Are you still scrambling to get your 2014 Oscar picks in and win that pot of gold or at least bragging rights among your friends?
I am here to offer some help…at least in the music department.
Sadly, I have to say my favorite was not even nominated… Mark Orton for Nebraska his music made the movie. I love the sounds of Americana. Coupled with the cinematography Orton hit the nail on the head!! The harmonies and orchestration had more depth than any of the nominees in my humble opinion.
Following is my breakdown of the nominees for Best Original Score…
The Book Thief, John Williams
I thought John Williams deserved the Oscar last year for, “Lincoln.” Perhaps the Academy is looking away from the maestro just to get some new blood…well that theory doesn’t hold weight regarding perennial winner Meryl Streep. For this film Williams went back to more of the Romantic Period style we expect although a bit more pastoral than Wagnerian.
Gravity, Steven Price
Should have been John Williams penned! Williams and outer space = Oscar!
Her, William Butler, Owen Pallett
The soundscape is kind of cool and fits the quirkiness of the film. Although minimalist and slightly boring. Nice sounds though!
Philomena, Alexandre Desplat
Compositionally strong although a bit repetitive. We’ll see how the Academy reacts to the film in general, could take home the gold!
Saving Mr. Banks, Thomas Newman
Another minimalist, new-agey piano score. I think it will suffer from comparison’s to the mega hits of the Sherman’s legendary Mary Poppins songs.
My pick; Philomena, Alexandre Desplat
Click for past Oscar Picks and 2014 Best Song
Mike Slayen ~ Guitarist 