Bolt Development Work [Post Ten]

All of the effects that have been implemented to the project now require a mix-down and master process. This has mainly involved the use of compression as well as using an equaliser tool on various tracks in order to maintain the soundtrack.

I was also able to use a pitch shifter plug-in for the dialogue tracks, this allowed me to adjust various pitches for the voices, so that the characters all sound different.

The music track has been broken into various parts in order to suit the chase sequence. Also, due to the helicopter clip that occurs in slow motion, I made the decision to stop the soundtrack completely, which has required me to re-introduce the music once this scene had occurred. I was able to choose an appropriate point within the music and continue with the soundtrack exactly from when Bolt makes a hard landing following the slow motion clip.

Bolt Development Work [Post Nine]

With all of the required sound effects, Foley, dialogue and music implemented to the workstation, I was able to begin the mix-down session for the chase sequence. All of the effects have been carefully placed in the appropriate locations by using the visual markers as well as referring to the cue sheet which contains the exact time frame locations.

 A considerable amount of the implemented effects have required automation in order to suit what is happening in the visuals. By delicately sketching with the automation tool, I have been able to make appropriate use of the sound.

As the characters within the sequence move from one spot to another, or when a vehicle approaches from a specific location, or even when a certain event occurs at a specific angle, this normally requires some kind of automation, so that the sound matches up with the visuals. 

 In order to create the profound, thrilling and swift impression for the chase through the use of the soundtrack, it's required me to emphasise certain sound effects. By simply increasing the volume at precise moments (eg. Bolts footsteps as he approaches closer to the first person screenshot) it can help create a sense that the character is getting closer to the screen. Automation has also been supportive for providing a sense of where sounds need to be between the left and right speakers (e.g. helicopter approaches from the right side of the screen and leaves to the left) and so the sound follows this visual through the use of automation. 

Bolt Development Work [Post Eight]

A musical score known as 'the Desperate Chase' from the Metal Gear Solid series has been implemented to the project. Through careful consideration, I have been able to listen to a variety of musical scores that are used in similar sequences, and selected this particular score due to the nature of the track sitting perfectly with the visuals.

Chase sequence soundtrack - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDPW4AJ9fcI

This score matches the tempo of the visuals perfectly, as well as provides a lively and dramatic musical underscore. This type of soundtrack assists with what is going on with the visuals, as the tension continues to develop as Bolt and his companion are being pursued throughout the clip.

Bolt Development Work [Post Seven]

In terms of the musical underscore, I have been researching various chase sequences used in other films as well as games, in order to get a better understanding of what the soundtrack should be doing to exhilarate the viewers. The Bolt chase sequence is quick, thrilling and overall very alive. By thoroughly watching and listening to similar chase sequences I was able to grasp a better idea of what I needed for a musical underscore. 

Chase sequences that have been viewed included

> Monsters Inc - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbMYtIfKhAw

> Back to the Future - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZJ7cq6T3v4

> Toy Story Chase Sequence - (clip unavailable)

> The Dark Knight - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCQxhof9RlI

> Death Proof - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btjQ0Ty6o2M

> Casino Royal - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZxNbAwY_rk

> Jurassic Park - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxqHVoZ0fzc

> District B13 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GpOroM0g80

> Cars 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLRvoEwflYc

> Despicable Me 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYcB5SJfZog

> Uncharted: Among Thieves - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_9GOUeSRog&list=PL72B46AE549748000

> Final Fantasy: Eden Under Siege - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fsn8bJIP2UQ&list=PLF2588F690A75E5F6

> Metal Gear Solid: the Guns of the Patriots - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46tuhPn-Tsw&list=PLA44D6017A9CE2C5D

> Mirrors Edge - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sW9tzzVs158&list=PLD334A4E66B2E31EF

All of the above videos contained soundtracks that were originally composed for chase sequences. By carefully listening to the above scores I have been able to develop a sense of the required tempo for what the Bolt clip should be. Although most of these chases vary with speed and intensity, the music continues to be rapid, upbeat and stimulating.