Movies: feelings in motion and sound

Movie music is a complex magic. Though many are critical of film compositions for their seeming simplicity, its hard to deny the incredible, visceral power of a recognizable tune. Play the first ten seconds of the Imperial March anywhere you go, and see how many Star Wars fans turn towards you with a smile. In the words of Hans Zimmer (The Lion King, Pirates of the Caribbean, Gladiator), the most memorable music “opens the door that you can walk through.” Movie soundtracks are designed for this purpose—to create melodic landscapes that carry viewers through their cinematic journey, wherever it may take them. They paint portraits of anticipation: a breathtaking fanfare prepares you for a story of heartache and triumph, while a low, foreboding melody warns that danger lies ahead. Simple or not, there is something to be said for music that presents the listener with the opportunity to follow along, to hear and understand. Film scores wear their heart on their sleeve, beautiful in their forthrightness, and reach out—across screens and generations—to anyone willing to listen.