Collapse

A groan of failing frame, then a long roar of masonry, for the big disaster moment, a war scene or a level that falls apart.

Rafters snapping in sequence, then tiles and beams crashing in, for a storm-hit house, a barn fire or a trap sprung overhead.

Brick chunks trickling down a pile with a slow creak, the aftermath bed while the dust still hangs in the air.

Girders shrieking and snapping, then a heavy splash and rumble below, for action set pieces, disaster films and chase levels.

One sharp crack, then plaster and lath pouring down, for a leak that finally breaks through or a hiding place exposed.

Deep groans, creaks and small cracks before anything falls, the warning that keeps an audience holding its breath.