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Speech technology and cinema: can they learn from each other?
1Department of Theatre, Film and Television, University of York , York , UK.
Logopedics, Phoniatrics, Vocology
|July 23, 2013
Summary
This study explores cinematic voice conventions using a short film featuring a robot-like voice. It investigates how speech technology can learn from film and transform character voice representation.
Area of Science:
- Film Sound Design
- Speech Technology
- Media Studies
Background:
- The human voice is central to film soundtracks, conveying character and language.
- Cinematic voices are typically differentiated by lip synchronization and character appropriateness.
- Unconventional character voices, like those from machines, challenge traditional film sound conventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss sound design experiments for a short film with a robot-like voice.
- To explore the potential for speech technology design to learn from cinematic representations.
- To examine how uncommon film protagonists can creatively alter cinematic voice conventions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of sound-related work and experimentation conducted for the short film 'Voice by Choice'.
- Exploration of the relationship between cinematic voice representation and speech technology design.
- Case study approach focusing on a character with a machine-generated voice.
Main Results:
- The film 'Voice by Choice' involved specific sound design choices to represent a non-human voice.
- Cinematic portrayals of artificial voices offer insights for speech technology development.
- The use of unconventional voices can push the boundaries of established cinematic sound practices.
Conclusions:
- Film's representation of artificial voices can inform and inspire speech technology innovation.
- Exploring non-traditional cinematic voices can lead to creative transformations in character portrayal.
- The study highlights the symbiotic relationship between media representation and technological advancement.
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