Question

How is sound in The Shining used to create suspense?

Answer 1

We all know that a good music can make a movie more effective for its audience and increase their engagement manifold. If the soundtrack is better used in horror movies then only this suspenseful music can produce complete difference. The biggest example of this was 'The Shining' movie released in 1980, which changed the direction and making of horror movies. Two elements were used to create a suspenseful sound in this movie: Tension and Revulsion. In The Shining, fear was maintained by careful balance of both these elements, for which suspense music and horror music were given attention. Tension builds slowly, as the actress moves near the door, the tension of ghosts behind the door increases, and if suspenseful music is used on such a scene, then the effect of horror increases manifold. In revulsion, ghost comes behind the actress instead of behind the door, thus horror music is used here. The balance of suspenseful and horror music in tension and revulsion has made 'The Shining' a milestone for horror. Synthesizers and strings were used in these suspense music. The sound of the synthesizer is deep and eerie and its effect is enhanced with the help of string. In this way a movie like 'The Shining' may not get oscar but it can make your sleep scary for many days.