Meaning: This quote by Jonny Greenwood, a renowned musician and composer, touches upon the intrinsic relationship between film soundtracks and the visual medium they accompany. Greenwood's observation highlights the significance of soundtracks in enhancing the cinematic experience, as well as their ability to become an integral part of the overall storytelling process in film.

The notion of soundtracks being inseparable from the films they accompany resonates with the idea that music has the power to evoke emotions, create atmospheres, and reinforce narratives in ways that visuals alone cannot. When a soundtrack becomes so intertwined with a film that it is impossible to separate the two, it signifies a successful collaboration between the musical and visual elements of the art form. The music becomes an indispensable part of the viewer's experience, shaping the emotional and psychological impact of the film.

Greenwood's reference to Hitchcock's films underscores the idea that certain soundtracks are not just an accompaniment to the visuals, but rather an integral component of the storytelling process. In Hitchcock's work, the music often plays a crucial role in building tension, creating suspense, and amplifying the psychological dimensions of the narrative. The symbiotic relationship between the visual storytelling and the musical score in Hitchcock's films exemplifies how a soundtrack can inform and elevate the cinematic experience, leading to a larger, more immersive whole.

Furthermore, Greenwood's mention of the soundtrack and film "becoming this larger thing" alludes to the idea that, when executed effectively, the combination of visuals and music can transcend their individual components and create a unified, immersive experience for the audience. A well-crafted soundtrack can elevate the impact of a film, adding depth, emotion, and resonance to the storytelling, while also leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.

In the realm of filmmaking, the role of a composer in creating a soundtrack is multifaceted. It involves understanding the nuances of the story, characters, and themes, and translating them into musical motifs, rhythms, and melodies that enhance and complement the visual narrative. The collaboration between filmmakers and composers is essential in achieving a cohesive and impactful marriage of visuals and music, one that resonates with the audience on a visceral level.

The quote also speaks to the enduring influence of film soundtracks on popular culture and collective memory. Iconic film scores have the ability to transcend the confines of the films they accompany, becoming cultural touchstones and evoking nostalgia and emotion in audiences, even outside of the cinematic context. These soundtracks take on a life of their own, becoming beloved and recognizable pieces of music that are inseparable from the cultural legacy of the films they represent.

In conclusion, Jonny Greenwood's quote encapsulates the profound impact of film soundtracks on the cinematic experience. It underscores the vital role that music plays in shaping the emotional and narrative dimensions of film, and the symbiotic relationship between visuals and music in creating a larger, more immersive storytelling experience. The quote serves as a reminder of the enduring power of film music and its ability to enrich, elevate, and become intertwined with the cinematic art form.