A score made of solid iron
Brandon Cutro | Tyler, Texas United States | 02/26/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It's nice to see Nick Glennie-Smith break from co-composing scores with Hans Zimmer and compose his own scores. I wish he would do it more often because this score really shines. The music consists of 2 parts: quick tempo, upbeat action cues and more laid back, slower and softer, romantic music. "Surrounded", "King for a King", and "All For One" are the best cues with the heroic main theme played in full force. The theme slightly resembles the theme from The Rock, which makes sense because Glennie-Smith co-composed that score with Hans Zimmer and Harry Gregson-Williams. These 3 cues feature strong brasses, powerful percussion, electric guitars, synths, and a deep male voice choir, which was used a lot in The Rock. A great rousing theme, which represents the second type of music I was talking about, is found in "Heart of a King", with a nice flute solo building into a full orchestral delight. "The Moon Beckons" also contains a nicely played flute solo, playing a slightly mournful tune. "A Taste of Something" contains a lovely string theme, while "The Pig Chase" (sounds like a Springer episode title) is a fun and enjoyable woodwind and percussion delight. "The Masked Ball" is a great period piece played in a Handel like fashion. However, I was disappointed about the end of this track, which ended abruptly as in the film. In the end, this score is well balanced and an enjoyable delight. High, high recommendations for this one."
Great soundtrack makes movie even better, yet stands alone
JennyM | Northern California | 03/15/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Mr. Glennie-Smith's incredible soundtrack takes this mediocre movie to the next level. The spirit (and action) of the film is captured so well in this score. The themes are played out and used eloquently; repeated but not overwhelmingly forced upon the listener. There is a lot going on, but these songs are easy on the ears and mind - a wonderful listen while not impeding on other aspects in your life.
Overall - a must-have soundtrack!"