The Controversy Surrounding Inaudible Dialogues in Christopher Nolans Tenet
The Controversy Surrounding Inaudible Dialogues in Christopher Nolan's Tenet
In 2020, many moviegoers increasingly sought what could be described as a lazy approach to storytelling. They wanted narratives that required no mental effort, with clear dialogues, audible music, and straightforward visuals. Contrast this with Christopher Nolan's cinematic universe, where his films challenge audiences to engage their minds and work to understand complex concepts and chaotic soundscapes.
The Verdict: It's Not a Controversy, But a Noticeable Flaw
Thomas Tenet, in his review, points out that the film's audio mix is a noticeable mistake. In the first half of the movie, when the score reaches a crescendo during action sequences or grandiose moments, the dialogue is often drowned out. This issue becomes particularly problematic given that Tenet is a movie that plays with time travel, making it challenging for viewers to follow the plot. The confusion arises not only from the plot's complexity but also from the auditory environment of the film, which could easily alienate those struggling to grasp the nuances of the story.
Understanding Nolan's Intentions: An Exercise in Reconsideration
Thomas suggests that rather than dismissing Nolan's decision, one should consider the possibility that it was made with intent. He posits, "Seriously why can’t you loosen up your thinking and actually consider it: why did he want to write it this way?" While Thomas doesn't provide concrete reasons, it's worth exploring why Nolan might have deliberately crafted a film where aural elements consume much of the narrative space.
Exploring the Role of Sound in Modern Cinema
The modern movie experience, as outlined by Thomas, often relies on a barrage of ambient sounds, which can sometimes interfere with the clarity of dialogue. This trend, exemplified by directors such as John Williams, is in direct contrast to the minimalist approach taken by directors like Peter Yates in Bullitt. In this film, Thomas observes, the audio is minimal and free from extraneous noise, providing a more authentic and immersive experience (even though the film is from 1968).
Unique Examples: Silence as an Agent of Realism
Thomas highlights the opening scene of Army of Shadows (Armée des Ombres) and the film's portrayal of silence. This scene, directed by Jean-Pierre Melville, removes any ambient noise that could detract from the viewer's engagement. The lack of music or unnecessary dialogue leaves the audience tensions and emotions intact, making the film more impactful. The silence here creates a sense of realism, allowing the viewer to empathize deeply with the characters.
Challenging the Status Quo in Filmmaking
While Christopher Nolan's films are celebrated for their intricate narratives and bold styles, Thomas expresses a critical stance, pushing back against the norms in modern filmmaking. He suggests that the quality of sound recording and sound design in films today often falls short, and filmmakers too often rely on post-production fixes. Even with respected directors, there's a tendency to prioritize visual spectacle over audio clarity.
Conclusion: A Call to Reevaluate Modern Cinematic Practices
The controversy over inaudible dialogues in Tenet serves as a challenge to the sound design trends in modern cinema. As film critics and audiences, we should demand more from our filmmakers, insisting on clear, well-recorded dialogue and a meticulous approach to sound design. A more immersive and authentic cinematic experience can be achieved by returning to the principles of directors like Peter Yates and Jean-Pierre Melville, who prioritize realism and clarity over excess and noise.