Pirates Of The Caribbean: Curse Of The Black Pearl Non Diegetic & Diegetic Sounds.

Diegetic Sound - sound which is visible on screen; sound which the actors can hear. During the escape scene in Pirates of the Caribbean we see the extensive use of diegetic sound. We can tell from the set that the scene takes place on a jetty; this is backed up by the fact that we can hear the waves crashing in the background. The diegetic sound of sabres and swords clicking and being taken from scabbards this displays the constant threat for Jack Sparrows life. This sound is used repeatedly throughout this scene which shows that there is no escape for Sparrow as there are two many guards. There is also constant use of footsteps in the background that backs up my earlier point that there is a large number of guards. We see commodore Norrington put away his sword as we hear the familiar sound of the grazing of sword and Scabbards this calms the viewers, as it seems Sparrows life shall be spared. The iconic compass that Sparrow carry’s with him at all times squeaks revealing that it is old and antique like which could display sentimental values furthermore this shows the viewers a lot about sparrows past that he isn’t well off. There is no use of non diegetic sound up to now; however there has been great use of silence as this shows the viewers that things are beginning to build up to a climax.

  Sparrow is handcuffed in shackles, which gives of a typical chain sound. This gives the viewers a false sense of security that justice has been done. Suddenly a large booming bass non-diegetic noise rings as Sparrow threatens Miss Swan, this is effective as it is the first non-diegetic sound, and this shocks the viewer and prepares them for the climax that they have all been waiting for. We then continue with the non-diegetic, as there is a lingering violin, which plays a deep, ghastly tune; this scares the viewer as they know something merciless will happen next. Sparrow has captured the attention of the viewers now. The music begins the pick up increasing in volume. There is diegetic sound here, it is of chains rattling, this displays Miss Swans struggle and knowledge that she is in danger. Finally we have reached the climax, the music has climbed in volume to almost full capacity. Sparrow cleverly begins his escape by kicking what seems to be a metal bolt to shoot him into the air. We can hear the sound of the cogs spinning shooting Sparrow into the air, this is a harsh metallic sound. The classic Pirates of The Caribbean theme tune blasts out at full beat as sparrow’s escape begins. This diegetic sound is upbeat and matches the action occurring in the scene. Sparrow is escaping quickly therefore the music should have a fast beat to match it.

We then hear the sounds of gun shots which displays the imminent threat towards Sparrow. We hear the sound of Sparrows chains rubbing against the rope; this is a harsh searing sound which adds to the effect of Sparrows escape. Finally we see Sparrow complete his escape as we can hear the non-diegetic sound of Sparrows’ footsteps and the chasing of guards after him. The music in this scene depicts the universal soundtrack of the saga. The use of silence in the scene is effective as when the diegetic sound begins it is noticeable to the viewer.

This scene has effective use of Diegetic and Non- Diegetic sound which really catches the viewers attention.