THE AVENGERS: SOUND

PREP Watch the first 10 minutes (after the title sequence is over) of The Avengers on Clickview. Analyse how sound is used in the extract to create meaning. You can use any part of the opening scenes - both the opening scene at the seaside at Little Bazeley or the scene in Emma Peel's flat

• first identify an example - use terminology such as diegetic sound, non-diegetic sound, dialogue.
• then give the example - " Little Bazeley is constructed as a seaside village through realistic sound codes such as..."
• "One example of how sound is used is when Steed makes conversation with Emma Peel..."
• then explain what meaning is created - "In the exchange of dialogue between the fisherman and the undercover agent who arrives from the sea they talk about...... which creates suspicion and comedy because....."
• "Steed's dialogue reveals his accent and shows that he is..." "What Steed says to Emma Peel suggests that he feels in charge because...." /  "Emma's comment about the coffee and cream show that..." / "Emma's throwaway comment about having just finished a scientific article shows that..."

At the start of the episode, it is clear we are by the seaside. This is enhanced through the use of diegetic sounds which include, seagulls and the sound of the waves. This helps the audience watching feel immersed and establishes the world of the story. The use of these realistic sounds create a sense of atmosphere that builds into the moment where an unknown shape emerges from the sea. The sound of the seagulls continuous cawing creates a feeling of tension.

The non-diegetic music used in this sequence is very distinctive and particular to the period. It starts with a menacing trumpet sound that creates an ominous sense that something unusual or dramatic might be about to happen. Then the music changes to a more light hearted percussive sound that reassures the audience and hints at a light hearted tone to the show. This strange combination in the music keeps the audience watching as they suspect something might happen but also reassures them this is a safe and comfortable show to watch. In 1961 the country was worried about the Cold War so they wanted to watch a show about spies that was entertaining but made them feel safe and this score works to enhance that.