movies/tv

The Best Movie Scores & Soundtracks of all Time

Musicnotes

Jul 14, 2023 • 21 min read

Movies can transport us to another world with amazing acting, elaborate sets and engaging screenplays. These elements create the basis of a unique universe, but the experience isn't complete without the right music. Some soundtracks are so well-done, they've become just as iconic as the films that inspired them. Here are some of the best with a look at what makes them so special.

1. 'The Lord of the Rings' - Howard Shore

One of the most successful recent film series, The Lord of the Rings owes a lot to its epic score. The music chosen by Howard Shore, including the main theme, creates a distinct sound that defines the setting of the movies. Shore used traditional instruments and choral vocals to bring Tolkien's world to life.

2. 'Pride & Prejudice' (2005) - Dario Marianelli

Classical music creates a score that takes the viewer back in time in Pride & Prejudice. Pianos, strings and other classical instruments are perfect to set the atmosphere of England at the turn of the 19th century. Specific piano compositions such as "Dawn" accent plot points and strong emotions from the characters.

3. 'Star Wars' - John Williams

The iconic "galaxy far, far away" wouldn't be the same without the distinctive musical score that fans have come to love. The main theme can be recognized instantly. So can the unique music that accents scenes featuring Darth Vader like “The Imperial March.” Throughout, John Williams combines percussion, brass and soaring melodies to add a sense of grandeur to the movie.

4. 'Jurassic Park' - John Williams

John Williams' score for Jurassic Park is defined by soaring notes and tense melodies, which capture the sense of wonder and excitement present in the first part of the movie and support the adventure in the second half of the movie when the dinosaurs attack. Williams uses orchestration to create a sense of excitement that complements the amazing visuals of the film.

5. 'Interstellar' - Hans Zimmer

Hans Zimmer's score for Interstellar has a unique use of the organ and gives viewers a haunting and otherworldly sound that perfectly complements the film's exploration of deep space and the unknown. The use of synthesizers also works well with the movie's space exploration theme.

6. 'The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly' - Ennio Morricone

Ennio Morricone's score for The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly is best known for its main theme, which features a haunting melody played on a whistle, accompanied by a twangy guitar and a chorus of voices. The theme perfectly captures the suspense, tension and epic grandeur of the Western movie genre.

7. 'The Godfather' - Nino Rota

The score for The Godfather is known for its theme "The Godfather Waltz." It works perfectly with the film's themes of power, family, and tragedy. Rota's score also includes other memorable pieces, such as the haunting "Love Theme" and the suspenseful "The Immigrant," which enhance the emotional atmosphere of the film, making it one of the movies with great soundtracks that people love.

8. 'Gladiator' - Hans Zimmer

Loss, redemption and honor are big themes in the movie Gladiator, and the score by Hans Zimmer plays into that. There is grand orchestration and percussion for the triumphant moments and the use of strings, brass and vocals for more emotional scenes.

9. 'Schindler’s List' - John Williams

Schindler’s List is an emotionally heavy film and the music is critical to capturing the depth of the subject matter. John Williams' use of somber strings and delicate piano further the emotional impact of the film, conveying the weight and gravity of living during the Holocaust.

10. 'Black Panther' - Ludwig Göransson

Culture plays a major part in the story and design of the film Black Panther, so it makes sense that culture is worked into the score and soundtrack. It incorporates African percussion, chants, and instruments, alongside a powerful main theme to bring the story to life. A curated playlist from rapper Kendrick Lamar also makes this one of the top movie soundtracks of all time.

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11. 'Singin' in the Rain' - Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, Donald O'Connor

Singin' in the Rain is from the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals and may be one of the best movie soundtracks of all time. The score combines lively orchestrations with catchy lyrics and choreography, showcasing the talents of the film's performers.

12. 'My Neighbor Totoro' - Joe Hisaishi

Joe Hisaishi's score for My Neighbor Totoro is whimsical and brings the magical and imaginative world of the film to life. Gentle melodies, playful instrumentation and a mix of orchestral and folk-inspired elements make the music enchanting and nostalgic, making this an option for one of the best movie scores.

