Jurassic Park: The T-Rex scene. Super classic, not just for the fantastic sound design of the approaching dinosaur’s giant footsteps, but for it’s more famouse visualization of said sound: the ripples in the cup of water.
Totoro: bus stop scene. Similar to Jurassic Park, this scene utlilizes bodies of water-rain drops and puddles-working with the sound to enhance the tension and humor of the moment. Totoro’s “discovery” and subsequent infatuation with raindrops is easily the most memorable scene in the movie. Just like the cup of water is easily the most memorable prop in Jurassic Park. Miyazaki’s choice of music is really important as well. It acts like a part of the diagetic soundscape with it’s intended pauses and fades that put the rain/totoro noises on center stage.
Children of Men: the birth scene. In a movie with virtually no melodic soundtrack and an unbelievably heavy/emotionally draining plot, the first cries of Kee’s baby are palpably relieving to the audience. Another incredibly tense moment. I’m beginning to sense a pattern…
Big: playing chopsticks at FAO Shwarz. Practically needs to explanation. The use of sound and the catchy jingle make this a standout for everyone. (Plus Tom Hanks is just so cute.)
2001 A Space Odyssey: The Blue Danube/Shuttle scene. Again this needs no comment. Kubrik transformed cinema with 2001, and sound played a gigantic role. “Chapter 6: A space shuttle (from PanAm airlines, no less) docks with a space station to the musical strains of the Blue Danube. You’ve got the overwhelming size and spectacle of the rotating station (shown above), the dance between flying objects, the Earth below, and the sky. Then there’s all the fine detail: a pen floating in zero gravity, a cockpit control panel, and even people in space station windows. And the last shot is a doozy.” (via)
