of his neighbors—their conversations, music, and daily activities—are merely background noise that he observes out of boredom. As he suspects one neighbor of murder, these sounds become significant and sinister, each noise potentially a clue or evidence. The shift in his perception reflects his growing obsession with solving the mystery, highlighting his transition from passive observer to active participant in his neighbors’ lives.

“The Birds” (1963) – Melanie Daniels’s Perception of Bird Sounds

Melanie Daniels (Tippi Hedren) initially hears birds chirping as a normal, even pleasant, part of the coastal town’s ambiance. As unexplained bird attacks begin, the same sounds become threatening and foreboding. The rustling of wings and cawing grows ominous, signaling imminent danger. Melanie’s changing perception reflects her transition from a carefree socialite to someone grappling with inexplicable natural forces, revealing her resilience and adaptability in the face of terror.

“Lawrence of Arabia” (1962) – T.E. Lawrence’s Perception of Desert Sounds

T.E. Lawrence (Peter O’Toole) experiences the vast silence and subtle sounds of the desert. Initially, the desert’s quietness is overwhelming and alien to him. As he immerses himself in Arab culture and embraces his role in their struggle, the subtle sounds—the shifting sands, distant calls—become a source of comfort and connection. This shift in perception reflects his transformation from a British outsider to a leader who identifies deeply with the people and landscape, highlighting his complex identity and personal journey.

“Metropolis” (1927) – Freder’s Perception of the Machine Sounds

Freder (Gustav Fröhlich) initially perceives the mechanical sounds of the city’s machines as a normal backdrop to his privileged life. After witnessing the harsh conditions of the workers, the relentless clanking and grinding noises become oppressive and distressing to him. This shift in perception reflects Freder’s awakening to social injustice and his growing empathy, marking his transformation from indifference to activism.  These industrial sound effects were performed by members of an orchestra playing live during each film screening, since synchronous sound did not exist in 1927.

“Psycho” (1960) – Marion Crane’s Reaction to the Shower Water

Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) initially finds the sound of the shower water soothing, symbolizing her attempt to cleanse herself of guilt after stealing money. As the infamous shower scene unfolds, the sound of the water mingles with the violent attack, transforming the once calming noise into one associated with terror and vulnerability. This change highlights her sudden shift from control to victimhood.

“12 Angry Men” (1957) – Juror 8’s Perception of the Passing El Train Sounds

Juror 8 (Henry Fonda) brings attention to the loud sound of a passing el train, which would have prevented a witness from hearing a crucial event. Initially, the sound is just part of the urban environment. As the jurors reenact testimonies, the train’s noise becomes a pivotal element in uncovering the truth, reflecting Juror 8’s growing determination to seek justice and challenge assumptions.

“Alien” (1979) – Ripley’s Interaction with the Ship’s Alarms

Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) perceives the ship’s ambient sounds and alarms as routine. When the alien threat emerges, these sounds become harbingers of danger. The blaring alarms heighten her senses and survival instincts. This shift reflects Ripley’s evolution from a by-the-book officer to a resourceful survivor, showcasing her adaptability and resilience.

“The Shining” (1980) – Danny’s Perception of the Overlook Hotel’s Sounds

Young Danny Torrance (Danny Lloyd) roams the Overlook Hotel, initially intrigued by its sounds—the humming elevators, distant voices, and echoing hallways. As supernatural events intensify, these sounds become ominous and threatening. The change mirrors Danny’s growing awareness of the hotel’s malevolent forces and his own psychic abilities, deepening his fear and caution.

“The Bridge on the River Kwai” (1957) – Colonel Nicholson’s Reaction to Construction Sounds

Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness) hears the sounds of bridge construction as a testament to his men’s discipline and engineering prowess. Initially, the hammering and sawing are sources of pride. As he becomes obsessively attached to the project, the same sounds signify his loss of objectivity and alignment with the enemy, highlighting his internal conflict and eventual realization of misplaced priorities.