13. 'Shawshank Redemption' - Thomas Newman

A film about the emotional toll of life in prison needs a poignant score that helps the audience connect to the characters, and Thomas Newman delivers. He uses piano, strings and subtle electronic textures to build a melancholic and introspective atmosphere that fits the story.

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14. 'The Dark Knight' - Hans Zimmer

The Dark Knight is intense, dark and dramatic, and it has one of the best movie scores to match that tone. There is a driving and relentless rhythmic pulse, which heightens the tension and suspense throughout the film. The Joker's haunting theme contributes to the film's gritty atmosphere and adds a sense of urgency and unease.

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15. 'Mad Max: Fury Road' - Junkie XL

Junkie XL's score for Mad Max: Fury Road is high-energy and relentless, perfectly capturing the adrenaline-fueled intensity of the film. The score combines electronic elements, heavy percussion, and distorted guitars to create a gritty and industrial sound that complements the post-apocalyptic setting.

16. 'Shaft' - Isaac Hayes

With one of the best movie soundtracks, Shaft is an icon when it comes to music used in films. The fusion of soul, funk and orchestra instruments from Isaac Hayes makes the main theme stand out while adding a sense of coolness and attitude throughout the film. It easily makes the list of

17. 'Inception' - Hans Zimmer

Hans Zimmer's score for Inception is haunting and suspenseful, and the film is one of the movies with the best soundtracks. Zimmer's use of the iconic "BRAAM" sound, along with deep bass tones, creates a feeling of impending danger.

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18. 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day' - Brad Fiedel

A dark and futuristic sound sets the mood perfectly for Terminator 2: Judgment Day. The score has synthesizers and driving percussion to enhance the action sequences and softer melodies to underscore the themes of survival in the film.

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19. 'Gone With the Wind' - Max Steiner

Romance and grandeur are key elements of the film Gone With the Wind and the sweeping score enhances that. Orchestral arrangements set the tone for the characters as they navigate the Civil War-era South.

20. 'The Wizard of Oz' - Judy Garland

When people think of the music from The Wizard of Oz, the beloved song "Over the Rainbow" performed by Judy Garland probably comes to mind. It creates a sense of wonder in the beginning of the film and the rest of the score adds whimsy to the story.

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21. 'Halloween' (1978) - John Carpenter

John Carpenter's score for Halloween is notable for its minimalist yet highly effective approach. The score features a simple piano motif accompanied by eerie synthesizers. The music creates a sense of tension and dread, heightening the suspense throughout the film. It is considered one of the best film scores, especially in the horror genre.

22. 'Blade Runner' (1982) - Vangelis

The score for Blade Runner embraces the futuristic and dystopian story of the film. Vangelis uses synthesizers, melodic motifs and ambient textures to add depth and emotion to the film's exploration of identity and humanity.

23. 'The Magnificent Seven' (1960) - Elmer Bernstein

Elmer Bernstein's score for The Magnificent Seven is a great example of a Western film soundtrack. Bold brass fanfare captures the spirit of adventure and heroism. The score's blend of Western and Mexican musical influences adds an energetic flavor to the film.

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24. 'Psycho' (1960) - Bernard Herrmann

Most people know the sound of the iconic strings that play during the shower scene in Psycho, but the entire film score builds a tense atmosphere for this thriller. Dissonant strings help create suspense and terror for the movie.

25. 'Braveheart' - James Horner

Braveheart is known for its inspiring and motivating qualities, helped along by its score from James Horner. Sweeping melodies and bagpipe motifs capture the spirit of Scottish heritage and the film's themes of freedom and heroism.

26. 'Back to the Future' - Alan Silvestri

The score for Back to the Future combines upbeat rhythms and orchestral arrangements to create a sense of time-traveling fun and thrilling escapades. Alan Silvestri's music complements the film's fast-paced narrative, capturing the nostalgia that has made the film a beloved classic.

27. 'Road to Perdition' - Thomas Newman

The score for Road to Perdition sets a somber and atmospheric tone, with melancholic melodies, and haunting string arrangements that reflect the film's themes of family, loyalty and redemption.

