What role does music play in film storytelling?

Music plays a crucial role in film storytelling by enhancing emotional depth and guiding audience reactions. It serves as an emotional compass, amplifying tension, marking pivotal moments, and establishing the film's tone. As stated, “a carefully chosen score can amplify tension, herald the arrival of a character, or underscore a moment of triumph or tragedy”^[2]. This ability to manipulate emotions makes music an indispensable narrative tool.

Furthermore, soundtracks contribute to character development through thematic motifs, which link musical ideas to specific characters or concepts, reinforcing viewers' emotional connections. These motifs can mirror the characters' journeys and enhance the overall narrative by providing continuity and depth^[4]. Thus, music is not merely background but an integral element of storytelling in cinema.