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Labyrinth
Saturday, 5 Star, 11:00 am
"Labyrinth" is a fantasy adventure film directed by Jim Henson and executive produced by George Lucas. The story follows a teenage girl named Sarah, played by Jennifer Connelly, who embarks on a journey to rescue her baby brother from the Goblin King, portrayed by David Bowie. As she navigates a mystical maze filled with magical creatures and challenging puzzles, Sarah learns valuable lessons about courage, responsibility, and self-discovery. The film is celebrated for its imaginative world-building, stunning puppetry, and iconic musical performances.
The soundtrack of "Labyrinth" is a standout feature, with music composed by Trevor Jones and songs performed by David Bowie. Bowie’s contributions, including iconic tracks like "Magic Dance" and "As the World Falls Down," blend pop, rock, and fantasy elements, perfectly complementing the whimsical and dark tones of the film. Trevor Jones' score enhances the magical atmosphere with orchestral arrangements that emphasize the mysterious and adventurous aspects of Sarah's journey.
Did You Know? The owl in the opening scene of "Labyrinth" was one of the first uses of CGI animal animation in a feature film.
Other Films Directed by Jim Henson: The Dark Crystal, The Great Muppet Caper, The Muppet Movie
Other Scores by Trevor Jones: The Last of the Mohicans, Dark City, Merlin
Notable Films Released in 1986: Top Gun, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Aliens
Monster House
Sunday, Film4, 11:00 am
"Monster House" is a 2006 animated horror-comedy film directed by Gil Kenan. The story revolves around three children who discover that a seemingly haunted house in their neighborhood is actually a living, breathing entity that poses a danger to anyone who comes near. As Halloween approaches, they take it upon themselves to uncover the house's dark secrets and put an end to its terror. The film features a unique animation style and blends humor with a touch of horror, making it an engaging watch for both kids and adults.
The soundtrack for "Monster House" features a score by composer Douglas Pipes, who expertly captures the film's eerie yet playful tone. The music combines suspenseful and spooky elements with light-hearted, whimsical motifs that reflect the children's adventure and the animated nature of the story. Pipes' score enhances the film's mood, building tension during key moments and providing a sense of wonder and excitement.
Did You Know? "Monster House" was one of the first films to use performance capture technology, which allows actors' movements and expressions to be translated into digital characters.
Other Films Directed by Gil Kenan: City of Ember, Poltergeist (2015), A Boy Called Christmas
Other Scores by Douglas Pipes: Trick 'r Treat, Krampus, The Babysitter
Notable Films Released in 2006: The Departed, Pan's Labyrinth, Casino Royale
The Piano
Monday, BBC2, 11:05 pm
"The Piano" is a 1993 drama film written and directed by Jane Campion. Set in the mid-19th century, the story centers on Ada McGrath, a mute woman played by Holly Hunter, who travels with her young daughter to New Zealand for an arranged marriage. She brings along her beloved piano, which becomes a source of tension and emotional expression. The film explores themes of communication, desire, and power dynamics, with stunning performances by Hunter, Harvey Keitel, and Anna Paquin. It won several Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Hunter and Best Supporting Actress for Paquin.
The film's soundtrack, composed by Michael Nyman, is a critical component of its narrative, often conveying the emotions and thoughts of the mute protagonist, Ada. The score is predominantly piano-driven, with Nyman's compositions beautifully reflecting the character's inner life and the film's melancholic, romantic atmosphere. The haunting and expressive piano pieces are central to the film's emotional depth, making the music an integral part of the storytelling.
Did You Know? Holly Hunter, who played Ada, performed all the piano pieces herself in the film, showcasing her real-life piano skills.
Other Films Directed by Jane Campion: The Portrait of a Lady, In the Cut, Bright Star
Other Scores by Michael Nyman: Gattaca, The End of the Affair, The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover
Notable Films Released in 1993: Jurassic Park, Schindler's List, The Fugitive
Arctic
Tuesday, Great Movies, 11:25 pm
"Arctic" is a survival drama film directed by Joe Penna, starring Mads Mikkelsen as a man stranded in the Arctic after a plane crash. The film follows his struggle to survive the harsh and unforgiving environment while attempting to signal for rescue. As hope wanes, he faces a difficult decision when he encounters a woman in need of help. The movie is notable for its minimal dialogue, intense performance by Mikkelsen, and stark depiction of isolation and resilience.
The soundtrack for "Arctic," composed by Joseph Trapanese, is minimalist yet powerful, mirroring the film's stark and desolate setting. The score uses a restrained palette of sounds, focusing on subtle, atmospheric music that underscores the protagonist's isolation and struggle. Trapanese's use of sparse instrumentation and ambient textures enhances the film's tension and emotional gravity, perfectly complementing the narrative's focus on survival and human endurance.