“The Graduate” (1967) – Benjamin’s Experience with Scuba Diving Sounds

Benjamin Braddock (Dustin Hoffman) receives a scuba suit as a gift. When submerged, the muffled sounds of the outside world intensify his feelings of isolation and suffocation. Initially a novelty, the underwater sounds become symbolic of his disconnect from societal expectations, reflecting his internal struggle and desire to break free from imposed paths.

“Close Encounters of the Third Kind” (1977) – Roy Neary’s Interaction with Electronic Hum

Roy Neary (Richard Dreyfuss) experiences strange electronic hums and tones after an encounter with a UFO. Initially unsettling, these sounds become an obsession, driving him to seek answers. The shift from fear to fascination reflects his transformation from an ordinary man to someone consumed by a quest for understanding, altering his relationships and priorities.

“The Exorcist” (1973) – Regan’s Reaction to House Noises

Young Regan MacNeil (Linda Blair) hears scratching and thumping noises in the attic, initially dismissed as rats. As her possession intensifies, these sounds become more violent and pervasive. The change in perception underscores her loss of innocence and the growing supernatural influence over her, highlighting the family’s escalating fear and desperation.

“The Deer Hunter” (1978) – Michael’s Perception of Russian Roulette Clicks

Michael (Robert De Niro) endures the harrowing sound of the revolver’s empty clicks during forced games of Russian roulette. Initially a symbol of survival in captivity, the clicks haunt him upon returning home. The sound triggers traumatic memories, reflecting his inability to reintegrate into civilian life and the lasting impact of war on his psyche.

“Kramer vs. Kramer” (1979) – Ted Kramer’s Interaction with Kitchen Sounds

Kramer (Dustin Hoffman) is unaccustomed to domestic tasks after his wife leaves. The clattering of dishes and kitchen mishaps initially represent his incompetence and frustration. As he learns to care for his son, these sounds become part of a comforting routine, reflecting his growth into a nurturing father and his shift in priorities from career to family.

“Blade Runner” (1982) – Rick Deckard’s Perception of City Ambience

Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) navigates a dystopian city filled with constant rain and mechanical noises. Initially, the ambient sounds signify a bleak and impersonal environment. As he develops empathy for replicants, especially Rachael, the same sounds take on a melancholic beauty, reflecting his internal conflict about identity and humanity.

Raging Bull” (1980) – Jake LaMotta’s Experience with Crowd Noise

Boxer Jake LaMotta (Robert De Niro) hears the roaring crowd as a measure of his success and dominance in the ring. Over time, as his personal life deteriorates, the crowd’s cheers become hollow and distant. The changing perception of this sound mirrors his isolation and self-destructive tendencies, emphasizing the cost of his aggression on his relationships and self-worth.

“Eraserhead” (1977) – Henry Spencer’s Perception of Industrial Sounds

Henry (Jack Nance) lives in a nightmarish industrial landscape where mechanical noises permeate his environment. Initially, these sounds are part of his mundane existence. As surreal events unfold, the noises become more oppressive and anxiety-inducing, reflecting his deepening fears and inability to cope with his new responsibilities, such as fatherhood.

“Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969) – Butch’s Reaction to Train Sounds

Butch (Paul Newman) and Sundance (Robert Redford) hear the distant sounds of a train approaching during a planned robbery. Initially, the sounds signal opportunity and excitement. As they become pursued by a relentless posse, the train’s whistle transforms into a symbol of impending danger and the encroachment of modernity, reflecting their fading era and Butch’s recognition of inevitable change.

“The French Connection” (1971) – Popeye Doyle’s Perception of Subway Sounds

Detective Popeye Doyle (Gene Hackman) engages in a tense stakeout and chase involving the subway. The screeching of train wheels and the clattering tracks intensify his focus and determination. As the case wears on, these sounds become synonymous with his obsessive pursuit, reflecting his relentless nature and blurring the line between dedication and compulsion.

“On the Waterfront” (1954) – Terry Malloy’s Reaction to Ship Horns

Malloy (Marlon Brando) hears the constant blare of ship horns at the docks. Initially, the sounds are part of his everyday life as a dockworker involved with corrupt union bosses. After confronting his conscience, the horns become a call to action, symbolizing his awakening sense of justice and courage to stand against corruption, marking his moral evolution.