28. 'Seven Samurai' - Fumio Hayasaka

Fumio Hayasaka's score for Seven Samurai integrates traditional Japanese music elements within a Western classical framework, embodying the samurai spirit and honor depicted in the film. Hayasaka's music captures the intensity, drama and epic scope of the story.

29. 'Sicario' - Jóhann Jóhannsson

The track "The Beast" stands out as a tension builder in Sicario, utilizing relentless percussion and building layers of dissonance to heighten suspense. Jóhannsson's music enhances the dark and gritty tone of the film, enhancing its exploration of the moral complexities of the war on drugs.

30. 'Jaws' - John Williams

John Williams' score for Jaws is known for its iconic, menacing two-note motif, often referred to as the "shark theme." The music adds to the mystery and the unseen threat lurking beneath the surface. This is one of the top 100 movie soundtracks thanks to that recognizable theme.

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31. 'Rocky' - Bill Conti

The triumphant story of Rocky wouldn't be as inspiring without the orchestral arrangements, uplifting melodies and memorable main theme, "Gonna Fly Now" from Bill Conti. Decades later, the music still inspires anyone working to overcome obstacles.

32. 'Chinatown' - Jerry Goldsmith

Jerry Goldsmith's score for Chinatown is characterized by its haunting and melancholic nature, with a mix of jazz-inspired elements, noir aesthetics and a memorable main theme. The score's atmospheric qualities and evocative motifs add depth to the story and help create the film's distinct atmosphere.

33. 'On the Waterfront' - Leonard Bernstein

The score for On the Waterfront features dramatic and passionate orchestrations, reflecting the themes of corruption, redemption, and social injustice portrayed in the story.

34. 'Trouble Man' - Marvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye's soundtrack for Trouble Man blends soul, funk and jazz elements and is one of the best movie soundtracks. Gaye's smooth and soulful vocals are featured on the title track, "Trouble Man," which has become an iconic song in its own right and makes this one of best soundtracks.

35. 'Saving Private Ryan' - John Williams

Saving Private Ryan is accompanied by a score that is somber and poignant, capturing the emotional weight and sacrifice depicted in the film. Williams' music complements the film's portrayal of the realities of war and the bonds of brotherhood.

36. 'Prisoners' - Jóhann Jóhannsson

Eerie and atmospheric soundscapes set a harsh tone for Prisoners, utilizing haunting strings, pulsating rhythms, and minimalistic compositions. Jóhannsson's music adds to the film's sense of unease, mystery and psychological tension, creating a chilling and immersive experience.

37. 'John Wick' - Tyler Bates & Joel J. Richard

The score for John Wick, composed by Tyler Bates and Joel J. Richard, is fast-paced and heart-pumping, perfect for the film's intense action sequences. The music enhances the film's stylized and kinetic action, providing a pulse-pounding backdrop to John Wick's world of assassins.

Technology is at the heart of the plot of The Social Network, so the score leans into that idea with pulsating rhythms, glitchy textures and haunting melodies. The music creates a sense of tension, isolation and introspection, adding depth to the film's narrative.

39. 'Vertigo' - Bernard Herrmann

Bernard Herrmann's score for Vertigo features lush and romantic orchestrations, mysterious motifs and a sense of brooding melancholy. The score's emotional depth and evocative themes have made it a standout element of Alfred Hitchcock's classic film.

40. 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' - John Williams

With Raiders of the Lost Ark, the score features memorable and epic orchestral compositions, capturing the swashbuckling spirit and sense of discovery of the Indiana Jones franchise. Williams' music combines heroic themes and lively rhythms to elevate the action and add to the film's sense of grandeur and adventure.

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41. 'Once Upon a Time in America' - Ennio Morricone

This score blends melancholic melodies, jazz-infused elements, and nostalgic motifs reflecting Once Upon a Time in America’s sweeping tale of friendship and betrayal. Morricone's music captures the bittersweet and epic nature of the story, evoking a sense of nostalgia and deep emotion throughout the film.

42. 'Harry Potter & the Prisoner of Azkaban' - John Williams

Magic and adventure are core themes of Harry Potter & the Prisoner of Azkaban and the score adds to this. The use of orchestra music adds to the grand feeling the children have as they face epic challenges and darker tones increase the tension and mystery of the plot.

