In a new IndieWire feature, Company 3 Senior Re-Recording Mixer Christian Cooke and supervising sound editor Nathan Robitaille break down how they shaped the creature’s haunting vocal identity through a deeply layered sonic design. Guided by director Guillermo del Toro’s vision, the team approached the creature’s voice as an evolving character—one that transforms from “something” into “someone” across the film.

Working alongside Re-Recording mixer Brad Zoern, Cooke helped bring together Jacob Elordi’s performance with a surprising range of animal textures and carefully controlled low frequency elements. As Cooke explains, “In the beginning, we don’t know who this is or where it came from. That gave us more leeway to add sound effects layers to his exertions. But as we realize who he is, we dial those sounds down because we want his own persona to come through.”

The interview offers a closer look at the collaboration behind the film’s sound design and the creative process that brought the character to life.

You can read the full IndieWire feature here.