Sound design is more than just creating sounds; it’s about storytelling, emotion, and immersion. In an insightful guest lecture, seasoned sound designer Kris Fenske shared his expertise on crafting iconic soundscapes for science fiction and beyond. With years of experience on films like The Hunger Games and numerous horror projects, Kris offered a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous art of sound design.
The Magic Behind the Mockingjay
Kris opened by recounting the creative process behind the Mockingjay calls in The Hunger Games. Despite the fantastical nature of the sound, Kris rooted it in reality, blending recordings of real birds with a whistled melody. Using software to fine-tune the notes, he created a sound that was not only believable but also iconic. His approach exemplifies his philosophy: simplicity and authenticity often produce the most memorable sounds.
Sci-Fi Soundscapes: Balancing Futurism and Realism
One of the most insightful parts of the lecture was Kris’s exploration of sound design for science fiction films. He discussed how the aesthetic of a film—whether sleek and sterile like 2001: A Space Odyssey or gritty and industrial like Alien—informs the sound choices. In The Hunger Games, for example, hovercrafts were given a hauntingly organic tone by incorporating recordings of a street cleaner echoing through urban canyons.
Kris highlighted the importance of creating sounds that feel plausible yet futuristic, often using unexpected methods. His description of experimenting with everyday objects—like a fishbowl and a computer fan to simulate an astronaut’s helmet—showed just how inventive sound design can be.
Horror: A Playground for Sound Designers
For Kris, horror films were a particular favourite because of their reliance on sound to create atmosphere. He recounted how subtle design choices, like amplifying the creak of a door or crafting unsettling ambient tones, could transform a scene into something truly terrifying. He also shared his more unorthodox methods, including using butchered meat to replicate the sound of tearing flesh—a detail that left the audience both fascinated and slightly squeamish.
Advice for Aspiring Designers
Kris offered plenty of practical advice for students and professionals eager to break into the field. He stressed the importance of developing a personal sound library, constantly recording unique sounds, and always being curious about how things work. “Don’t underestimate the power of a handheld recorder and a bit of curiosity,” he said, encouraging attendees to explore their environments for inspiration.
Another key takeaway was his emphasis on collaboration. He explained how sound design is inherently a team effort, requiring clear communication with directors, editors, and other creatives to ensure the sounds enhance the story’s emotional impact.
A Career Rooted in Passion
Kris wrapped up his session with a reminder of the joys and challenges of the industry. He talked about the satisfaction of creating something new and the camaraderie among sound designers. For Kris, sound design wasn’t just a job—it was a craft, a passion, and an opportunity to tell stories in ways that transcend words and visuals.
Kris Fenske was an accomplished sound designer with nearly two decades of experience in the film industry, renowned for his innovative approach to crafting immersive soundscapes. His work spanned a variety of genres, from the futuristic tones of The Hunger Games and Riddick to the visceral horror of The Call, Texas Chainsaw 3D, and Apollo 18. He also contributed to films like It, It: Chapter 2, and The Starving Games, using a mix of real-world recordings, creative experimentation, and advanced techniques to bring stories to life. Based in Hollywood, Kris collaborated with top production houses and filmmakers, leaving a lasting legacy in sound design.