The Golden Globes is typically the third mostly watched awards program, falling behind the Academy Awards and the Grammys. Because the Golden Globes take place prior to the Academy Awards, it is often viewed as a foreshadowing to the nominees and winners of the Academy Award. This year, five tremendous original scores were nominated (two of which made my list for Best Film Scores of 2010). If you're looking to add a few film scores to your collection, one or more of these albums would be a great addition.
1. The Kings Speech - Alexandre Desplat
Decca
Alexandre Desplat is no stranger to the Golden Globes. His original scores for The Painted Veil, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Syriana, as well as Girl with a Pearl Earring have all been nominated within the past seven years. Desplat's work for The Kings Speech is delicately sophisticated and sublime. Like Satie's gymnopedies, Desplat's fades into the background, never making a point to be heard - perfect for working, driving, and reading.
2. Alice in Wonderland - Danny Elfman
Walt Disney Records
Can Danny Elfman do no wrong? I listen to the Alice in Wonderland original film score in absolute wonderment. The juxtaposition of its childlike soundscapes and mature orchestrations begs the question of which came first, the movie or the music? Elfman so expertly paints a picture, one needn't see the film to know what's taking place. Fans of Elfman's music would agree with me that this may be one of his greatest albums yet.
3. 127 Hours - A.R. Rahman
Interscope
A. R. Rahman, best known for his award winning Slum Dog Millionaire soundtrack, has once again earned a nomination for his score to 127 Hours. A.R. Rahman composed a score less classical and more futuristic/synthetic techno. He composed the work after having read through the entire script, a first for him as he stated once in an interview. The score was largely based around the main character of the film, which gives the score a more American, and confident sound.
4. The Social Network - Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross (WINNER)
Null
The winner of the 2011 Golden Globe for Best Original Score is The Social Network. Trent Reznor, singer/songwriter, best known for his rock band, Nine Inch Nails, and Attticus Ross, also a composer and producer, teamed up to create a soundtrack that is unlike any other on this list. It's easy to see why the Golden Globe was awarded to them. Almost as outsiders of the film world, their unique point of view and musical perceptions allowed them to create a score that is digital, modern, and edgy.
5. Inception - Hanz Zimmer
Reprise
Without the use of main themes, Hans Zimmer's Inception film score is largely atmospheric. Though orchestrated and executed masterfully, it lacks in surprise and originality. It's your typical Hans Zimmer score that I'm sure you will love, as I do myself, but it's no surprise that it did not win the award.
