Nominated for the best sound editing, Gary Rydstrom and Michael Silvers are well-known sound editors and designers in the film industry, and they both worked on the animated film “Monsters, Inc.” which was produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released in 2001. Gary Rydstrom is a highly acclaimed sound designer and director who has won multiple Academy Awards for his work in sound editing and sound mixing. He has worked on various blockbuster films, including several from the Star Wars franchise, as well as other Pixar films like “Toy Story,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Ratatouille.” Rydstrom’s expertise in sound has made a significant impact on the world of cinema. Michael Silvers is a talented sound editor and designer who has also worked on a wide range of films, including various Pixar productions. He collaborated with Gary Rydstrom on “Monsters, Inc.” and contributed to the film’s immersive and creative sound design. Their work on “Monsters, Inc.” helped bring the animated world of monsters and the sounds of Monstropolis to life, enhancing the overall cinematic experience for audiences. “Monsters, Inc.” was one of the early films to take full advantage of surround sound technology.

The “23-19!” scene in “Monsters, Inc.” is one of the memorable moments in the film. It occurs when one of the human objects, a child’s sock, makes its way into the monster world of Monstropolis. The CDA (Child Detection Agency) is immediately alerted, and a full-scale emergency is declared when a “23-19” is reported. In this context, a “23-19” refers to a situation where a foreign object or contaminant from the human world is discovered in the monster world, and it’s a grave matter that requires immediate attention. Sound plays a crucial role in creating tension and humor in this scene. In the “23-19!” scene, you’ll notice multiple layers of sound. There’s the primary layer of the characters’ voices and movements, but underneath, you can also hear the distant echoes of the bustling Monstropolis city, which adds to the atmosphere.

Alarm Sounds: The scene starts with an urgent alarm blaring, which immediately grabs the audience’s attention and sets the tone for the emergency. The loud, repetitive alarm creates a sense of urgency and chaos.

CDA Dispatch Radio: Throughout the scene, you can hear the dispatchers at the CDA headquarters communicating with the field agents via radio. The distorted and authoritative voices over the radio add to the sense of panic and the urgency of the situation.

Footsteps and Monster Reactions: As the sock is discovered and the CDA agents arrive, the sound of monster footsteps, gasps, and murmurs is amplified. The exaggerated sounds of monster reactions, such as growls and screams, add humor to the scene as the monsters panic over the seemingly dangerous sock.

Sound Effects of the Contaminated Sock: The sock itself is treated as a dangerous object. When it’s handled, there are exaggerated sounds to emphasize its significance, even though it’s just a harmless sock from the human world.

Chase Sequence: The scene includes a comical chase sequence as the CDA agents pursue the sock. The sound of their footsteps, sliding, and comedic mishaps as they try to capture the sock adds a playful element to the scene.

Music: The musical score by Randy Newman complements the sound effects, enhancing the suspense and humor. It underscores the chaos and the absurdity of the situation.