Top Ten Film Composers

Ticket Stub is back to regular posting after a week of being ill! Before September is out, I have lots of exciting new posts to squeeze in, so let's dive in with a new Top Ten.

Ticket Stub's new Top Ten lists my favourite film composers of all time. Music is vitally important in films. It is the underlying track that immediately creates an atmosphere of tension, romance, comedy or drama.

I began on Twitter by asking you who is your fave composer of all time.
BBC Sound of Cinema's Neil Brand offered his suggestion:

Do you agree? Who is your most-loved composer? What is their best work? 

Let me know in the comments below or tweet @TicketStubBlog.

1. Alan Menken

Image: frozen.wikia.com

Menken has penned some of the best-loved scores to these Disney childhood classics: The Little Mermaid (1989), Aladdin (1992), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Enchanted (2007) and Tangled (2010).

He has collaborated with various lyricists including Stephen Schwartz for Pocahontas (1995), and Howard Ashman for Beauty and the Beast (1991). These are my two favourite Disney soundtracks - particularly the instrumental score for Pocahontas:

Another outstanding Menken soundtrack, with lyrics by Ashman, is the horror musical Little Shop of Horrors (1986). Check out Feed Me sung by the man eating plant Audrey II:


 
He has won 8 Oscars for his songs and scores. Find out more about the legendary composer below:

2. Hans Zimmer

Image: empireonline.com

Hans Zimmer brings an epicness to Hollywood movies with his mighty scores. Blockbusters such as Inception (2010), The Dark Knight (2008) and Gladiator (2000) are just some of the huge scale films Zimmer has worked on. His first project though, was on Rain Main (1988) which earned him his first Oscar nomination. 

His score for The Lion King (1994) won him his first Academy Award, along with a Golden Globe and 2 Grammys. Most recently, Zimmer composed the critically acclaimed film by Steve McQueen: 12 Years a Slave (2013). Zimmer also took over from colleague Klaus Badelt to compose the Pirates of the Caribbean sequels, carrying on the brilliant themes he helped introduce in Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003).

Here is one of the composer's most celebrated works: Time from Inception. 

3. Danny Elfman

Image: wow247.co.uk

Often collaborating with director Tim Burton, Danny Elfman has scored a huge variety of films throughout his career. Most adored though is his soundtrack to Edward Scissorhands (1994).

Elfman's delicate yet quirky and distinctive orchestration captures the imagination, drawing the audience into the world of each film. This is particularly true in Burton's musical films, such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005) and The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), where he also provided the singing voice for Jack.

 As well as these family favourites, Elfman has scored Good Will Hunting (1997), Milk (2008) and, most recently, American Hustle (2013).
Did you know? Elfman also composed the theme tune to The Simpsons.

 He is currently writing the music for Fifty Shades of Grey (2015).
A large variety of work indeed - from the quirky to the raunchy!

4. Howard Shore

Image: fanpop.com

The Lord of the Rings trilogy soundtracks are my favourite classical scores of all time. 

From the Hobbits in the Shire to the Elves at Rivendell and the evil Orcs in Mordor, the themes are magical, mesmerising and menacing -  capturing everything that Middle Earth represents.

Howard Shore has won three Academy Awards for his music. He has composed an array of films, including The Silence of the Lambs (1991), Seven (1995), Ed Wood (1994), The Aviator (2004) and Doubt (2008).

Shore is set to compose the score for Sinatra (2015/6) which is to be directed by Martin Scorsese. 

5. James Horner

Image: thehollywoodnews.com

The love theme from Titanic (1997) is certainly what James Horner is most recognised for. The entire soundtrack is particularly clever with balancing the love story between Jack and Rose whilst maintaining the increasing tension and impending danger for all the characters on the doomed ship. I adore the simple love theme played on the piano in the infamous naked drawing sequence. It is raw, romantic and honest, matching the portrayal of Jack and Rose's relationship. Plus, no one wants to hear that Celine Dion version - this is miles better:

Horner has composed for more big blockbusters including: Braveheart (1995), Apollo 13 (1995), Avatar (2009), with the most recent being The Amazing Spiderman (2012).

6. Bernard Herrmann

Image: cbsnews.com

Bernard Herrmann is most well known for his remarkable score in Alfred Hitchcock's 1960 film Psycho. Nothing had ever been heard like this before. Herrmann only used stringed instruments, mainly due to budgeting reasons. Hitchcock originally wanted the film to have a jazz score - can you imagine how different Psycho could have sounded?!

The infamous shower scene is a brilliant example in showing how the soundtrack mirrors the action on screen perfectly. As the murder takes place, the screeching staccato strings stab us in the ears with a piercing harsh sound, whilst we are forced to watch Marion being horrifically stabbed to death.

