Screenwriting sound and music: Towards a new field of study

Abstract

Extensive research in film and media studies on film music and sound has delved into various aspects of their role in cinema, recognizing their significance. However, a crucial element in film production – the screenplay – has often been overlooked in the exploration of sound and music integration. Concurrently, studies on screenwriting have displayed limited interest in the acoustic dimensions of film, creating a research gap where film music studies intersect with screenwriting studies. This Special Issue aims to address this gap by emphasizing the screenplay’s importance in comprehending the role of sound and music in film. This introduction showcases the diverse ways in which music and sound are integrated into screenplays. The ongoing exploration of screenplays for the analysis of sound and music sets the stage for future research endeavours. The editors and authors of this Special Issue advocate for the screenplay as a valuable resource in film music studies, providing innovative insights into the film production process.