Did You Know? The film was shot in Iceland under extreme weather conditions, with temperatures sometimes dropping below -30°C (-22°F), making Mads Mikkelsen's portrayal of the physical hardships all the more authentic.
Other Films Directed by Joe Penna: Stowaway, Turning Point, Beyond
Other Scores by Joseph Trapanese: Oblivion, Straight Outta Compton, The Greatest Showman
Notable Films Released in 2018: Black Panther, A Star is Born, Bohemian Rhapsody
We Bought a Zoo
Wednesday, Film4, 11:00 am
"We Bought a Zoo" is a heartwarming family drama directed by Cameron Crowe. Based on a true story, the film stars Matt Damon as Benjamin Mee, a widowed father who decides to buy a dilapidated zoo to give his family a fresh start. As they work to restore the zoo and care for the animals, the family navigates personal challenges and finds new hope. Scarlett Johansson co-stars as the head zookeeper who helps Benjamin with the daunting task. The film is a feel-good story about healing, love, and the adventure of starting over.
The soundtrack of "We Bought a Zoo" features music composed by Jónsi, the lead singer of the Icelandic band Sigur Rós. Jónsi's ethereal and uplifting compositions infuse the film with a sense of wonder and optimism, perfectly aligning with its themes of new beginnings and emotional healing. The soundtrack includes both instrumental tracks and songs with Jónsi's distinctive vocals, creating an atmospheric and emotionally resonant backdrop for the story.
Did You Know? Cameron Crowe, known for his keen ear for music, personally chose Jónsi to create the film's score after being inspired by his solo album, "Go."
Other Films Directed by Cameron Crowe: Jerry Maguire, Almost Famous, Vanilla Sky
Notable Films Released in 2011: The Artist, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, The Help
Mud
Thursday, BBC2, 11:35 pm
"Mud" is a 2012 coming-of-age drama directed by Jeff Nichols. The story follows two young boys, Ellis and Neckbone, who discover a fugitive named Mud, played by Matthew McConaughey, hiding on an island in the Mississippi River. Mud is on the run for committing a crime of passion, and the boys decide to help him reunite with his true love, Juniper, portrayed by Reese Witherspoon. The film explores themes of love, trust, and moral ambiguity, with a strong narrative and captivating performances.
The soundtrack of "Mud" is a blend of Americana and folk music, featuring a score by David Wingo and Ben Nichols. The music captures the essence of the Mississippi River setting and the Southern Gothic atmosphere of the story. The acoustic-driven score, along with a selection of songs, complements the film's themes of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of life in a small town. The soundtrack's earthy tones and soulful melodies enhance the emotional depth and authenticity of the narrative.
Did You Know? The director, Jeff Nichols, specifically wrote the role of Mud with Matthew McConaughey in mind, envisioning him as the perfect fit for the character.
Other Films Directed by Jeff Nichols: Take Shelter, Midnight Special, Loving
Other Scores by David Wingo: Take Shelter, Loving, Our Brand Is Crisis
Notable Films Released in 2012: The Avengers, The Dark Knight Rises, Argo
Green Book
Friday, BBC1, 12:10 am
"Green Book" is a 2018 biographical drama directed by Peter Farrelly, inspired by the true story of a friendship between classical pianist Dr. Don Shirley, played by Mahershala Ali, and his driver Tony "Lip" Vallelonga, portrayed by Viggo Mortensen. Set in the 1960s, the film follows their journey through the racially segregated American South, highlighting the social injustices of the era. The title refers to "The Negro Motorist Green Book," a guide for African-American travelers. The film won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and is praised for its performances and message of tolerance and understanding.
The soundtrack of "Green Book" features a rich collection of jazz, classical, and rhythm and blues music, reflecting Dr. Don Shirley's eclectic musical background. The score, composed by Kris Bowers, includes original piano pieces that showcase Shirley's virtuosity and blend of classical and jazz styles. The film also features popular songs from the 1960s, which set the period's tone and enhance the cultural and emotional landscape of the story. The music serves as a bridge between the characters and underscores the transformative journey they undertake together.
Did You Know? Mahershala Ali learned to play piano for the role, though the more complex pieces were performed by the composer Kris Bowers, who also coached Ali on the mannerisms of a professional pianist.
Other Films Directed by Peter Farrelly: Dumb and Dumber, There's Something About Mary, Shallow Hal
Other Scores by Kris Bowers: Dear White People, When They See Us, Space Jam: A New Legacy
Notable Films Released in 2018: Black Panther, A Star is Born, Bohemian Rhapsody