Ben Burtt created some of the most famous movie sounds ever, including R2D2’s mechanical chatter and the whir of the lightsaber. He’s won four Oscars for his work in iconic films like “E.T.” and the “Indiana Jones” series.
Burtt reveals to Kurt Andersen the earthly sources of his otherworldly noises. The sound of the AT-AT Walkers in “The Empire Strikes Back,” for example, came from the squeaky dumpster behind his house. And M-O, the cleaning robot from “WALL-E”? That’s the noise of Burtt’s electric razor.
(Originally aired June 27, 2008)
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!