43. 'Lawrence of Arabia' - Maurice Jarre

Middle Eastern melodies help transport the viewer to the world of Lawrence of Arabia from Maurice Jarre. The audience can feel the desert landscape and the emotions of the main character thanks to the depth added by the score.

44. 'To Kill a Mockingbird' - Elmer Bernstein

Elmer Bernstein's score for To Kill a Mockingbird features gentle and lyrical melodies, incorporating elements of Americana and Southern folk music. Bernstein's music captures the innocence, empathy, and moral compass of the film's protagonist, Scout, as well as the themes of racial injustice and compassion.

45. 'Batman' - Danny Elfman

The score for Batman is memorable and brooding, blending orchestral arrangements with Gothic undertones. Elfman's music captures the dark and mysterious atmosphere of Gotham City and adds a sense of drama and heroism to the film. This is also one of the top selling movie soundtracks.

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46. 'Once Upon a Time in the West' - Ennio Morricone

Ennio Morricone's score for Once Upon a Time in the West is epic and atmospheric, combining haunting melodies and a signature whistling note. The music brings a layer of operatic intensity and melancholy to Sergio Leone's iconic film.

47. 'Dr. No' - Monty Norman

James Bond films are all about sleek action and suspense, and this score delivers on that for Dr. No. The iconic James Bond theme is featured with its distinctive guitar riff and suspenseful brass lines, making it one of the best film scores of all time.

48. 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' - Henry Mancini

The music for Breakfast at Tiffany's is romantic, elegant and emotionally moving. The score features the classic song "Moon River," which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Mancini's music captures the glamor, charm and underlying depth of the main character.

49. 'The Battle of Algiers' - Ennio Morricone & Bruno Nicolai

This score is powerful, and captures the tension, turmoil, and political upheaval depicted in the film. Morricone's music blends traditional Arabic influences with modern orchestration, utilizing percussive rhythms, haunting melodies, and dissonant motifs.

50. 'Dune (2021)' - Hans Zimmer

Hans Zimmer’s take on Dune is ambient, otherworldly, and fits into the atmosphere of this sandworm-ridden world perfectly, while also touching on the tone of Denis Villeneuve’s style. It’s safe to say that the score helps to texturize the film perfectly and is quite different from Zimmer’s other work.

51. 'Lion King' - Hans Zimmer & Elton John

Still one of the top-selling movie soundtracks ever, The Lion King became a worldwide phenomenon. Hans Zimmer and Elton John's majestic score features styles and lyrics that emulate a variety of cultures and tribes from across the African continent, including the timeless hit, "Circle of Life."

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52. 'Atonement' - Dario Marianelli

Dario Marianelli received an Oscar and a Golden Globe for Best Original Score with Atonement. The soundtrack to this film is often praised for its creative use of sounds inspired directly by scenes in the film, such as a rhythmic line created by a typewriter.

53. 'KOYAANISQATSI' - Philip Glass

Famous for his often minimalist modern style, Philip Glass created a masterpiece scoring KOYAANISQATSI, a film that explores the way technology, humanity, and nature are now intertwined. The simplicity and repetition combined with haunting chant-like choral lines create an eerily powerful result.

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54. 'The Master' - Jonny Greenwood

Perhaps best well-known for his role as the lead guitarist and keyboardist of the band Radiohead, Jonny Greenwood is also a noteworthy composer who created the original score for The Master. The soundtrack features rich, complex, and often dissonant selections that showcase strings, woodwinds, and simple percussion, plus a few period pieces, including "Get Thee Behind Me Satan" by Ella Fitzgerald.

55. 'Annihilation' - Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow

A perfect blend of synthesizers and full orchestration makes Annihilation another one of the best movies with great soundtracks. Salisbury and Borrow create endless suspense and leave you on the edge of your seat, giving movie watchers and listeners alike the constant and terrifying sense of impending doom.

56. 'The Untouchables' - Ennio Morricone

This Grammy-nominated score by Ennio Morricone features original rhythmic and suspenseful pieces along with soaring melodies. The Untouchables soundtrack also captures the sound of the 1930s Prohibition era with a selection of songs by the great Duke Ellington.

