No one does big thematic orchestral scores like Powell anymore. (Maybe JHN?) He's literately the only one I'm aware of refusing to submit to the minimalist sound design trends of the last 20 years. Sorry, the new batch of composers who even try this kind of work just don't have the skills to pull it off.
Sounds kinda pretty, but also kinda wishy-washy, like a lot of Powell's music for animated films, as if orchestra is played like a keyboard. Not a big fan. Not of this WICKED stuff either. I prefer the Powell of FACE/OFF, ENDURANCE, SOLO...maybe even the BOURNEs. "Serious" live action stuff.
They're not wishy-washy at all. That Christmas is full of thematic passages which is amazing considering it looks like a fast paced comedy. I already commented on Wicked, I think the problem there was the score was regulated to "background" music by default because the song's took priority. These aren't my two favorite Powell scores, far from it, but they're richer and deeper than an average modern score full of short motifs, underdeveloped themes, and bland noodling sound design.
Really liked the movie.The Backgrounds , Lighting and compositing and animation were fantastic. The score was OK.I really like Powells scores a lot...this however is ( for me ) not one of his strongest.It lacks a bit of thematic theme which he is usually so strong with. In parts I thought it was too much and overblown for such a story and film. And yes I agree wit my predecessor it felt like background music but in a random way..not in a good laid back underscore kinda way...
It lacks a bit of thematic theme which he is usually so strong with.
I agree with this. Powell's music is right up front with a full orchestra. Some of it reminded me of HTTYD as far as orchestrations, but I didn't hear a main theme. The movie was cute but perhaps a bit too woke for some members. Overall, we liked it.
He wrote a perfectly fine score and I agree it’s missing a central theme. But more disappointing is Powell passed up the opportunity to write a “Christmas” score as nothing really gives off the holiday vibes.
He wrote a perfectly fine score and I agree it’s missing a central theme. But more disappointing is Powell passed up the opportunity to write a “Christmas” score as nothing really gives off the holiday vibes.
Exactly -- was really hoping for something more Christmassy.
