Hit the link below to subscribe to The Score Catcher calendar and receive updates for all featured film scores on freeview.
Saturday, E4, 6:25pm
Stardust
Stardust is a 2007 fantasy adventure film directed by Matthew Vaughn, based on Neil Gaiman's novel of the same name. The story follows Tristan Thorn (Charlie Cox), a young man from the English village of Wall, who ventures into the magical kingdom of Stormhold to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved, Victoria (Sienna Miller). However, he discovers that the star is actually a woman named Yvaine (Claire Danes). Together, they face a series of challenges, including an evil witch (Michelle Pfeiffer) seeking Yvaine’s heart to regain her youth, and the ambitious heirs of a dying king (Peter O'Toole) who are competing for the throne. The film combines romance, adventure, and humor, creating a whimsical and enchanting cinematic experience.
The soundtrack of Stardust is composed by Ilan Eshkeri, whose orchestral score perfectly complements the film's fantastical elements. Eshkeri's music ranges from sweeping and grandiose themes that underscore the magical and adventurous aspects, to tender and intimate melodies that highlight the evolving relationship between Tristan and Yvaine. The soundtrack enhances the film’s enchanting atmosphere, with standout tracks like "Shooting Star" and "Septimus" providing memorable musical moments that linger with the audience long after the credits roll.
Sunday, ITV1, 2:25pm
Dr. No
Dr. No is a 1962 spy film directed by Terence Young, marking the first cinematic appearance of Ian Fleming's iconic British Secret Service agent, James Bond, portrayed by Sean Connery. The plot follows Bond as he is sent to Jamaica to investigate the disappearance of a fellow British agent. His mission leads him to the mysterious Dr. No (Joseph Wiseman), a megalomaniacal scientist planning to disrupt an American space launch with a powerful radio beam. Set against the exotic backdrop of the Caribbean, Bond faces various dangers, including deadly assassins and the alluring Honey Ryder (Ursula Andress). With its blend of espionage, action, and intrigue, Dr. No laid the foundation for the long-running and beloved James Bond franchise.
The soundtrack of Dr. No is notable for introducing the iconic James Bond Theme, composed by Monty Norman and arranged by John Barry. This theme, with its distinctive surf rock guitar riff, has become synonymous with the Bond character and is one of the most recognizable pieces of film music. The soundtrack also features Caribbean-inspired tracks that reflect the film's setting, adding to the exotic and adventurous ambiance. Barry’s orchestration enhances the tension and excitement, setting a high standard for the music in subsequent Bond films.
Monday, Film4, 9:00pm
The Italian Job (2003)
The Italian Job (2003) is a high-octane heist film directed by F. Gary Gray, serving as a remake of the 1969 classic. The film stars Mark Wahlberg as Charlie Croker, a professional thief who leads a team of experts, including computer genius Lyle (Seth Green), wheelman Handsome Rob (Jason Statham), explosives expert Left Ear (Mos Def), and safecracker Stella Bridger (Charlize Theron). After a successful gold heist in Venice is marred by betrayal from their associate Steve (Edward Norton), the team reassembles in Los Angeles to exact revenge and reclaim their stolen loot. The film is renowned for its thrilling action sequences, particularly the Mini Cooper chase through the streets and subways of L.A., combining modern technology with classic heist tropes.
The soundtrack of The Italian Job (2003) is composed by John Powell, whose energetic and dynamic score heightens the film's tension and excitement. Powell's music blends orchestral and electronic elements to create a soundscape that matches the film's fast-paced and high-stakes nature. The soundtrack also features contemporary tracks like "Money" by Velvet Revolver and "The Wreckoning" by Boomkat, adding to the modern and edgy feel of the movie. Powell's compositions, particularly during the heist and chase scenes, provide a pulse-pounding accompaniment that enhances the overall thrill and enjoyment of the film.
Tuesday, Film4, 9:00pm
Le Mans '66
Le Mans '66 (titled Ford v Ferrari in North America) is a 2019 biographical sports drama directed by James Mangold. The film stars Matt Damon as Carroll Shelby, a former race car driver turned automotive designer, and Christian Bale as Ken Miles, a fearless British race car driver. The story revolves around their collaboration with Ford Motor Company to build a revolutionary race car capable of defeating Ferrari at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans race. The film captures the intense rivalry between Ford and Ferrari, the camaraderie and conflicts between Shelby and Miles, and the exhilarating world of high-speed racing. With stunning cinematography and gripping race sequences, Le Mans '66 delivers a powerful narrative of determination, innovation, and friendship.
