We chat with composer Danny Elfman about his new short film, A Danny Elfman Christmas Story — a whimsical exploration of the unlikely connection between one of Hollywood’s most inventive musical mind and the holiday season. From his hauntingly joyful work on The Nightmare Before Christmas to his fascination with the emotional balance between celebration and melancholy, Elfman’s take on Christmas music is anything but ordinary.
Written and Narrated by: Danny Elfman
Animation, Character, and Production Design: Pete Carsillo
Editing and Visual Effects: Jon Mann-Krieger
Audio Recording and Editing: Melisa McGregor
Fireside Photography: Bridget Fonda & Oliver Elfman
Music by: Bartholomew Zanzibar III
In our exclusive SoundWorks Collection we chat with Actor, comedian, musician Fred Armisen about creating his new album, 100 Sound Effects.The goal was to create a number of specific and evocative sounds, but in addition to being a fun listen—pure and simple—100 Sound Effects has great value as an industrial tool, with sounds ready to be used in any number of entertainment projects. Some follow the basic blueprint, like doors shutting and glass breaking. Others are more abstract scenarios. With a track like Campfire Breakfast Conversation, Fred notes:“They could be used in a movie or a show as a distant sound. Like: ‘Listen, I think I hear campers down that way!’ Those can also be played on outdoor speakers, if you want to make your backyard sound like a popular camping area.”The majority of the album was recorded in studios, but occasionally ambient sounds were needed. Rather than rely on other sound effects records, Fred went outside and captured them himself on a portable digital recorder, pointing it at the sky, a car, or whatever was required. Some sounds demanded extra effort.“Glass breaking seemed like an easy part of the album,” he recalls, “but I forgot that I’d actually have to break and clean up glass. There’s this place in Van Nuys where you pay to go in and smash glass. It’s all very safe, and you have to wear goggles and a jumpsuit. What a great idea for a business. I want to go back and curate a smash room.”Fred also wanted to recreate other specific moments not usually found on sound effects records, like Music Venue Employee Kicking Everyone Out While Throwing Away Bottles—a surprisingly common scene for many of us—while also including versions of his personal favorite effects, which resulted in tracks like Small Theater Booing.With additional help and inspiration from Bill Hader, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Amber Coffman, Tim Heidecker, Riki Lindhome, and Alice Carbone Tench, Fred had a lot of fun making the album. The result, Fred Armisen’s 100 Sound Effects, is a sound effects album like no other—a fantastic contemporary entry in a classic category that can be used as a practical library or enjoyed for brain-stimulating deep listening.
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection conversation, we chat with Oscar and Grammy-winning composer Gustavo Santaolalla and composer David Fleming about the emotional and sonic landscape of The Last of Us Season 2.The composers break down how they expanded the show’s haunting, intimate sound world—blending acoustic textures, raw instrumentation, and ambient tension to match the evolving journey of Ellie, Joel, and the world around them.
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection conversation, discover how composer Theodore Shapiro created the haunting and minimalist score for the Apple TV+ series Severance. Known for his work on a wide range of films and shows, Shapiro takes a darker turn with this eerie, atmospheric soundtrack.We explore the stark piano motifs, analog synths, and dissonant strings and how the music perfectly captures the unsettling world of Lumon Industries.SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE:http://bit.ly/SubscribeSoundWorksCollectionAUDIO PODCAST:https://linktr.ee/soundworkscollectionINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/soundworkscollection/TIKTOK:https://www.tiktok.com/@soundworkscollectionVIDEOS AND INDUSTRY NEWS:https://www.SoundWorksCollection.com
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection conversation, we chat with Grammy-winning composer Finneas O'Connell as he delves into the creation of the haunting score for Disclaimer, a psychological thriller directed by Alfonso Cuarón.Finneas shares his creative process, inspirations, and how he utilized different character themes to enhance the narrative's tension and intimacy.SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE:http://bit.ly/SubscribeSoundWorksCollectionAUDIO PODCAST:https://linktr.ee/soundworkscollectionINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/soundworkscollection/TIKTOK:https://www.tiktok.com/@soundworkscollectionVIDEOS AND INDUSTRY NEWS:https://www.SoundWorksCollection.com
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection conversation, we explore the music of storytelling with Emmy-nominated Composer Duncan Thum, as he reveals the creative process behind his moving score for Netflix's Chef’s Table: Legends. Duncan discusses crafting the musical themes for the episodes featuring world-renowned chefs José Andrés and Thomas Keller—two culinary visionaries with distinct philosophies, yet equally compelling emotional journeys.
From Andrés’ humanitarian energy and bold spirit to Keller’s refined precision and pursuit of perfection, discover how Duncan translated their stories into music that captures not only their cuisine, but their character.
