For the superheros in film, there is one man who writes the soundtrack to accompany their story. That man, is Danny Elfman.
Elfman, who made a name for himself with the inception of Batman (directed by Tim Burton), has become well known for composing a theme for each superhero. Contrary to other composers out there, all of the characters in the film have their own theme. Not just our hero.
Example: Batman Returns. Theme for Batman, theme for Catwoman, and yet another theme for Penguin. If there was a theme for poor Alfred, I wouldn't be surprised.
So, the question is: Can Elfman establish a fresh new theme for yet another superhero?
The answer, of course, is 'yes'. But it appears that Elfman's learned a thing or two since his stint on Batman. His themes for each character: a slow moving violin, backed up by piano and solo flute for Mary Jane. Tender strings for moments with Uncle Ben and Aunt May. Hard brass and dueling basslines for Goblin.
In addition to his multi-themed score, Elfman has branched out a bit from the Batman era and implemented more percussion and more synthesizers. Being from a classical school, I don't think that synthesizers have any place in a score, and I assume that Elfman would agree. However, he uses them so subtly, that rather than drawing attention from the orchestra, they add to it.
The percussive heartbeat of the main theme rouses the senses...a sense of excitement, pride. The recipe for a good hero soundtrack.
Mr Elfman does it again! Revamping the Spider-man score for Spider-man 2...but that's another review for another time.
5 o'o 5