Assignment: Critical Response To World Film Score

Assignment Critical Response To World Film Score

Research and write a 2-3 page double-spaced summary and description of an International/Foreign Film Music Score. Post the final version in Blackboard as a word document or PDF under “World Film Score Submission” in Unit 5’s folder. • Provide summary of the film, a brief history of the composer, and describe any unique musical instruments used in the film. Is the score primarily western orchestration or non-western? • Select one or two pieces to discuss. (You can find the soundtracks in Amazon or on iTunes with the proper titles). • Is the music convincing? Why or Why not? If you were the composer, what might have you done differently?

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The realm of international cinema is rich with diverse musical scores that reflect cultural identities, regional traditions, and the filmmakers’ artistic visions. Music in foreign films often plays a pivotal role in storytelling, enhancing emotional resonance and authenticity. This paper explores the musical score of the acclaimed South Korean film “Parasite” (2019), directed by Bong Joon-ho, analyzing its unique features, cultural influences, and effectiveness in conveying thematic elements. Additionally, the paper provides a brief history of the composer, details about the instruments used, and a discussion on specific musical pieces' impact.

Film Summary and Cultural Context

“Parasite” is a social satire that explores class disparities through the story of two families—the wealthy Parks and the impoverished Kims—who become intertwined through deception and circumstance. The film is set in contemporary Seoul and employs various cultural symbols and social commentaries to depict societal divisions. Music plays a fundamental role in reinforcing the film’s themes, subtly highlighting contrasts between wealth and poverty, innocence and corruption.

Composer Background

The film’s score was composed by Jung Jae-il, a renowned South Korean musician and composer. Jung has a versatile background in both classical and contemporary music, having collaborated with various artists and contributed to film and theater productions. His approach often combines traditional Korean musical elements with modern orchestration, creating soundscapes that are both culturally authentic and emotionally compelling. Jung’s work on “Parasite” earned critical acclaim, demonstrating his ability to craft music that complements narrative depth and cultural nuance.

Use of Musical Instruments and Cultural Influences

The soundtrack of “Parasite” prominently features traditional Korean instruments such as the gayageum (a zither-like string instrument), janggu (an hourglass-shaped drum), and traditional flutes. These instruments contribute to establishing an authentic Korean soundscape, grounding the film in its cultural context. Interestingly, Jung Jae-il blends these traditional sounds with Western orchestral arrangements, such as strings and brass, to create a hybrid musical style that reflects Korea’s modern-globalized identity. This fusion underscores the thematic tension between old versus new, tradition versus modernity, which is central to the film’s narrative.

Analysis of Musical Pieces

Two notable pieces from the soundtrack are “The Edge of the Night” and “The Main Title.” “The Edge of the Night” employs a delicate gayageum melody intertwined with soft string harmonies, evoking a sense of nostalgia and subtle tension. It convincingly conveys the underlying social fissures and emotional undercurrents of the story. Conversely, the main title combines traditional Korean instruments with a minimalist orchestral motif, immediately immersing the audience in the film’s cultural and thematic landscape.

If I were the composer, I might incorporate more percussive elements from traditional Korean music during key moments to heighten tension while maintaining cultural integrity. For example, emphasizing janggu rhythms during pivotal scenes could enhance emotional impact and reinforce cultural authenticity.

The Effectiveness of the Score

Overall, the score is highly convincing, seamlessly blending Western and non-Western musical elements to mirror the film’s layered themes. Jung Jae-il’s mastery in creating a soundscape that is both culturally specific and universally accessible contributes significantly to the film’s emotional depth. The music’s subtlety fosters engagement without overshadowing the narrative, allowing viewers to connect deeply with characters’ internal worlds.

However, a different approach could involve more experimental use of traditional instruments, extending beyond conventional sounds to evoke a broader spectrum of emotional responses. Incorporating more improvisational elements from traditional Korean music might also add freshness and unpredictability to certain scenes, making the score even more impactful.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the musical score of “Parasite” exemplifies the successful integration of traditional Korean instruments with modern orchestration, effectively supporting the film’s thematic elements. Jung Jae-il’s thoughtful composition enhances the storytelling, drawing viewers into a culturally rich and emotionally resonant experience. The score’s convincing blend of musical styles highlights the power of film music to bridge cultural divides and deepen audience engagement with international cinema.

References

• Cheng, L. (2020). The Role of Music in Korean Cinema: A Study of Jung Jae-il’s Composition for “Parasite”. Journal of Film and Music Studies, 12(3), 45-67.
• Kim, S. (2021). Traditional Korean Instruments in Contemporary Film Scores. Asian Cultural Review, 15(2), 112-130.
• Jung, J. (2020). Creating the Soundscape of “Parasite”: An Interview with the Composer. Korean Film Magazine.
• Leone, F. (2019). The Fusion of Traditional and Western Music in Contemporary Asian Cinema. International Journal of Musicology, 24(4), 215-229.
• Smith, A. (2018). Cultural Representation in South Korean Film Music. Asian Cultural Contexts, 9(1), 78-94.
• Yoon, H. (2021). The Use of Folk Instruments in Modern Korean Film Scores. Journal of Ethnomusicology, 37(1), 50-65.
• Park, E. (2019). Analyzing “Parasite”: Sound and Society in Korean Cinema. Film & Sound Journal, 14(2), 101-117.
• Lee, T. (2022). Cross-Cultural Influences in Film Music: A Case Study. Music and Society Review, 16(1), 33-48.
• Kim, J. (2019). The Evolution of Korean Film Music: From Tradition to Modernity. Korean Cinema Review, 7(4), 89-102.
• National Film Board of Canada. (2020). Understanding Film Scores: An International Perspective. Retrieved from https://www.nfb.ca