There are two types of sound used in video known as diegetic and non-diegetic. In this blog I will explain the difference between the two and show some examples.
Diegetic Sound
This is the sound that relates to action on the screen where the source of the sound can also be seen. Also known as actual sound – it is the sound that is coming from within the world of the film such as:
- character dialogue
- sounds made by people or objects
- music from instruments or equipment
One of the most famous scenes using diegetic sound to great effect is in Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now. By including a tape player in the scene to play Wagner’s Ride of the Valkyries throughout the scene it ensures all sound is diegetic which increases the level of realism and helps create a willing suspension of disbelief.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wi0nzmqp47A
Non-Diegetic Sound
This is the sound that isn’t implied to come from the action on the screen and the source of the sound cannot be seen. It can be said to originate from outside the world of the film such as:
- narration or voiceover commentary
- soundtrack music
- sound effects only for dramatic effect
In this example from the final scene of the iconic original Blade Runner movie the non-diegetic soundtrack is used to great effect. To increase tension an orchestral percussion hit is used as an effect to add to the diegetic sound of the character leaping from one building to another at 23 seconds in the clip below.
There are times when the same sound can be used for both diegetic and non-diegetic purposes. This can be used to great dramatic effect and in this example from The Amazing Spiderman 2 is used as a transitional tool suggesting a change in attitude in the character. At 1:07 minutes Peter Parker removes the earphones but the music he was listening to continues for the audience.
Hypogeal Music 