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE:http://bit.ly/SubscribeSoundWorksCollectionAUDIO PODCAST:https://linktr.ee/soundworkscollectionINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/soundworkscollection/TIKTOK:https://www.tiktok.com/@soundworkscollectionVIDEOS AND INDUSTRY NEWS:https://www.SoundWorksCollection.com
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection conversation, we chat with Antonio Sánchez, the Grammy-winning composer and visionary drummer best known for his iconic score for Birdman. In this behind-the-scenes glimpse into The Studio, Sánchez shares his creative process for scoring the Apple TV+ series. Blending his deep jazz roots with masterful improvisation, Antonio constructs a rhythmic and emotive score that pulses in sync with the show's comedic storytelling.Antonio Sánchezwww.antoniosanchez.netSUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE:http://bit.ly/SubscribeSoundWorksCollectionAUDIO PODCAST:https://linktr.ee/soundworkscollectionINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/soundworkscollection/TIKTOK:https://www.tiktok.com/@soundworkscollectionVIDEOS AND INDUSTRY NEWS:https://www.SoundWorksCollection.com
In this exclusive video feature, we explore Wicked's emotional song, "Defying Gravity," featuring performances by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. We examine the various sonic and musical themes crafted by the sound and music team and highlight several pivotal moments in the song. Featuring Picture Editor Myron Kerstein, Composer John Powell, Re-Recording Mixer Andy Nelson, Re-Recording Mixer, Sound Designer and Supervising Sound Editor John Marquis, Supervising Sound Editor and Sound Designer Nancy Nugent Title, Production Sound Mixer Simon Hayes and Supervising Music Editor Jack Dolman. SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: http://bit.ly/SubscribeSoundWorksCollection AUDIO PODCAST: https://linktr.ee/soundworkscollection INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/soundworkscollection/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@soundworkscollection VIDEOS AND INDUSTRY NEWS: https://www.SoundWorksCollection.com
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection video we explore the captivating sound design and music of Pixar's Inside Out 2, an emotional rollercoaster that explores the inner workings of a young mind. We explore one of the most gripping scenes in the film, the hockey anxiety attack sequence, where sound and music merge to create a tension-filled experience. In this pivotal moment, the overwhelming chaos of Anxiety leads to a full-blown panic attack during a high-stakes game. Featuring Writer & Director Kelsey Mann, Composer Andrea Datzman, Re-Recording Mixer & Sound Designer Ren Klyce and Re-Recording Mixer Stephen Urata.
Discover the auditory brilliance behind the sound of Emilia Pérez with an inside look at the track, 'Bienvenida' sung by Selena Gomez. Featuring Sound Supervisor & Re-Recording Mixer Cyril Holtz, Supervising Sound Editor Aymeric Devoldère, Supervising Voice Editor Hortense Bailly and ADR Supervisor Carolina Santana.
The sound of WICKED transports you into the magical world of Oz with its soaring melodies and powerful orchestration. From the vibrant, bustling streets of the Emerald City to the mysterious and untamed lands beyond, the music pulses with emotion and energy.
In this exclusive conversation, we dive deeper into several key scenes, unpacking the sound team's meticulous craft behind the scenes. From the striking opening sequence to the breathtaking finale, we explore how different audio elements were carefully designed to heighten the emotional impact.
Featuring Supervising Sound Sound and Sound Designer / Re-recording Mixer John Marquis, Supervising Sound Editor and Sound Designer Nancy Nugent-Title, Re-recording Mixer Andy Nelson and Supervising Music Editor Jack Dolman.
Recorded on November 8th on the Hitchock mixing stage at Universal Studios.
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection conversation, we're talking with writer and director Jason Reitman about his new film, Saturday Night. This film takes place at 11:30 p.m. on October 11th, 1975, as a ferocious troupe of young comedians and writers changed television forever. Find out what happened behind the scenes. In the 90 minutes leading up to the first broadcast of Saturday Night Live. We're joined by writer and director Jason Reitman, Music Composer Jon Batiste and Music Editor Chris Newlin.
In this SoundWorks Collection exclusive, we take a deep dive into the sonic world of two of Marvel's most iconic characters: Deadpool and Wolverine. Join us as we chat live from the Savannah film festival featuring Composer Rob Simonsen and Re-recording mixer & Supervising Sound Editor Craig Henighan.
Discover how Simonsen’s evocative score brings emotional depth and pulse-pounding energy to the chaos of these fan-favorite antiheroes. Meanwhile, Henighan reveals the secrets behind crafting the visceral soundscapes of brutal fights, sharp wit, and gritty adventures.
