Best movie scores... (part one)

Happy Blogmas Day Four! Only 21 days to go!

One of my favourite elements of movies is the music that accompanies it. Music tells stories, helps to move audiences and becomes so recognisable that hearing single notes or melodies can transport you back to that moment in the cinema when you first heard it. Music is such an integral part of storytelling.

Here are 5 of my favourite movie scores of all time.

1. Harry Potter.

The nostalgia that I feel when listening to this is what makes it one of my favourites. But, what makes this such an impressive score is that it has the ability to blend into the background or to be used to further strengthen the narrative. John Williams is one of the best film scorers of all time, and the one who wrote the distinguished, 'Hedwigs's Theme'. Listen to this masterpiece below.

2. Star Wars.

Few can touch the impact of John Williams’ symphonic soundtrack for the original Star Wars movies. The only word I could use to ever describe his work on Star Wars would be 'epic'. He creates worlds, but reaches galaxies and this is one of the only fantasy film scores that truly hits the mark. Without knowing the context of the movie, every single person would be able to identify that this movie was set in outer space.

3. My Neighbour Totoro.

Studio Ghibli movies have the power to move audiences in ways I never imagined animated movies would be able. My Neighbour Totoro has one of the most incredible scores, it is equal parts magical, heartbreaking and recognisable. Joe Hisaishi is such an incredible composer, and Totoro is just one example of his genius work. It is a masterpiece.

4. La La Land.

La La Land, but most importantly and arguably the best musical moment of the entire movie; Epilogue by Justin Hurwitz. The fact that this movie can create an epilogue filled with emotive and recognisable motifs after just 2 hours of viewing suggests just how incredibly well written the music is for this film. The epilogue truly takes us on a journey, using music, and music only, to define and place the characters within the narrative. It is so incredibly clever.

5. Avengers.

Not often seen on many countdown lists for best score, but for a modern movie, I would find it hard to find someone who isn't immediately transported back to the first Avengers movie after hearing this. It is anthemic, powerful, filled with motifs and melodies that remind you of your favourite superheroes. It is such a clever piece of film music, and it has me shouting AVENGERS... waiting for a cry of "Assemble". Silvestri is a genius, and this is only one piece of music out of many that makes me so proud to be a fan of the movies.

What are some of your favourite movie score moments? Let me know in the comments and I will feature them in part two!