The soundtrack of Le Mans '66 is composed by Marco Beltrami and Buck Sanders, whose score perfectly captures the film's thrilling and emotional beats. Beltrami and Sanders use a mix of orchestral and rock elements to reflect the 1960s setting and the high-octane nature of the racing world. Tracks like "Ford v Ferrari" and "Le Mans 66" underscore the tension and excitement of the race scenes, while more subdued pieces highlight the personal struggles and triumphs of the characters. The soundtrack also includes period-specific songs, enhancing the film's nostalgic atmosphere and immersing the audience in the era of motorsport glory.
Wednesday, BBC1, 10:40pm
Spiderman: Homecoming
Spider-Man: Homecoming is a 2017 superhero film directed by Jon Watts, marking the first solo outing of Tom Holland as the iconic web-slinger within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Following his debut in "Captain America: Civil War," Peter Parker navigates the challenges of high school while aspiring to join the Avengers. Under the mentorship of Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), Peter faces his biggest challenge yet when he encounters the Vulture (Michael Keaton), a villain who threatens New York City with dangerous alien weaponry. Balancing his life as a teenager and a superhero, Peter learns the true meaning of heroism and responsibility in this refreshing and youthful take on the beloved character.
The soundtrack of Spider-Man: Homecoming is composed by Michael Giacchino, whose dynamic and energetic score captures the essence of Spider-Man's youthful exuberance and the film's adventurous spirit. Giacchino's music blends orchestral themes with contemporary elements, creating memorable tracks like "The World is Changing" and "Spider-Man: Homecoming Suite" that enhance the excitement and emotional depth of Peter's journey. The film also features a mix of classic rock songs, including the Ramones' "Blitzkrieg Bop," which complements the film's playful and nostalgic tone. Giacchino's score, combined with these well-chosen tracks, adds a vibrant and heroic atmosphere to Spider-Man's cinematic adventures.
Thursday, Quest, 10:00pm
Full Metal Jacket
Full Metal Jacket is a 1987 war film directed by Stanley Kubrick, based on the novel "The Short-Timers" by Gustav Hasford. The film is divided into two distinct parts: the first follows a group of Marine recruits, including the wise-cracking Private Joker (Matthew Modine) and the troubled Private Pyle (Vincent D'Onofrio), through the brutal basic training under the tyrannical Gunnery Sergeant Hartman (R. Lee Ermey). The second part shifts to the Vietnam War, where Joker, now a combat correspondent, experiences the horrors of battle during the Tet Offensive. Kubrick's stark portrayal of the dehumanizing effects of war, combined with sharp dialogue and powerful performances, makes Full Metal Jacket a compelling and haunting exploration of military life and combat.
The soundtrack of Full Metal Jacket is a striking blend of period-specific rock and roll tracks and an eerie original score composed by Abigail Mead (a pseudonym for Kubrick's daughter, Vivian Kubrick). The film features iconic songs such as "Paint It Black" by The Rolling Stones and "Surfin' Bird" by The Trashmen, which juxtapose the grim realities of war with the era's popular culture. Mead's haunting and minimalist score amplifies the film's unsettling atmosphere, particularly in scenes depicting the psychological and physical toll of training and combat. This combination of music elements enhances the film's emotional impact, making the soundtrack an integral part of the viewing experience.
Friday, BBC3, 7:25pm
Roald Dahl's The Witches
Roald Dahl's The Witches is a 1990 dark fantasy comedy film directed by Nicolas Roeg, adapted from Roald Dahl's classic children's novel. The story follows a young boy named Luke (Jasen Fisher) and his grandmother Helga (Mai Zetterling), who encounter a convention of witches while staying at a seaside hotel. These witches, led by the Grand High Witch (Anjelica Huston), plot to turn all children into mice. With courage and ingenuity, Luke and his grandmother set out to thwart the witches' sinister plan. Known for its blend of whimsy and horror, the film features memorable performances, particularly Huston's menacing portrayal of the Grand High Witch, and showcases impressive special effects for its time.
The soundtrack of Roald Dahl's The Witches is composed by Stanley Myers, whose music beautifully complements the film's magical and eerie atmosphere. Myers’ score uses a mix of orchestral and whimsical motifs to reflect the story’s blend of light-hearted adventure and dark fantasy. The music enhances key moments, from the suspenseful unveiling of the witches to the heartwarming scenes between Luke and his grandmother. Myers' compositions help to bring the enchanting yet sinister world of Dahl's novel to life, adding an additional layer of charm and tension to the film.