All In Your Head

The '168- All In Your Head' episode of the '99% Invisible' podcast, hosted by Roman Mars, delves into the design of sound in horror, particularly focusing on the TV show 'Hannibal.' The episode begins with a discussion on how horror filmmakers use music to evoke fear, citing the work of evolutionary biologist Dan Blumstein. Blumstein outlines two primary ways to create scary sounds: using high-pitched, screechy tones that mimic the sounds of animals in distress, and low-frequency sounds that suggest the presence of something large and potentially dangerous. These techniques trigger a biological response, tapping into our primal fears.

The episode then transitions to an interview with David Slade, director and executive producer of 'Hannibal,' who explains the show's unique approach to sound design. The goal is to immerse the viewer in the mind of Will Graham, an FBI profiler with the eerie ability to reconstruct crime scenes in his head. Composer Brian Reitzel is responsible for the show's score, and he takes an unconventional approach by creating new, unidentifiable sounds that contribute to the unsettling atmosphere. Reitzel's process involves manipulating traditional instruments and using them in non-traditional ways to blur the lines between music and ambient noise.

The podcast further explores Reitzel's creative methods, such as using an upright bass to emulate the sound of a motorcycle or bowing a wood block to mimic the sound of heat. Reitzel's dedication to crafting these unique soundscapes is highlighted by his use of unconventional instruments like a Newton's cradle to represent the synapses firing in Will Graham's brain. The sound design team, led by Slade and Reitzel, employs a free associative approach, allowing the emotional context of the scenes to dictate the sound design.

The episode concludes with an in-depth look at the creation of a specific piece of music from the show, demonstrating how the collaboration between Reitzel and other musicians brings the haunting world of 'Hannibal' to life. The discussion encapsulates the meticulous care and innovative techniques that go into creating the immersive auditory experience that defines the show.