How would one appreciate something one can’t see? How would it be if that piece of work is something that is not supposed to be noticed, but has to highlight something else? How would one agree to put time and effort on something that can never be seen, never be felt, and still has to engage someone’s emotion? How can one put a value for an effort for something that’s close to an illusion?

How can one truly be appreciated for doing something that has all the qualities listed above? That’s what makes it an invisible art form. You can’t see, can feel, and hear. This is the true design in sound. A master of this art form in its true sense is a true sound designer. Why? He creates. He takes the pain, effort, and time. He strains a good amount both physically and mentally. Why? So that in the end, everyone can enjoy something they aren’t supposed to know is there.

Is it subliminal? No. Not necessary. Who would know that the posh hotel that you see in the movie is actually a 10 X 10 set? The lasers that are fired are imaginary? The punch into the face is inches away? That is where something believable is created. People have said that sound is 20 % of the total impact. I don’t believe in that. I feel that if not 50%, it’s at least 49.9% there. Why? Otherwise, who would think that the magic spells are actually nothing? Would a Dinosaur scare you by looks? Would you get scared of a haunted house?

It is not just the presence of sound that matters always. It is the intelligent use of silence that matters too. it truly is an invisible art form. It mesmerizes, surprises, is invisible and if done right, is astounding. It’s called Magic.

So, are we magicians? Maybe. Maybe not. But we definitely are illusionists.