Sound Masters: Slumdog Millionaire

In 2008, the world was introduced to “sleeper-hit” Slumdog Millionaire. Once theatrically released in 2009, it would go on to be nominated for 10 Academy Awards and win 8, including Best Sound Mixing. It’s rare that this award goes to a film that isn’t action-oriented, but this sound team earned it by creating extra anxiety where they could while maintaining clear and in-place sound. In today’s scene, we showcase how Slumdog Millionaire’s sound designers were able to create tension with a low drone and a repeating ringtone juxtaposed over the silence of Latika running through the crowded streets. This effect not only creates a more fantastic setting, but also perfectly captures the idea of flashbacks and storytelling that’s happening in real-time with the plot.

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