The unsung heroes of film music: background scores that steal the show
When we think about our favorite movies, the gripping storylines, brilliant acting, and stunning visuals often come to mind. But lurking in the background, almost omnipresent yet sometimes overlooked, is the film score— that magical thread of music that ties the whole narrative together. In this article, we explore those unsung heroes of film music: the background scores that often steal the show, but don't necessarily steal the limelight. From the delicate strings to the haunting pianos and the resounding orchestras, let's delve into how these compositions shape our cinematic experiences.
Many of us have walked out of a theater humming the central theme of a film. Iconic scores like John Williams' epic "Star Wars" fanfare or Hans Zimmer's pulsating score for "Inception" dominate our memories. However, the more subtle, intricate background scores are equally integral to the movie's emotional landscape. Composers like Thomas Newman, known for his nuanced touch in films like "American Beauty," craft soundscapes that subtly manipulate our emotions, making us laugh, cry, or shriek in horror.
Take, for instance, Jóhann Jóhannsson’s work in "Arrival." His handling of the background score not only complemented the film's ethereal quality but also elevated its storytelling. The minimalistic approach—using just the right amount of sound to build tension—turned the narrative on its head. Similarly, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross's collaboration on "The Social Network" proved how an electronic score could lend an unforeseen depth to a movie about social media and its underlying chaos.
Perhaps one of the underappreciated aspects of background scores is how they contribute to character development. Imagine Joker's descent into madness in 2019’s "Joker" without Hildur Guðnadóttir's eerie and melancholic compositions. The background score isn't just music; it is an extension of the character's psyche, a window into their soul. Or consider the melancholic, almost sorrowful background themes in "Blade Runner 2049," which reveal the deep isolation and existential dread of the characters.
Not to be forgotten are scores in genres that typically don't receive the same critical acclaim. Brian Tyler’s consistently brilliant work in the "Fast & Furious" series gives the films a cinematic gravitas that they might otherwise lack. His scores push the pedal to the metal, delivering heart-pounding excitement that feels tangible.
Even in horror films, the background score is what lingers long after the screen fades to black. In "Hereditary," Colin Stetson's unsettling and disorienting background score keeps us on edge. It’s almost as if the music is another character, a silent observer that amplifies the terror unfolding on screen.
Some background scores develop a life of their own outside the context of the films. Clint Mansell's haunting score for "Requiem for a Dream" has transcended its movie origins to become a go-to piece of music in various media formats, from trailers to commercials. Its dirge-like tones encapsulate the despair and hopelessness that infuse the film, making it impossible to separate the music from the emotion it evokes.
We've also seen instances where the background score becomes the focal point of a film, as seen in "Baby Driver." Almost the entire film was choreographed to its eclectic soundtrack, which ranged from rock to pop to jazz. Each scene’s authenticity was amplified by its musical accompaniment, making the background score an essential pillar of the storytelling framework.
The evolving landscape of film music sees composers experimenting with unconventional instruments and technology. Michael Levi's work on "Under the Skin" exemplifies this rebellion against traditional scoring. Her innovative use of micro-sound textures invokes a feeling of alienation that perfectly complements the storyline.
We must also give credit to those who are revisiting and revitalizing classical compositions. Nicholas Britell’s work on "If Beale Street Could Talk" is a modern homage to the orchestral scores of the past, blending soulful strings with contemporary elements. His music whispers the essence of the characters’ inner turmoil and passion, creating a symphonic tapestry that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
In conclusion, the background score of a film is not just fleeting sound; it is a carefully crafted emotional experience that deepens our connection to the story. These compositions might not always grab the headlines or dominate the box office, but their impact is undeniable and profound. As moviegoers, perhaps it's time we pay a little more attention to these unsung heroes, the musical weavers who enrich the stories we love so much.
Many of us have walked out of a theater humming the central theme of a film. Iconic scores like John Williams' epic "Star Wars" fanfare or Hans Zimmer's pulsating score for "Inception" dominate our memories. However, the more subtle, intricate background scores are equally integral to the movie's emotional landscape. Composers like Thomas Newman, known for his nuanced touch in films like "American Beauty," craft soundscapes that subtly manipulate our emotions, making us laugh, cry, or shriek in horror.
Take, for instance, Jóhann Jóhannsson’s work in "Arrival." His handling of the background score not only complemented the film's ethereal quality but also elevated its storytelling. The minimalistic approach—using just the right amount of sound to build tension—turned the narrative on its head. Similarly, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross's collaboration on "The Social Network" proved how an electronic score could lend an unforeseen depth to a movie about social media and its underlying chaos.
Perhaps one of the underappreciated aspects of background scores is how they contribute to character development. Imagine Joker's descent into madness in 2019’s "Joker" without Hildur Guðnadóttir's eerie and melancholic compositions. The background score isn't just music; it is an extension of the character's psyche, a window into their soul. Or consider the melancholic, almost sorrowful background themes in "Blade Runner 2049," which reveal the deep isolation and existential dread of the characters.
Not to be forgotten are scores in genres that typically don't receive the same critical acclaim. Brian Tyler’s consistently brilliant work in the "Fast & Furious" series gives the films a cinematic gravitas that they might otherwise lack. His scores push the pedal to the metal, delivering heart-pounding excitement that feels tangible.
Even in horror films, the background score is what lingers long after the screen fades to black. In "Hereditary," Colin Stetson's unsettling and disorienting background score keeps us on edge. It’s almost as if the music is another character, a silent observer that amplifies the terror unfolding on screen.
Some background scores develop a life of their own outside the context of the films. Clint Mansell's haunting score for "Requiem for a Dream" has transcended its movie origins to become a go-to piece of music in various media formats, from trailers to commercials. Its dirge-like tones encapsulate the despair and hopelessness that infuse the film, making it impossible to separate the music from the emotion it evokes.
We've also seen instances where the background score becomes the focal point of a film, as seen in "Baby Driver." Almost the entire film was choreographed to its eclectic soundtrack, which ranged from rock to pop to jazz. Each scene’s authenticity was amplified by its musical accompaniment, making the background score an essential pillar of the storytelling framework.
The evolving landscape of film music sees composers experimenting with unconventional instruments and technology. Michael Levi's work on "Under the Skin" exemplifies this rebellion against traditional scoring. Her innovative use of micro-sound textures invokes a feeling of alienation that perfectly complements the storyline.
We must also give credit to those who are revisiting and revitalizing classical compositions. Nicholas Britell’s work on "If Beale Street Could Talk" is a modern homage to the orchestral scores of the past, blending soulful strings with contemporary elements. His music whispers the essence of the characters’ inner turmoil and passion, creating a symphonic tapestry that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
In conclusion, the background score of a film is not just fleeting sound; it is a carefully crafted emotional experience that deepens our connection to the story. These compositions might not always grab the headlines or dominate the box office, but their impact is undeniable and profound. As moviegoers, perhaps it's time we pay a little more attention to these unsung heroes, the musical weavers who enrich the stories we love so much.