Although I strongly value the importance of soundtracking within screen composition, I don’t personally often use this method myself. My approach to sound for screen consists of a variety of techniques. However, as I have developed the work I have found for serious pieces such as ‘We Need To Talk About Kevin’ music does not support the director’s intentions. Lynn Ramsey’s deliberate focus on the vulgarity of Kevin’s crimes on screen makes me feel that music juxtaposes the honest effect Ramsey is trying to portray. Music does provide a layer of beauty to a scene, however with coarse serious work such as this, it takes the viewer away from the scene. With uncomfortable shots and recurring motifs of blood, the film portrays difficult senses for the viewer. Soundtracks within the score detach the viewer from the severity of the scene. Finally, Lynne Ramsay’s work is filmed from a constant POV (Point Of View) from the mother. Soundtracks subtly tell the viewer where the point of view is taken. Music almost provides an Acousmêtre effect so it is undeniable that soundtracks create added value.
Despite this, I have chosen to create my score on a layer of multiple sound effects and field recordings edited to create its own type of score. With different effects added, mixed and sounds that represent certain themes layered together; the score builds a fabric for an intense sonic atmosphere.