Meaning: This quote by Mike Figgis, a renowned director and composer, offers insight into his approach to creating music for films. Figgis is known for his innovative and experimental style, and his approach to incorporating music into his films reflects this creativity. In this quote, Figgis emphasizes the importance of having musicians truly understand the context and emotional nuances of the film in order to create a musical score that complements and enhances the on-screen action and dialogue.

Figgis' approach to music in film is deeply rooted in the idea of collaboration and integration. By making the musicians listen to what is happening in the film, he is effectively inviting them to become active participants in the storytelling process. Rather than simply providing a soundtrack that runs parallel to the visual elements, Figgis encourages the musicians to treat the dialogue and the overall narrative of the film as if it were a singer. This approach suggests a level of emotional engagement and responsiveness to the film's content that goes beyond traditional scoring techniques.

By treating the dialogue as if it were a singer, Figgis is expressing the idea that the music should not merely serve as background noise, but should instead become an integral part of the storytelling. In much the same way that a singer's voice can convey emotion, meaning, and atmosphere, Figgis expects the musicians to infuse their compositions with the same level of expressiveness and sensitivity. This approach speaks to Figgis' desire to create a seamless and immersive experience for the audience, where the music becomes an organic and essential component of the film's narrative structure.

Figgis' emphasis on having the musicians listen to what's happening in the film also highlights the importance of understanding the context and mood of the scenes they are scoring. By immersing themselves in the visual and auditory elements of the film, the musicians gain a deeper understanding of the characters, emotions, and thematic elements at play. This understanding allows them to craft a musical score that not only complements the on-screen action but also elevates it, adding layers of depth and emotion that enhance the overall viewing experience.

It's important to note that Figgis' approach to music in film aligns with the broader trend in contemporary cinema, where the role of music has evolved from being a mere accompaniment to a more integrated and essential element of storytelling. Directors and composers increasingly recognize the power of music to shape and enhance the audience's emotional and psychological connection to the film. As such, the collaborative approach advocated by Figgis reflects a growing awareness of the need for a cohesive and symbiotic relationship between music and film.

In conclusion, Mike Figgis' quote provides valuable insight into his approach to incorporating music into his films. By emphasizing the importance of having musicians listen to and understand the context of the film, treating dialogue as if it were a singer, and creating a seamless integration of music and storytelling, Figgis demonstrates a commitment to crafting a rich and immersive viewing experience. His approach highlights the evolving role of music in contemporary cinema and underscores the significance of collaboration and emotional resonance in the art of film scoring.