225 - Director Robert Eggers and the Bloodcurdling Sound of Nosferatu

Visionary director Robert Eggers joins forces with acclaimed sound artist Damian Volpe to deliver a stunning reimagining of the classic vampire tale “Nosferatu.” In this episode, Eggers and Volpe take us behind the scenes to discuss how they used cutting-edge sound design and Dolby Atmos® to create a truly terrifying and immersive experience. From the spectral sounds of Count Orlok’s castle to the brilliant use of silence and dynamic range, this conversation unpacks the intricate audio techniques that make the film so unforgettable.

“I mean, it begins even before [the first scene] with the quote-unquote logo animations. [We] recreated silent film-style logos… with audio analog hiss and some wind, which morph into each other. You know, I think these horror film cold openings that end with a jump scare, when they’re done successfully… keep you on edge of your seat for the rest of the film because… you know that anything’s possible.”

—Robert Eggers - Director, Writer, and Producer, “Nosferatu”

Joining today’s conversation:

- Damian Volpe - Sound Designer, Supervising Sound Editor, and Re-recording Mixer

- Robert Eggers - Director, Writer, and Producer

Damian Volpe also wanted to thank his fellow team members:

- Steve Little - Sound Supervisor

- David Giammarco - Re-recording Mixer

- Michael Fentum - Sound Designer

- Heikki Kossi - Foley Artist

- Shelley Rodin - Foley Artist

- Joel Raabe - Foley Editor/Mixer

- Grace Wong - Assistant Sound Editor

- Tim Hands - ADR Editor

- Samir Foco - Sound Effects Editor

Be sure to check out “Nosferatu” in theaters and Dolby Cinemas®, in Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos®, when it premieres in the U.S. on December 25th.

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