Looney Tunes

        The way in which Looney Tunes and its sister series Merrie Melodies have animated sound has effectively become a benchmark for all subsequent animations. The distinctive explosions and gun shots, represented by sharp, spiked shapes and bold primary reds and yellows, automotive sound effects to denote speed, fading whistles and  tip toeing xylophones have all become generic conventions of slapstick cartoons. This is due in part to their universal success as visual representations of sound, but also as tools for humour, particularly in the sketches where there is little dialogue and a greater reliance on visual gags. For example, see in the clip below how Wile E Coyote's body contorts and folds, becoming the deflating accordion that can be heard on the sound track. 

 

 

        This clip also illustrates another trait, not just of cartoons, but also of comic books. As the mouse trap snaps shut on the Coyote off screen, the word 'SNAP' is propelled onto the screen in synchronisation with the sound effect, in a similar way that some comics place words in explosive shapes to emphasise the force of a blow or impact. 

        The font of words in these instances is also carefully considered in order to make the most impact; the 'SNAPs' etc. in Looney Tunes wobble and vibrate along with the audio, mirroring the Coyote's is no doubt shaking nerves or building rage, while the 'ZAP' is clean, bold and crisp, connoting a loud and sharp noise.

 

        These strong methods of responding to sound, which have become ingrained in the public's awareness and interpretation (try looking at a spiked red and yellow shape without imagining an explosive sound) also allow the cartoons to appear more brutal and violent than they actually are; Coyote is caught in the mouse trap off screen, and the explosions often cover the character, before subsiding to show them in the aftermath, but the effectiveness of these techniques leaves the viewer feeling that they have seen more. Also, by incorporating non diegetic musical cues into the characters' body language (as with the accordion) the action is exaggerated and heightened, and has a greater impact.