Sound of Metal — Stephanie Williams

Sound of Metal

Motion Graphics
Sound + Typography
Title Sequence Design

This motion design project was treated as a movie trailer–style title sequence was created in Adobe After Effects as part of a course on narrative sequence planning, storyboarding, and animation. The assignment was to design a film title sequence that built anticipation and established the film’s tone through typography and motion.

I selected Sound of Metal for its exploration of sound, silence, and identity. The goal of this project was to sync typography and graphic elements with the film’s original soundtrack, using motion and pacing to echo the rhythm of the music. Sharp, vibrating type treatments mirror the chaos of noise-metal performances, while abrupt pauses and muted sequences reflect the disorienting experience of hearing loss. Layered textures and shifting visual rhythms capture Ruben’s turbulent emotional journey, gradually moving toward steadier compositions as he finds acceptance.

Through careful integration of typography, sound, and motion, the sequence creates a visual rhythm that parallels the film’s sound design, immersing viewers in its emotional landscape before the story begins.

Visual Inspiration

Exploration and Formulation

Final Result

WARNING: This video's audio is set at a high volume. Please lower the volume for a comfortable hearing.

All credit to the production team on Sound of Metal. Audio by Olivia Cooke and Riz Ahmed, “Purify,” Sound of Metal, released November 20, 2020.

2023
UIC DES251: DIGITAL MEDIA DESIGN III

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ABOUT ME

As a recent UIC graduate, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for analog art, working with traditional media such as painting, drawing, collage, linocuts, and creating objects with clay, and translating these pieces into the digital realm to create a dynamic bridge between physical and digital art. My work often explores personal themes that shape who I am—my Black and Mexican heritage, my environment, my thoughts, family and friends, and my evolving identity as an artist and designer.

Lately, I’ve been drawn to brand identity and logo design, exploring how visual systems can communicate ideas and values effectively. As I continue learning and discovering more about myself, I know I’ll also develop clarity about the kind of designer I want to be through these projects. Outside of my work, I enjoy exploring local spots with friends, shooting film, learning Spanish, and being a homebody with my cat.