Hit the link below to subscribe to The Score Catcher calendar and receive updates for all featured film scores on freeview.
Contact
Saturday, 5 Star, 11:45 am
"Contact" is a thought-provoking sci-fi drama directed by Robert Zemeckis, based on the novel by Carl Sagan. The film stars Jodie Foster as Dr. Ellie Arroway, a scientist who discovers a signal from an extraterrestrial source, leading her on a journey to uncover the mysteries of the universe and the meaning of human existence. The movie expertly blends scientific inquiry with emotional depth, offering a compelling exploration of faith, science, and the search for truth.
The film's score, composed by Alan Silvestri, is both haunting and uplifting, perfectly complementing the movie's themes of wonder and discovery. Silvestri's music enhances the emotional impact of the film, from the awe-inspiring moments of cosmic revelation to the intimate, human-centered scenes. The score's orchestral richness and melodic beauty help to create an immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience. (6.5m)
Did You Know? Carl Sagan and his wife, Ann Druyan, wrote the initial story for "Contact" as a film treatment in 1979, but when the project stalled, Sagan turned it into a novel, which was published in 1985.
Other films directed by Robert Zemeckis: "Forrest Gump" (1994), "Back to the Future" (1985), "Cast Away" (2000).
Other films scored by Alan Silvestri: "Forrest Gump" (1994), "The Avengers" (2012), "Back to the Future" (1985).
Other films released in 1997: "Titanic," "Men in Black," "The Lost World: Jurassic Park."
Blinded By The Light
Sunday, BBC1, 11:00 pm
"Blinded By The Light" is an inspiring coming-of-age drama directed by Gurinder Chadha, set in 1987 Britain. The film follows Javed, a British-Pakistani teenager, who finds solace and direction in the music of Bruce Springsteen amidst the racial and economic turmoil of Thatcher-era England. It's a heartwarming story about the power of music, family, and dreams, beautifully capturing the universal struggle of finding one's voice and place in the world.
The soundtrack of "Blinded By The Light" is a tribute to Bruce Springsteen's iconic music, featuring many of his greatest hits that resonate with the film's themes of hope and resilience. Songs like "Dancing in the Dark," "Born to Run," and "The Promised Land" are woven seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing the emotional and inspirational journey of the protagonist. The use of Springsteen's music not only drives the plot but also connects deeply with the audience, making the film a celebration of the transformative power of rock 'n' roll.
Did You Know? Bruce Springsteen gave the filmmakers his blessing to use his music in the film after being moved by the script, marking one of the few times his songs have been featured so prominently in a movie.
Other films directed by Gurinder Chadha: "Bend It Like Beckham" (2002), "Bride and Prejudice" (2004), "Viceroy's House" (2017).
Other films released in 2019: "Joker," "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," "Parasite."
Crazy Rich Asians
Monday, BBC1, 11:10 pm
"Crazy Rich Asians," directed by Jon M. Chu, is a glamorous and vibrant romantic comedy based on the best-selling novel by Kevin Kwan. The story follows Rachel Chu, an American-born Chinese economics professor, who travels to Singapore with her boyfriend, Nick Young, only to discover he comes from one of the wealthiest families in Asia. As she navigates the opulent and challenging world of Singapore’s elite, the film explores themes of love, tradition, and identity with humor and heart.
The film's soundtrack is a delightful blend of contemporary and classic songs that capture the cultural fusion at the heart of the story. Featuring tracks like "Yellow" by Katherine Ho, sung in Mandarin, and "Material Girl" by Sally Yeh, the music adds a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere to the film. The soundtrack also includes original compositions by Brian Tyler, whose score adds an elegant and cinematic quality, perfectly underscoring the film's emotional and comedic moments.
Did You Know? "Crazy Rich Asians" is the first major Hollywood studio film in 25 years to feature an all-Asian cast, following "The Joy Luck Club" in 1993.
Other films directed by Jon M. Chu: "Step Up 3D" (2010), "Now You See Me 2" (2016), "In the Heights" (2021).
Other films scored by Brian Tyler: "Iron Man 3" (2013), "Fast & Furious" (2009), "Thor: The Dark World" (2013).
Other films released in 2018: "Black Panther," "A Star is Born," "Bohemian Rhapsody."
Glass
Tuesday, Film4, 11:10 pm
"Glass," directed by M. Night Shyamalan, is a psychological thriller that serves as a sequel to both "Unbreakable" and "Split." The film brings together the characters David Dunn, Elijah Price (Mr. Glass), and Kevin Wendell Crumb (The Horde) in a tense and dramatic showdown. With its intricate plot and strong performances by Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson, and James McAvoy, "Glass" delves into the nature of heroism, villainy, and the blurred lines between the two.
