Fantastic Beasts and their Sonic Nature

Abstract

This article explores sound designs for the five distinct collaborations across the eight Harry Potter films, each of which carved new ways of achieving story cohesion and continuity, and for seeing, hearing, and caring about Harry’s journey. Particularly when we examine the role of animals, we find sound that intermediates between the known and unknown, distilling themes and subtexts, and revealing inner conflicts. I give special attention to the fifth and sixth films (Order of the Phoenix and Half-Blood Prince) in which audio elements are sensually integrated, allowing us to understand narratives through feeling and physical sensation rather than prescriptive cueing. Musicalised sound effects introduce underscore; underscore takes over for effects in this powerfully nuanced approach that makes space for viewers to experience—rather than merely witness—how Harry navigates varied spheres and circumstances. Further, this approach makes a critical impact on the emotional arc of the story, significantly deepening viewer experience of Harry’s most transformative personal and emotional moments.