What is 'diegetic sound'?

Diegetic sound refers to sound that originates from within the story world of a film, meaning that it is sound that characters in the film can hear. This includes elements such as dialogue between characters, sounds made by objects or actions within the film, and background noises that exist in the film's environment.

For example, if a scene takes place in a café, the clinking of dishes, conversations, and the sounds of coffee machines operating would all be considered diegetic sound because they are part of the world the characters inhabit and are perceived by them in the narrative. This sound helps to create a realistic atmosphere and enriches the viewer's experience by immersing them in the film's environment.

In contrast, sound that is added in post-production or music and sound that exists outside of the film's world would not qualify as diegetic. Such sounds might serve different purposes, like enhancing the emotional impact of a scene or providing commentary to the audience, but they are not part of the characters' audible experience. Thus, the defining characteristic of diegetic sound is its source being confirmed within the film's universe, making option C the correct definition.