Journal Entry – Week 5

Fully synchronized sound was used in Steamboat Willie, which was the first film Mickey Mouse starred in. The music is used to set a certain mood in the film. For example, the main melody of the film is jolly and jovial, which presents a lighthearted tone. The music intensifies whenever there’s a strong action that’s occurring, such as an impact or a chase

Fully synchronized sound was used in Steamboat Willie, which was the first film Mickey Mouse starred in. The music is used to set a certain mood in the film. For example, the main melody of the film is jolly and jovial, which presents a lighthearted tone. The music intensifies whenever there’s a strong action that’s occurring, such as an impact or a chase. The use of brass is prominent when portraying an intense action. The octave of the sound effects is also very important for showing character. Mickey uses higher octave sounds because of his smaller stature and playful nature, while Pete’s sounds are more beastly and lower octave.

The use of fully synchronized sound in Steamboat Willie played a vital role in emphasizing the actions and emotions of the characters. An example of this is Mickey Mouse’s use of animals as musical instruments. The scene where Mickey and Minnie use a goat as a musical instrument in Steamboat Willie is a great example of how the film uses synchronized sound to emphasize the characters’ actions and personalities. As Minnie turns his tail like some sort of record player music notes come out of his mouth corresponding to the sound heard. This technique showcases the filmmaker’s innovative approach to sound in animation.

Furthermore, the use of sound in Steamboat Willie also reveals key aspects of the characters’ personalities. Mickey Mouse is portrayed as troublesome and happy go lucky through his use of musical instruments and whistling. The sounds associated with Mickey are often high-pitched and cheerful, creating a lighthearted atmosphere. Conversely, the captain is portrayed as a grumpy and authoritarian figure through his gruff voice and the heavy, menacing sounds of his footsteps. The contrasting sounds used for Mickey and the captain help to create a clear distinction between their characters and roles in the story.

I’d say that grumpy is one of the funniest characters. His body language is telling he doesn’t show emotion due to his tough expression. Doc is different he is a calm funny and kind person as the leader he is the opposite one. His body language tells how he led and treat Snow White like a friend. The funniest I ever seen is that snow white asking grumpy did he wash is hand but he refused to wash his hand. He sticks his tongue at snow White and walks away. Doc on the other head listens to Snow White because I mean the other dwarfs. What is funny is that doc and the other dwarfs force grumpy to wash him up and left him behind.

I’d say Bashful and Grumpy are depicted as opposites. Bashful has the body language of hiding himself behind his beard and not making direct eye contact, and turning red with embarrassment, while Grumpy is direct in facing Snow White and crossing his arms across his chest. Also Bashful seems to fumble when trying to speak, while Grumpy makes dismissive noises, and has an agressive, disapproving, and impatient tone. Bashful is self- conscious but has a sweet nature, and Grumpy is not ashamed to have no manners. I think it’s cute how Snow White is gentle with Bashful and then playful and pokes fun about Grumpy’s disposition.