The Space Between Image and Music in the Film Without Words

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between music and image in the experimental film Without Words directed by Miloš Radivojević (1972). The interaction of music, through Kornelije Kovač’s improvisation and musical theme, silence, through the absence of noise, speech and sound design, and image, as an experimental, non-narrative form, provides fertile ground for analysis: that of each individual element’s effect on the viewer, as well as of their joint, interdependent creation, which conveys a strong impression. This analysis focuses on the process of constructing the music score through music improvisation, and the effective use of the musical theme in this film, as well as its multi conventional role within a non-conventional film system.