The Art of Silence

Here's an interesting video essay about the way that Martin Scorsese uses silence. It's without doubt the most powerful tool the sound designer has at his disposal and can be more effective at underlining emotion than a well written score if it's used correctly.

The Superman comparison shows how the use of silence in blockbusters has been eradicated over the years. One of the main reasons I find these types of films (your Transformers et al) very difficult to watch is due to the constant headache inducing barrage of FX and music and the lack of respite they allow your ears.

Martin Scorsese// The Art of Silence