Of harmony and dissonance

No wonder the theory of semiotics in audiovisual entertainment is so valued. It's simply understanding the logistics of that media. The use of images and sounds and words are the vessels used to convey a message to the viewer. The thing is, each form of expression can carry a message of its own, and the way those messages can intertwine could and should be explored to the fullest.

Most time, to create an atmosphere, images and sounds are going to be used in harmony to build up the intended response. When showing an office or hospital scene, the use of sound effects that are already unconciously connected to a certain ambient can enhance the immersive response.

However, the contrast of the messages can create an interesting effect too. It's usually known as irony, when there's a violent scene and we are present with a piece of classical music. It's the case of the opening scenes of V for Vendetta, when we listen to Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture when V triggers explosions in I don't remember the building London.

In the end, those are just two of the possible combinations that are more easily recognizable. But even then the possibilities that can be explored from this simple formula are enough to create very interesting scenarios.