Music and Sound effects in a title sequence; "Jaws"

 In the lesson we were shown the opening scene of "Jaws" because the music and sound effects play a big part in creating a certain chilling and tense atmosphere throughout the sequence.

Even beofre the visulas begin, a low water-like sound is played, which immediately creates a dark and eerie atmosphere. Gradually more sounds are overlapped and built on top of the original sound, which builds tension and suspense. The visuals onscreen show an underwater shot of dark murky waters and I think it could present a P.O.V. shot from the shark's perspective. I think the layers of music could symbolize a shark approaching it's prey.

We are also introduced to the classic, well-known piece of music associated with "Jaws". We hear the sound of a horn, which sounds very familiar to a hunting horn, also we hear a sound similar to a sonar. These sounds are both assosiated with with hunting and therefore creates a deathly atmosphere. The music has a serious tone as it is made up of orchestral instruments.

However this non-diagetic sound changes to diagetic as the sequence cuts to the next scene. The tone and atmosphere changes greatly to a calmer, more relaxed scene in which we hear gentle voices and we hear and see people playing informal instruments such as guitars and harmonicas. This contrasting tension and serentity fluctuate to keep the audience interested and on the edges of their seats.