Actors of Sound

Actors of Sound
1h 38min | Documentary | VOD Release Date: February 27, 2018

Synopsis: From footsteps to bone cracks, Foley artists bring films to life with their imaginative sound effects, but as digital technology goes full speed ahead in 21st century moviemaking, can Hollywood’s low tech Foley artist survive in this high tech age?

Review: Like most people I have played around in iMovie and added some sound effects using the Foley folder. But to be honest I had no idea what the name meant. It sort of bothered me. Seemed like a dumb name for footsteps and ticking clocks, but five minutes in to the documentary ACTORS OF SOUND it all made sense. I watch a lot of movies and never knew how much I take for granted. This film is not only an eye opener but certainly an ear opener as well.

What is fascinating about Foley artists (creates audio effects for a film by using physical props) is not only their dedication to the craft but the ingenuity of the art. These people live and breath in the world of sound. The are like American Pickers but instead of looking at items for their resell or history they are more concerned with what noises they can get from them.

The documentary is an equal balance history lesson and art of the craft. Both are quite fascinating. In a world where everything is technology based and created by a few key strokes these men and women are pioneers and the last thread of a dying medium. Their passion for what they do is contagious. You sort of get the sad feeling that no one ever asks them about what they do. They are such a vital part of the finished product but get very little notariety. They aren’t bitter but instead excited to share what they do. It is refreshing.