Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Non/Diegetic Sound

Diegetic Sound

Diegetic sound is sound made by a source which is visible on the screen. For example, the voices of characters, or sounds coming from objects on screen, such as a car engine, or a gunshot. An example of diegetic sound in the Star Wars trailer is the blasters. This sound is a sharp, energetic sound which attracts the viewers attention and immerses them in the science fiction setting.

Non-Diegetic Sound

Non-diegetic sound is sound made from a source which is not part of what is being filmed, and has been added on afterwards. An example of non-diegetic sound in the Star Wars trailer is the Star Wars theme song. The effect of this is that it tells the audience exactly what the trailer is for and accurately portrays the atmosphere of the trailer.