This week I wanted to challenge myself with this awesome assignment for DS106 radio which turns a movie into a good radio show. In essence, my goal was to transform a movie’s soundtrack (music, dialogue, sound effects) into a condensed abstract version of the film. Ever since I read the details of this assignment I have been eager to tackle Martin Scorsese’s film Raging Bull.

The Process:

At first, I tried to learn how to rip audio from a video. After watching several tutorial and playing around with iMovie for far too long, I admitted defeat.

Next, I found high quality recordings of the film and used my computer’s internal recorder to capture the audio. I did struggle with trying to reduce the horrendous feedback noise. I succeed in mitigating some of the feedback but not all of it- whatever. After a few tedious hours I had all of the audio I needed.

My goal was to capture the artist feel of the film, and the contradictions of the main character, Jake LaMotte’s identity . For those of you who have not seen this film 1) shame on you 2) it will change your perspective on Robert De Niro’s skillz as an actor (damn you Meet the Parents).

Jake LaMotte is a famous boxer that is emotionally self-destructive. He is violent with a hot temper, which makes him successful in the ring but destroys his life outside of the ring.

A key element I wanted to focus on what the role of Cavalleria Rusticana’s song Intermezzo in the film. This song is played throughout the film and is implemented during high emotional moments.

Overall, if you have seen the film then the narrative will remind you of different aspects of film, however, if you have not then you might be a little confused, all the more reason to finally go and see this film!

So without further to do- Raging Bull in four minutes: