This study investigates the interplay of narrative content and non-diegetic music in creating film suspense. Three groups watched a suspenseful short film: one with audio-video, one video-only, and one audio-only. Continuous response measurement (CRM) and psychophysiological measures (heart rate, pulse volume amplitude, skin conductance level) were used. Results showed a dissociation between self-reported suspense and physiological measures. Tense music alone induced suspense, even without narrative clues. The audio-only version elicited highest arousal, while the video-only version showed the lowest. Heart rate deceleration responded to salient narrative clues, suggesting heightened attention.

Gary Bente, Kevin Kryston, Nolan T. Jahn, Ralf Schmälzle