The art of sound manipulation in horror movies is a delicate balance between tension and terror. A well-timed silence can be just as effective as a blood-curdling scream. This is precisely what writer-director Ian Tuason achieves in his A24 debut, Undertone. The film follows a lonely podcast host whose late-night sessions become increasingly eerie as she records her latest episode. With its innovative storytelling and concise runtime, Undertone has the potential to be the next big thing in the horror genre.

Tuason's background in virtual reality has given him a unique understanding of soundscapes and how to craft an immersive experience. He notes that his experience in VR allowed him to focus on sound direction in his script, often prioritizing sound over camera direction. This approach has paid off, creating a film that is as unsettling as it is captivating.

The influence of legendary filmmakers like Kubrick is evident in Tuason's work. His use of silence in Undertone is reminiscent of Kubrick's iconic 2001: A Space Odyssey, where the absence of sound creates an otherworldly atmosphere. By employing similar techniques, Tuason has created a film that is both a tribute to horror classics and a bold new entry in the genre.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

The use of sound as a horror tool is a fascinating trend that resonates deeply with Nigerian audiences who are familiar with the eerie sounds of Afrobeats and the unsettling silences of Nollywood thrillers. Ian Tuason's innovative approach to storytelling in Undertone is a testament to the power of sound in creating a chilling experience. As Afrobeats continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Nigerian musicians and filmmakers incorporate sound manipulation into their work, creating a new wave of horror and suspense that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.