57. 'The Fountain' - Clint Mansell

Also nominated for several awards, Clint Mansell's score for The Fountain helped create an artful depiction of humanity's fear of death and pain. Focused heavily on strings (performed by the Kronos Quartet) and piano, the soundtrack also features electronic elements and a choir to create a deep sense of wonder, mystery, and drama.

58. 'The Hours' - Philip Glass

The music from The Hours is often regarded as one of the best soundtracks in film and was nominated for several awards. Written almost exclusively for strings and piano, the simple yet powerful score emulates the rich, building melodic lines of the Romantic music period.

59. 'Under the Skin' - Mica Levi

Considered one of the best films of its decade, the soundtrack to Under the Skin received widespread acclaim. Mica Levi's score features mostly viola and captures the otherworldly themes of the movie, creating a sense of horror with its quick and atonal lines.

60. 'The Mission' - Ennio Morricone

Another major award-winner, Ennio Morricone's score for The Mission features some of his most famous and recognizable works. "Falls" and "Gabriel's Oboe" are still widely used as popular performance pieces decades later.

61. 'There Will Be Blood' - Jonny Greenwood

Another gem from Radiohead member Jonny Greenwood, There Will Be Blood is one of the most successful modern movies with the best soundtracks ever. It also features the famous “Violin Concerto in D” by Johannes Brahms.

62. 'Akira' - Geinoh Yamashirogumi

Performed by a collective of over 100 musicians, the soundtrack to Akira by Geinoh Yamashirogumi features Indonesian-style metallophones and elements of traditional Japanese music. The score matches the fast-paced action of the dystopian animated tale, which helped set the standard for anime movies.

63. 'Requiem for a Dream' - Clint Mansell

The score of Requiem for a Dream is incredibly powerful and manages to capture all the darkness and tragedy of the film. Its most popular piece, "Lux Aeterna," was reorchestrated for other major films and projects, including the trailer for Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers.

64. 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' - Sir Malcolm Arnold

Often listed as one of the top 100 movies of all time, The Bridge on the River Kwai has one of the best movie soundtracks ever written. Composed by Sir Malcolm Arnold, it features an epic, sweeping score and the hit "Colonel Bogey's March."

65. 'A Beautiful Mind' - James Horner

Composed by James Horner, the soundtrack to A Beautiful Mind was nominated for both Golden Globe and Academy Awards. It is often praised for its ability to capture all the drama and romance that made this film such a hit.

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66. 'The Last of the Mohicans' - Trevor Jones and Randy Edelman

Perhaps one of the best movie scores ever composed, the soundtrack to The Last of the Mohicans is nothing short of epic. Written by Trevor Jones and Randy Edelman, the most popular piece is "Promentory," a driving piece that evokes the themes of courage and passion in this historical drama.

67. 'The Pink Panther' - Henry Mancini

Fun, jazzy, and nothing short of a phenomenon, the soundtrack to The Pink Panther by Henry Mancini has captured the hearts of audiences and music lovers across the globe. The playful theme features a memorable saxophone melody that emulates all the mystery and humor of Inspector Clouseau's misadventures.

68. 'Doctor Zhivago' - Maurice Jarre

One of the most well-loved movie scores in history, the soundtrack to Doctor Zhivago captures all the sweeping romance of this timeless classic. Maurice Jarre uses "Lara's Theme" throughout the score.

69. 'Babel' - Gustavo Santaolalla

Another major award-winning score, Gustavo Santaolalla's soundtrack for Babel heavily features the acoustic guitar in a minimalistic style. Strengthened with synthesizer effects, it bolsters the drama, intensity, and tragedy of the film.

70. 'The Last Samurai' - Hans Zimmer

Another classic from Hans Zimmer, the soundtrack to The Last Samurai partners beautifully with the highs and lows of this powerful, action-packed drama. The score features driving themes and lyrical melodies that help convey a wide range of emotions throughout the film.

71. 'Spartacus' - Alex North

Considered a gold standard in movie soundtracks, Alex North's work on Spartacus is still studied, reproduced, and performed to this day. The score was recorded using authentic antique instruments to create a dramatic and realistic effect for the film.