Herrmann collaborated with Hitchcock on various classics such as Vertigo (1958), North by Northwest (1959) and The Birds (1963). His work can also be heard in Citizen Kane (1941) and Taxi Driver (1976).

7. Thomas Newman

Image: bmi.com

Another top composer on the list. Thomas Newman has written many beautiful scores for a huge scope of successful films. He is best known for creating the themes and scores to Finding Nemo (2003) and American Beauty (1999):

Newman's title theme from Finding Nemo:

His resume is very impressive, having composed for: The Shawshank Redemption (1994), The Green Mile (1999), Wall-E (2008), Revolutionary Road (2008), Skyfall (2012), The Iron Lady (2011), The Help (2011) and Saving Mr Banks (2013).

Newman will compose the Finding Nemo sequel, Finding Dory (2016).

8. John Barry

Image: nme.com

John Barry will forever be remembered for his work on the James Bond movies from 1962 to 1987. Starting with Dr. No (1962), Barry arranged the Bond theme we all know and love. Though it was Monty Norman who actually composed the piece of music.
Here is the BBC Concert Orchestra at the BBC Proms 2011 performing the theme by Norman, arranged by Barry:

Writing the music on Dr. No however, created the distinctive Bond sound - especially with soundtracks and title songs to Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965) and Diamonds Are Forever (1971). It is Barry who created the style we all associate with 007.

Born Free (1966) was another success for Barry. He not only won two Academy Awards, but won the hearts of audiences across the world with the title song. As well as all this, he wrote the music for Midnight Cowboy (1969), Dances with Wolves (1990), and Out of Africa (1985).


9. Randy Newman

Image: bojack.org

Nearing the end of the Top Ten, and another much loved Disney composer. Randy Newman has created many heart warming moments - particularly for his songs in the Toy Story trilogy. One that immediately springs to mind is When She Loved Me sung by Jessie in Toy Story 2 (1999).

The final film of the trilogy has a beautiful score, especially at the end as Andy finally says goodbye to his childhood toys. So Long certainly brings a tear to my eye:

Randy is the cousin of Thomas Newman and both obviously have a great time composing for Disney Pixar. Randy has now composed 7 feature films with the company: Toy Story (1995), A Bug's Life (1998), Toy Story 2 (1999), Monsters Inc. (2001), Cars (2006), Toy Story 3 (2010), and Monsters University (2013). No doubt he will compose with the team again soon.

10. John Williams

Image; brianlauritzen.com

How could you have a list without this musical genius? John Williams has composed the most iconic soundtracks of all time. The extraordinary themes from Star Wars, Jaws (1975), Superman (1978), E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) and Indiana Jones have made John Williams a household name. He is arguably the greatest film composer of all time.

Collaborating most often with Steven Spielberg, Williams has composed scores to Jurassic Park (1993), Schindler's List (1993), Saving Private Ryan (1998), War Horse (2011) and Lincoln (2012). 
Did you know? Williams composed the enchanting theme to Harry Potter too (Hedwig's Theme).
The man is a composing wizard!

Do you agree with my Top Ten list?

Which composers would be on your Top Ten?

Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog with your suggestions.

You could be featured in the next post.

Top Ten Disney Animated Villains

Clockwise from top left: Aladdin (1992), Sleeping Beauty (1959), The Little Mermaid (1989), Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), 101 Dalmatians (1961), and centre Pocahontas (1995)

Inspired by Maleficent's release last week, I thought it was time to look at some of the best Disney animated villains. My Top Ten lists have no particular ranking, but who do you think should be on top? 

Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog.

1. Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty (1959)

"Now you shall deal with me, O Prince - and all the powers of Hell!"

Putting a curse on a royal baby just because you weren't invited to her christening is pretty extreme. But despite her menacing and evil actions, Maleficent is one of the best loved villains in Disney's history. She is elegant and authoritative making her one of the most intimidating characters.
Take a look at her best bits in the video below:

2. Governor Ratcliffe in Pocahontas (1995)

"This is MY land and I make the laws here! And I say anyone who so much as looks at an Indian without killing him on sight, will be tried for treason and hanged!"

A greedy governor searching for gold in the New World, Ratcliffe is a selfish leader. The song 'Mine, Mine, Mine' sums this up nicely. Although he has two comical sidekicks - his pug Percy and the ever-so camp Wiggins (who is actually voiced by David Ogden Stiers who plays Ratcliffe) - the Governor is incredibly serious and violent in his claim for land and gold.
Check out Savages below:

3. Cruella De Vil in 101 Dalmatians (1961)


"My only true love, darling. I live for furs. I worship furs! After all, is there a woman in all this wretched world who doesn't?"

