Amplifying the sound of silence

Taking audiences on a lifelike journey is what makes Dolby Atmos impactful and innovative, said wildlife filmmakers at the Wildscreen Festival in Bristol earlier this month.

“Dolby Atmos enables hyper immersive experiences in our storytelling, it is better than real life,” said BBC Earth Films Producer Stephen McDonogh, whose credits include Walking with Dinosaurs, One Life and Enchanted Kingdom.

With growing global competition for filmmakers, it’s critical to use all the toys in the box, McDonogh said.

He added that producers must be ambitious with audio because it adds depth to content, giving it the best chance to stand up against theatrical films.

McDonogh said: “Atmos has raised the bar and come at a very good time for the industry alongside 4K which adds more to the quality of the image. Together they are powerful storytelling devices.”

Challenging the creatives
Cinematographer Mark Deeble and Producer Victoria Stone, the Co-Directors of wildlife feature film The Elephant Queen, have worked together in Africa for over 30 years on telling wildlife stories. Both agreed that amplifying the natural sounds of the wilderness is incredibly powerful in storytelling.

Deeble said: “You have to future proof the…