72. 'The Last Emperor' - Ryuichi Sakamoto and David Byrne

This epic historical drama features music by Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto and David Byrne of Talking Heads. The score of The Last Emperor includes a few nods to Chinese culture and music combined with sweeping orchestral arrangements.

73. 'Chariots of Fire' - Vangelis

Although set in the 1920s, the music for Chariots of Fire reflected the musical style of the 1980s when it was released. Vangelis's popular synthesizer and piano theme is used widely in marketing and entertainment today, often as a humorous parody.

74. 'La La Land' - Justin Hurwitz

This modern-day musical took the world by storm. Justin Hurwitz's soundtrack captures that classic Hollywood romance and magic, mixed with plenty of soulful jazz. La La Land features songs by John Legend, Thelonious Monk, and more.

75. 'Casablanca' - Max Steiner

Hands down one of the best film scores of all time, the music of Casablanca has captured hearts for over eighty years. Romantic and dramatic, it features Max Steiner's worldwide hit "As Time Goes By."

76. 'Taxi Driver' - Bernard Herrmann

This soundtrack by Bernard Herrmann captures the psychological turmoil of the lead character with a recurring saxophone theme that emulates that classic noir sound. Taxi Driver is also on Time's list of top 100 films of all time, with a score to match.

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77. 'The Great Escape' - Elmer Bernstein

Elmer Bernstein shows his range while capturing the humor, adventure, and tragedy of this ever-popular classic film. The theme from The Great Escape has a signature military march sound with a lighthearted feel that ebbs and flows.

78. 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' - John Williams

One of the most recognizable and best film scores in movie history, John Williams created an eerie yet magical theme with just five simple notes in Close Encounters of the Third Kind. The theme repeats throughout and serves as a major plot point in this science fiction classic.

79. 'The Virgin Suicides' - Air

The score to The Virgin Suicides has been deemed not just an epic movie soundtrack, but a noteworthy rock album as well. Written and performed by Air, a French Electronica band, critics have praised it for how well it captures the feeling of those tumultuous teenage years.

80. 'Edward Scissorhands' - Danny Elfman

Danny Elfman has partnered with legendary director Tim Burton for several films, including Edward Scissorhands. The music to this soundtrack has that signature mysterious and enchanting sound, mixing wonder and innocence with the strange, dark, and unusual.

81. 'Titanic' - James Horner

One of the top movie soundtracks of all time, the score from Titanic was written by James Horner but inspired by the music and sounds of Enya. Mixing simple orchestrations with ethereal vocals, it also includes "My Heart Will Go On," the smash hit sung by Celine Dion.

82. 'Legends of the Fall' - James Horner

A sweeping score helps capture the epic and melodramatic tale of Legends of the Fall. With an incredible performance by the London Symphony Orchestra, James Horner provides each key character with their own unique theme that helps tell their tragic and heroic stories.

83. 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' - Tan Dun and Yo-Yo Ma

Tan Dun wrote several solos for world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma when creating the soundtrack to Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. His powerful score beautifully combines elements of traditional Chinese music with Western orchestral sounds to set the tone for this martial arts film. Exciting, moving, romantic, and rich with culture, it's still considered one of the greatest films ever made.

84. 'Jackie' - Mica Levi

A critically-acclaimed look at a grieving first lady, Jackie gives audiences a window into the life of Jacqueline Kennedy after the assassination of her husband. Mica Levi's soundtrack to the film helps create a true piece of art, focusing heavily on strings to create a melancholy sense of beauty in grief.

85. 'Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence' - Ryuichi Sakamoto

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence is often considered a success largely because of its incredible soundtrack. Written by Ryuichi Sakamoto, who also starred in the film, the score is a compelling blend of 80s synthesizers, orchestral instruments, and nods to traditional Japanese harmonies.

86. 'Drive' - Cliff Martinez

Another one of the top movie soundtracks of all time, the score from Drive is known for its use of electronica sounds and synthesizers, giving it an 80s vibe. The director asked Cliff Martinez to take inspiration from the music of Johnny Jewel to create its throwback feel.