Cruella has got to be one of the best dressed villains on the list. Fashion is key to her evil traits as she becomes obsessed with getting the dalmatians' spots for her designs. Her hair and outfit has become iconic - a great fancy dress idea for your next party.
I loved Glenn Close's version of Cruella in the live action movie - a great family film recommendation.

4. Claude Frollo in The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

"And look what else I've caught in my net. Captain Phoebus, back from the dead. Another 'miracle', no doubt. I shall remedy that."

Frollo has got to be up there with the best worst Disney villains. I never quite realised how creepy and desperate Frollo's desire for Esmeralda is until re-watching the song Hell Fire below.
Seriously messed up stuff. 

5. Jafar in Aladdin (1992)

"You're speechless, I see. A fine quality in a wife"

I love Jafar's sarcastic comments in the film but he is most menacing when he transforms into an almighty power and giant snake. Check out the climax to the film below (here be spoilers):

6. Ursula in The Little Mermaid (1989)

"Now I am the ruler of all the ocean! The waves obey my every whim!"

Poor unfortunate Ariel...she signs Ursula's deal to be human but at a price - for her enchanting voice which originally seduces the prince, Eric. Ursula transforms herself into a human too - only to take Eric away from Ariel using her stolen vocals with the aim of ruling the sea. What a bitch. 

7. Evil Queen in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

"Magic Mirror on the wall, who is the fairest one of all?"

This is the original Disney animated villain. Sometimes known as Queen Grimhilde, the Evil Queen set the mark for villains in the first full length animation Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. I was pretty petrified of the Evil Queen as a kid. Especially with her transformation scene into the wicked hag: 

8. Gaston in Beauty and the Beast (1991)

"We're not safe 'til his head is mounted on my wall! I say we kill the Beast!"

Gaston seems like the leading man, but he is far from it. The arrogant bachelor not only fails at getting Belle to accept his awful proposals, he tries to send Maurice into the asylum and attempts to kill the Beast with an angry mob behind him.
We'll be having none of that, thank you!

9. Wicked Stepmother in Cinderella (1950)

"After all, we did make a bargain, didn't we, Cinderella? And I never go back on my word."

Another bitchy villain to add to the list. Lady Tremaine, otherwise known as the Wicked Stepmother, will do anything to make Cinderella unhappy. Eleanor Audley, who voiced the Wicked Stepmother, went on to voice one of the previous villains on this list - Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty.

Image: disney.wikia.com

10. Scar in The Lion King (1994)

"Out of the ashes of this tragedy, we shall rise to greet the dawning of a new era...in which lion and hyena come together, in a great and glorious future!"

Possibly the most evil character on the list? Scar murders his own brother to take the throne. That's rather villainous if you ask me. Jeremy Irons has the powerfully dark voice to match Scar's scheming nature. Be Prepared is the best example of this. Especially with the striking image, reminiscent of Nazi propaganda, of the marching hyenas obeying to Scar on top of the cliff.
For me, he is the best evil Disney villain. 

Who did I miss? 

Who is your favourite?
What makes a good evil villain?

Let Ticket Stub know in the comments and on Twitter @TicketStubBlog

Top Ten Festive Favourites

Clockwise from top right: The Snowman (1982), It's a Wonderful Life (1946), Love Actually (2003), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), Mean Girls (2004), Elf (2003), Meet Me in St Louis (1944) and centre The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

It's official! Less than one week until Christmas Day and it is finally time to watch all of our favourite festive films.

There may be lots of Christmas movies that we love, but what about those festive scenes and songs in other films that we sometimes forget about?

So with that, here are my Top Ten Festive Favourite films, scenes and songs which you will want to revisit or watch for the very first time.

Festive Films:

1. The Muppets Christmas Carol (1992)

Out of all the Muppet films, this has to be the best. It is a hilarious retelling of the classic Dickens novel with all the Muppet characters we know and love stringed together with plenty of catchy songs. Michael Caine also stars as the grumpy Scrooge. A great festive family favourite.

2. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

This film has become a Christmas classic and an all time must-see (featuring at number 27 on IMDB's Top 250). The black and white American movie stars James Stewart, as George, who comes to learn the true value of life with the help of a guardian angel named Clarence. There has been talk of a sequel which I am certainly not happy about. When you have a cherished classic, leave the sequels alone. This movie is too precious to ruin for myself and cinema audiences.