The score for "Glass" was composed by West Dylan Thordson, who also scored "Split." Thordson's music creates a haunting and suspenseful atmosphere, blending themes from "Unbreakable" and "Split" to unify the trilogy. The score is characterized by its use of dissonant strings, eerie electronic elements, and powerful orchestral sections, which enhance the film's psychological intensity and dramatic tension. Thordson's work adds a crucial layer to the film's exploration of identity and power.
Did You Know? M. Night Shyamalan funded "Glass" himself with a budget of $20 million, allowing him full creative control over the project.
Other films directed by M. Night Shyamalan: "The Sixth Sense" (1999), "Signs" (2002), "The Village" (2004).
Other films scored by West Dylan Thordson: "Split" (2016), "Joy" (2015), "Foxcatcher" (2014).
Other films released in 2019: "Avengers: Endgame," "The Irishman," "Toy Story 4."
Bridge of Spies
Wednesday, BBC1, 11:20 pm
"Bridge of Spies" is a gripping historical drama directed by Steven Spielberg, starring Tom Hanks as James B. Donovan, an insurance lawyer who is thrust into the Cold War’s tense geopolitical landscape. Tasked with negotiating the exchange of captured American U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers and Soviet spy Rudolf Abel, Donovan navigates the dangerous waters of espionage with integrity and determination. The film is a masterful depiction of diplomacy, showcasing Spielberg's keen eye for historical detail and Hanks' compelling performance.
The film's score was composed by Thomas Newman, known for his evocative and atmospheric music. Newman's score for "Bridge of Spies" combines orchestral and electronic elements to create a tense and immersive soundscape. The music underscores the film's suspenseful moments and emotional depth, with recurring motifs that highlight the themes of trust and sacrifice. Newman's composition enhances the storytelling, making the historical drama even more compelling and engaging.
Did You Know? "Bridge of Spies" was the first Spielberg-directed film since 1985's "The Color Purple" not to be scored by John Williams, who was unavailable due to health issues.
Other films directed by Steven Spielberg: "Jaws" (1975), "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" (1982), "Schindler's List" (1993).
Other films scored by Thomas Newman: "The Shawshank Redemption" (1994), "American Beauty" (1999), "Finding Nemo" (2003).
Other films released in 2015: "Mad Max: Fury Road," "The Revenant," "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."
The River Wild
Thursday, Legend, 9:00 pm
"The River Wild," directed by Curtis Hanson, is an exhilarating adventure thriller featuring Meryl Streep and Kevin Bacon. Streep plays Gail, a former river guide who takes her family on a rafting trip in the remote wilderness. The vacation turns deadly when they encounter two violent fugitives, played by Bacon and John C. Reilly, who force Gail to navigate them down the treacherous rapids. The film is a high-stakes survival story, showcasing Streep’s versatility and the breathtaking beauty of the natural setting.
The score for "The River Wild" was composed by Jerry Goldsmith, a master of film music known for his dynamic and versatile compositions. Goldsmith's score for the film is both thrilling and suspenseful, with orchestral swells that mirror the turbulent rapids and the intense action. The music heightens the tension and drama, while also capturing the majestic beauty of the wilderness setting. Goldsmith's work is integral to the film's ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
Did You Know? Meryl Streep did many of her own stunts for the rafting scenes, demonstrating her commitment to authenticity and adding to the film's intense realism.
Other films directed by Curtis Hanson: "L.A. Confidential" (1997), "8 Mile" (2002), "Wonder Boys" (2000).
Other films scored by Jerry Goldsmith: "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" (1979), "Total Recall" (1990), "Planet of the Apes" (1968).
Other films released in 1994: "The Shawshank Redemption," "Pulp Fiction," "Forrest Gump."
Braveheart
Friday, BBC1, 10:40 pm
"Braveheart," directed by and starring Mel Gibson, is an epic historical drama that tells the story of William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who led a rebellion against English tyranny in the 13th century. Known for its sweeping battle scenes and stirring score, the film captures Wallace’s fierce determination and the struggle for Scottish independence. "Braveheart" won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and remains a powerful and iconic portrayal of courage and freedom.
The film's iconic score was composed by James Horner, whose work on "Braveheart" is considered one of his masterpieces. Horner's music is both haunting and heroic, featuring the use of traditional Scottish instruments such as bagpipes and flutes to evoke the film's historical setting. The score's main themes, including the poignant "Freedom" and the rousing "Sons of Scotland," are memorable and emotionally resonant, enhancing the epic nature of the film and the emotional journey of its characters. Horner's composition is a crucial element of the film's enduring legacy.
Did You Know? The battle scenes in "Braveheart" were so realistic that many extras were actually injured during filming, adding to the film's authenticity and raw intensity.
Other films directed by Mel Gibson: "The Passion of the Christ" (2004), "Apocalypto" (2006), "Hacksaw Ridge" (2016).
Other films scored by James Horner: "Titanic" (1997), "Avatar" (2009), "Apollo 13" (1995).
Other films released in 1995: "Se7en," "Apollo 13," "Toy Story."