Whether you're a Marvel fanatic, a film score aficionado, or simply curious about how sound shapes storytelling, this episode delivers a fascinating exploration into the art of cinematic sound and music.
In this episode of the Soundworks Collection podcast we chat with the sound team behind Director Todd Phillip's Joker: Folie à Deux.
For Phillips, sound isn't just an afterthought; it's a vital part of his storytelling. And in this film, the collaboration between Phillips and his sound team creates an auditory experience that blurs the line between reality and madness.
In this conversation we feature Co–Supervising Sound Editors and Sound Designers Erik Aadahl and Ethan Van der Ryn, Re-Recording Mixers Tom Ozanich and Dean Zupancic, Production Sound mixer Steven Morrow and Executive Music Producer, Supervising Music Editor, and Executive Producer Jason Ruder.
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection documentary, we dive deep into the mesmerizing world of Dune: Part Two and discover the creative brilliance behind its groundbreaking sound design. Join Writer/Director/Producer Denis Villeneuve, Re-recording Mixers Ron Bartlett and Doug Hemphill, and Supervising Sound Editor & Sound Designer Richard King, as they reveal the process of crafting the film’s extraordinary sonic landscape. SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: http://bit.ly/SubscribeSoundWorksCollection AUDIO PODCAST: https://linktr.ee/soundworkscollection INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/soundworkscollection/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@soundworkscollection VIDEOS AND INDUSTRY NEWS: https://www.SoundWorksCollection.com
On this episode of the SoundWorks Collection podcast, we’re diving into Netflix’s gripping thriller Woman of the Hour, directed by the multitalented Anna Kendrick in her remarkable directorial debut.
Joining us today are Director Anna Kendrick, Re-recording Mixer Tony Solis, and Supervising Sound Editor Paul Stanley. We’ll explore how these creative minds collaborated to heighten the tension and intensity of the film through sound, and break down a few key scenes that offer fascinating insights into the filmmaking process.
In this exclusive SoundWorks Collection podcast episode, we feature an in-depth conversation with the sound crew behind the critically acclaimed TV series "The Bear". Featuring Re-recording mixer and Supervising Sound Editor Steve Giammaria, Dialogue Editor Evan Benjamin, and Production Sound Mixer Scott Smith discuss the creative and technical challenges of bringing the show's dynamic kitchen and restaurant environments to life.
The crew reflects on the show's early success and surprising cultural impact, as well as the challenges of capturing the authentic sounds of the chaotic kitchen scenes using multiple cameras, booms, and lavalier mics. They share insights into their innovative audio editing and mixing techniques, such as using auto-align, managing dynamics, and preserving production tracks to maintain the emotional impact of the dialogue. We also discusses the importance of balancing noise reduction with preserving the life and energy in the audio, as well as overcoming challenges like background noise and improvisation.
This episode provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the exceptional sound work that has contributed to the success of "The Bear" and the creative process behind it, offering valuable insights for anyone interested in the art of sound design and post-production for television.
Today is a hard day, I think for, many of you who know my story, a big reason why I started the SoundWorks Collection was because of the many people throughout my life, early on in my career that had an incredible impact, influencing me and inspiring me to pursue sound and filmmaking.
Ann was one of the first sound artists I met and worked with while I started my sound engineering degree around 2001. We spoke often on the phone and I would visit Ann over the years at her studio and home to catch up and chat. She is a pioneer in the audio world and her art and contributions will be remembered for a long time.
We remember Ann Kroeber by revisiting our 2017 conversation about her Cinematic Winds library released on Pro Sound Effects.
In this episode of the Soundworks Collection podcast, we discuss Director Alex Gibney's new film, In Restless Dreams: The Music of Paul Simon.
This wonderful documentary takes the viewer inside the studio while legendary songwriter, Paul Simon is making his new album Seven Psalms while looking back on his six-decade career with countless musical peaks from Sounds of Silence to Graceland.
We are joined today by Director Alex Gibney, Supervising Sound Editor & Re-recording Mixer Tony Volante, Supervising Sound Editor & Music Editor Dan Timmons and Sound Designer Bill Chesley.
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Join us as we dive into the captivating sci-fi soundtrack of 'ATLAS,' featuring Composer Andrew Lockington and Director Brad Peyton.
We discuss their long term collaboration, their trip to Japan to record sounds of bullet trains and monk vocalizations and we break down several cues that defined the musical tone of the film.
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: http://bit.ly/SubscribeSoundWorksColl... AUDIO PODCAST SUBSCRIBE: https://linktr.ee/soundworkscollection MORE VIDEOS AND NEWS: https://www.SoundWorksCollection.com