10. Red Tails
This is
not your stereotypical war film. The composer, Terrence Blanchard adds several
unique twists to this score. One
twist is a somewhat upbeat cue titled Takeoff. Normally, in a war film, “upbeat
cues” are not what people look for, however, Blanchard pulls it off. You have
got to hand it to him for a little originality!
Rating: ****
Rating: ****
I was very skeptical at first when I heard that Thomas Newman
would be scoring a film for the latest James Bond Film. Much to my shock,
however, Newman takes the listener on a full-fledged, action ride. From middle eastern cues, to the classic
James Bond action music, Newman creates a roller-coaster ride of music. Newman
found the perfect balance between the Old James Bond, suave, jazzy music, and
the new “modern” James Bond. Plus, the song performed by Adele is a whole lot
of fun. That is why Skyfall is my 9th favorite score.
Rating: ****
Rating: ****
Alexandre Desplat has woven a fun, fantastical, journey. Rise
of The Guardians is brassy, bold, and humorous at times. He catches the
innocence displayed in the movie and contrasts that to the forces of evil that
would like all childhood innocence removed. The song, Still Dream, performed by
Renee Fleming, captures the entire feel
of the score brilliantly, and while listening, I felt myself reminiscing the
older animated films that had the same feel to it (Once Upon A Forest, The Land
Before Time, The Brave Little Toaster, etc).
Rating: ****1/2
Rating: ****1/2
8. Life of Pi
This
idyllic and atmospheric score is a most enjoyable, peaceful to listen to. The
composer, Mychael Danna, is no stranger to composing beautiful ethnic scores.
This one is no exception. The main theme is just delightful, and the use of
soft vocals just adds to the experience. If you are looking for a relaxing
score check out my 7th favorite score of the year, The Life of Pi.
Rating: ****1/2
Rating: ****1/2
Composer, James Horner has taken command of the “new” Spiderman
movie wonderfully. It’s big, it’s dramatic, and it’s action-filled. I never was
much of a fan for Danny Elfman’s first two scores for the original Spiderman
movies. Then John Debney came along and scored the third Spiderman movie,
creating a new theme which I thought could not be surpassed. James Horner did.
The main theme is soaring, giving the listener a feeling of swinging from
rooftop to rooftop. (Or in the movie’s case from crane to crane!) I am looking
forward to see what Horner does in The Amazing Spiderman 2.
Rating: ****1/2
5. John Carter
Rating: ****1/2
5. John Carter
Michael Giacchino, the composer crafted an epic score. The
action is brassy and the drama is magnificent. The main theme is reminiscent of
past fantasy films and ultimately, very powerful. Giacchino kept me enthralled
to the very last end credits suite where it all comes together in a crashing
climax.
Rating: *****
Rating: *****
4. Journey 2; The Mysterious Islands
Composer, Andrew Lockton created a massive action score. The
themes are fast paced and the whole score flies by like an amusement park ride.
The score is bold, brassy, and even epic at times. Kudos to Lockington, for he has
come a long way from his prior score, Journey To the Center of the Earth!
Rating: *****
Rating: *****
If there ever was an hidden gem, this has to be it. The score
written by new composer, Rick Holets, is somewhat of a hybrid soundtrack.
Holets utilizes the cello, piano, and other “classical” instruments, and weaves
in some more modern sounds. The main anthem is patrotic sounding and even
epic at times making this science fiction score my third favorite of the year.
Check it out!
Rating: *****
Rating: *****
2. Lincoln
John Williams you have done it, yet, again! This score is
patriotic and reminiscent of Willam’s score for Saving Private Ryan, but even
better. The cue, Call To Muster/Battle Cry of Freedom is a patriotic
military/anthem-esq song and sticks out like a sore thumb, somewhat. However, it is also really enjoyable, and I
even found myself singing along! Several other cues are pure drama and it’s
obvious that William’s put a lot of emotion into this score. I listened to this
one two times in a row, straight.
Rating: *****
Rating: *****
I have chosen this score as my all-time favorite score of the year
because of the massive scope it covers. This score is one of the most epic and
emotional scores I have ever heard. It’s tragic, fast-paced at times, and
downright heartbreaking. But, I didn’t get depressed listening to it, either, I
found myself inspired. James Horner does recycle several themes, from other
films, which I found to be a little annoying, but once I got passed that, I
realized I had found a true gem. That is why For Greater Glory is the most
magnificent scores of the year. Bravo, James Horner, bravo!
Rating: *****
Rating: *****
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We have the Red Tails complete soundtrack (thanks to my Josh), but otherwise I don't remember/haven't heard the rest of the songs. I will soon, though!
Thanks for linking to you-tube. That was a very nice bonus.