Who Can We Complain About When Music in TV Shows and Films Is Too Loud?

Many viewers find themselves in an increasingly common predicament: the music in their favorite TV shows and films continually drowns out the dialogue, leaving them to repeatedly hit the volume button. This issue has become so pervasive that it leads to frustration and, in some cases, the premature wearing out of these important buttons on our devices. But who can we turn to when our volume control fails in addressing this issue?

The Insulation of Big Media Distributors

Big media distributors and streaming platforms have built a system that insulates them from direct user complaints. These entities have done an effective job of reducing the channels through which viewers can directly communicate their grievances. Over the years, this has made it more challenging for individuals to report issues such as disproportionately loud soundtracks.

Writing to Production Companies for Relief

One possible avenue for relief is to write a letter or email to the production companies of the films or TV shows you are watching. Most productions feature numerous logos and credits, making it relatively easy to locate contact information for the companies involved. These production companies often have a department dedicated to handling viewer and user feedback, and reaching out to them may be more effective than dealing with the distributors.

The Role of Film Composers and Sound Mixing

As a film composer myself, I have experienced the nuances of sound mixing several times. In most cases, the goal is to strike a balance between the music and the dialogue. A good composer will craft music that complements the dialog, rather than overpowering it. However, there are instances where music is elevated in volume, not because it's inherently necessary, but due to production constraints. When a project is over-budget or the sound department fails to provide a high-quality mix, elements like subtle sound effects, such as footsteps or clothing rustling (often referred to as foley), may be missing. In such cases, music steps in to fill the gaps and maintain the integrity of the sound mix.

Understanding the Sound Mixing Process

The sound mixing process is a complex and collaborative effort that involves multiple layers and components. It is not uncommon for the final sound mix to involve several elements, including music, dialogue, sound effects, and ambient noises. Each component must be balanced carefully to ensure that no single element overpowers the others. Film composers often prioritize enhancing the overall soundstage, which can sometimes mean boosting the music without compromising the dialogue.

However, it's important to recognize that there are also periods where a louder soundtrack is detrimental. This can be particularly disruptive in scenes that require the audience to focus on the dialogues or subtle sound effects. In such instances, a disparity between the volume levels of the music and the dialogue can clash with the intended narrative and affect the viewer's experience.

Conclusion

While big media distributors have insulated themselves from user complaints, reaching out to the production companies can be a more effective solution when dealing with issues such as music drowning out dialogue. Sound mixing and the role of film composers play a crucial part in balancing these elements. By understanding the complexities of sound mixing and the intentions behind certain volume choices, we can better appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating the audio for our favorite media.

Keywords: volume control, sound mixing, film composers