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87. 'The Third Man' - Anton Karas

Authenticity was the name of the game when Anton Karas composed the score for The Third Man. Written mostly for zither with a simple and straightforward sound, the soundtrack is celebrated for capturing the true sound of Vienna after World War II.

88. 'Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai' - RZA

RZA of Wu-Tang Clan composed the music for Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai. The score itself features a rich collection of hip-hop beats, while the soundtrack includes several vocal pieces by notable artists and rappers.

89. 'A Clockwork Orange' - Wendy Carlos

This cult classic film features a brilliant soundtrack by Wendy Carlos, blending classical and electronic music to tell the twisted tale of protagonist Alex. While the main character of A Clockwork Orange is obsessed with Beethoven, most of Carlos's pieces included motifs and excerpts by Gioachino Rossini, as well as Henry Purcell.

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90. 'Ben Hur' - Miklos Rozsa

Majestic, epic, and bigger than any other movie of its time, Ben Hur paved the way for other major historical dramas for decades to come. Miklos Rozsa took almost a year to compose the score and used a full orchestra to match the scale of this adventurous story while incorporating authentic Greek and Roman musical elements.

91. 'Dances With Wolves' - John Barry

This epic Western film features a sweeping score written for full orchestra by John Barry. The music to Dances With Wolves was intentionally written to emulate the point of view of protagonist John Dunbar. What results is a moving and romantic soundtrack that highlights trumpets and strings.

92. 'E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial' - John Williams

It's easy for most people to recognize the familiar theme of one of the top 100 movie soundtracks of all time. John Williams' music for E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial perfectly captures the innocence, wonder, and magical adventure of childhood mixed with the mystery of space.

93. 'The Omen' - Jerry Goldsmith

Jerry Goldsmith creates a sense of horror and dread with his soundtrack for The Omen. The music features several choral selections with lyrics sung in Latin to connect with the religious themes of this classic supernatural film.

94. 'Sunset Boulevard' - Franz Waxman

Franz Waxman composed the original score for Sunset Boulevard as the last step of film production. He took inspiration from a variety of musical styles and forms, from bebop and tango to 1920s movie music.

95. 'True Grit (2010)' - Carter Burwell

Carter Burwell was influenced by church music that was often sung during the time period True Grit was set in. Several 19th-century hymns were used to compose this powerful score, including "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms." The directors wanted a sometimes severe and fierce sound to match the drama and intensity of the story and its characters.

96. 'The Sound of Music' - Irwin Kostal

Considered by many to be one of the best movie soundtracks of all time, The Sound of Music score has sold tens of millions of copies and earned recognition as the second-greatest album in history by Billboard Music. While the music and lyrics were originally written by Rodgers and Hammerstein for the stage, Irwin Kostal took their compositions as inspiration for his moving and majestic score.

97. '2001: A Space Odyssey' - Alex North

2001: A Space Odyssey was a revolutionary film with significantly more music than dialogue. The original score was written by Alex North, which director Stanley Kubrick threw out at the last minute in favor of a collection of classical pieces instead, including the epic "Also Sprach Zarathustra" by Richard Strauss.

98. 'Finding Nemo' - Thomas Newman

Comprised mostly of strings, piano, and synthesizer, the soundtrack to Finding Nemo captures the heart and spirit of adventure of this smash-hit family movie. Thomas Newman's score transports audiences into an underwater world of tranquility and wonder, as well as immense danger, while following lovable characters on the greatest journey of their lives.

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99. 'The Thing' - John Carpenter & Ennio Morricone

While director John Carpenter hired Ennio Morricone to compose the original score for this sci-fi horror film, he ended up using many of his own compositions instead. The soundtrack for The Thing is made mostly from simple repetitive synthesizer notes, often bolstered with organ or strings, to create a mood of terror and suspense.

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100. ‘The Green Mile’ - Thomas Newman

Another diamond from Frank Darabont, The Green Mile is often overshadowed by The Shawshank Redemption in terms of prison dramas (by the same director), but this unique and iconic film also stands out with a sad, somber, and reflective score from Thomas Newman that plays on the heartstrings of the characters and the audience.