By Patience Kapinda

Lilongwe, May 19, Mana: The Malawi film industry has experienced a significant shift in recent years, with sound design emerging as a crucial element in storytelling.

Sound engineer, Miracle Ndonani, who worked on the popular film "Welcome to Maula Prison," told Mana in an interview that sound design is no longer just a background element, but a powerful tool that enhances emotional depth, realism, and audience engagement.

"When working on a film project, my sound design process typically begins with reading the script and understanding the director's vision," he said. "I identify key sound elements that will enhance the storytelling, such as dialogue, sound effects, and music."

Ndonani emphasized the importance of sound design in shaping the emotional impact of a film. "By carefully crafting the sound elements, I can create a sonic landscape that evokes emotions, builds tension, or creates a sense of unease."

He added that in 'Welcome to Maula Prison,' he used sound effects and music to create a sense of foreboding and tension, which heightened the audience's emotional response to a key scene.

However, Ndonani noted that limited access to high-quality equipment and software is a significant challenge for sound designers in Malawi.

President of the Film Association of Malawi (FAMA), Dorothy Shonga, has since acknowledged the contribution of sound design to the industry's growth.

"Sound design is crucial to Malawi's film industry growth, enhancing storytelling, emotional resonance, and overall production value," she said in an interview. "Quality sound design can elevate Malawian films, making them more engaging and competitive globally."

According to Shonga, FAMA is committed to supporting the development of sound design in Malawi's film industry, with initiatives that include workshops and training programs for sound design and post-production; collaborations with industry experts and international partners; and providing resources and mentorship for emerging sound designers.

A film enthusiast, Madalitso Tukula, has also commended the role sound design plays in how the public regard Malawian films, adding that sound design helps bring scenes to life and makes them feel more engaging.

“When the sound is clear and well done, it pulls you into the story more deeply," said Tukula in an interview.