3. Love Actually (2003)

Love Christmas? Love Richard Curtis rom-coms? Well you'll love Love Actually, actually. Starring many famous faces including: Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Keira Knightley, Martin Freeman, Rowan Atkinson, Liam Neeson...the list goes on. And, of course, Hugh Grant stars as the PM. 

I cannot believe this film came out ten years ago!

4. Elf (2003)

Another film that came out a decade ago is Elf. This is a laugh-out-loud comedy with Anchorman's Will Ferrell taking the lead role of Buddy - a human elf who comes to New York to find his true family and identity during the festive period. Zooey Deschanel and Game of Thrones actor Peter Dinklage also star in the movie which is guaranteed to have you giggling. 

5. The Snowman (1982)

A nostalgic film from my childhood for number 5. The Snowman is an animated story about a boy who makes a snowman which comes to life on Christmas Eve. The Snowman takes the boy on a great journey through the sky. The whole 26 minute film is on YouTube for your enjoyment and features the atmospheric song Walking in the Air.

Festive Scenes:

6. Mean Girls (2004)

Two Christmassy scenes which you may have forgotten about from one of the best teen movies of all time. The first, and very short scene, involves some candy canes and a chap named Glen Coco:

The second is at the high school talent show, where Cady joins 'The Plastics' for their annual version of Jingle Bell Rock:

7. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

If you read my blog regularly, you know I love When Harry Met Sally. So naturally, I had to include this moment of seeing New York all covered in snow and Christmas lights. The clip also includes Harry and Sally celebrating New Year and having their first 'moment' together.

Festive Songs:

8. What's This? The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Jack Skellington has managed to leave Halloweentown and enter Christmastown. What's This? is the song he sings as he discovers this new land of snow, presents and merriment.

9. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Meet Me in St Louis (1944)

This song is played every year in December, but did you know the song debuted in Meet Me in St Louis? Judy Garland sings the classic Christmas tune in the MGM musical film.

10. Auld Lang Syne, Sex and the City (2008)

I know the movie isn't great, but I really like the version of this song. Auld Lang Syne plays over a montage with all the characters celebrating New Year's in different places, whilst Carrie runs to Miranda so she isn't alone when it hits midnight. Can I just ask how she runs in the snow in heels? HEELS? One of the many flaws in Sex and the City but I will ignore this for the fantastic version of the song.

Do you agree with my choices? Or did I miss any?

What will you be watching this season? 

Tweet your favourites @TicketStubBlog or comment below

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Top Ten Scenes in the Rain

Clockwise from top left: Bambi (1942), The Notebook (2004), Forrest Gump (1994), Spiderman (2002) and centre, Singin' in the Rain (1952)

It is getting to that time of year again, where the leaves fall and the rain pours. Therefore, inspired by all the dreadful weather this week, I have chosen my Top Ten Scenes in the Rain.

Adding rain to a scene can immediately make a moment more dramatic, romantic or poignant.
So, here are my top picks...

1. Forrest Gump (1994)

Out in the Vietnam War, Forrest sees all kinds of rain...

2. Bambi (1942) 

A childhood favourite. Not only is the animation adorable but the orchestration and the sound of the choir creating the storm is remarkable.

3. Pride & Prejudice (2005)

This is as close as we get to seeing Matthew MacFadyen as Mr Darcy in a wet shirt...but the chemistry between Darcy and Lizzie is evident here, made all the more dramatic with the rumbles of thunder between their dialogue.

4. The Notebook (2004)

Everyone wants to be kissed in the rain. Especially if it is with Ryan Gosling looking splendid with a beard.

5. Garden State (2004)

Screaming into the infinite abyss in the pouring rain with Simon and Garfunkel on the soundtrack. How could  you not love this moment? If you like the sound of Garden State, check out the Saturday Soundtrack I did back in August.

6. Shawshank Redemption (1994)

The rain, thunder and lightning fits perfectly to show Andy's release of freedom and triumph. Surely one of the best scenes.

7. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

Another wonderful kissing scene in the rain from the classic Breakfast at Tiffany's. There are indeed several kissing scenes in the rain on this list, which leads me onto number eight...

8. Spiderman (2002)

Although the film itself was rather unmemorable, the upside-down kiss in the pouring rain has become one of the most iconic scenes in cinematic history.

9. Sense and Sensibility (1995)

Poor Marianne. This scene truly shows her heartbreak after learning that the man she loves, Willoughby, is engaged to another woman.

10. Singin' in the Rain (1952)

No list could be without this scene. It made the Top Ten Dance Sequences in a Film list earlier this month, and it would be a crime not to include it here.You would never guess that Gene Kelly performed this scene with a 103°F fever!

What are your favourite scenes in the rain?

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