A Study on Composing for Film

Abstract

The goal of this creative project is to examine the process of scoring a film, particularly within the drama, thriller, and sci-fi genres. In the written portion, I examine the methods that three different composers used for three different films. These films are The Lighthouse composed by Mark Korven, Under the Skin composed by Mica Levi, and Enemy composed by Danny Bensi and Saunder Jurriaans. I analyze how the scores augment the mood of the films, discussing the instrumentation and composition in each scene. In the creative portion, I have composed the score for a short film where I attempt to implement the methods discussed in the written component of this project. The film follows an isolated man who becomes delusional as his way of life is threatened by outsiders. The score uses chaotic instrumentation and dissonant composition to reflect the story of the film.