Music
@Billionhands

Iconic Soundtracks from Oscar-Winning Films

564 votes

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  1. 1

    Schindler's List

    189 votes
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    2.5 M

    Tells the true story of Oskar Schindler

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    The score for 'Schindler's List', composed by John Williams, is a masterful example of how music can evoke deep emotions and resonate with the gravity of the narrative. Its main theme, performed by Itzhak Perlman, has become a poignant symbol of the film, earning the Oscar for Best Original Score for its undeniable impact.

    • Schindler saved over 1000 Jews

    • Based on true events

    • Depicts a period in Oskar Schindler's life

    • Based on the novel by Thomas Keneally

  2. 2

    The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

    162 votes
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    2.1 M

    Innovative visual effects

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    Howard Shore's score perfectly complements the epic fantasy world of Middle-earth, with memorable tracks like 'Concerning Hobbits' and 'The Bridge of Khazad-dûm'.

    • Won the Oscar for Best Cinematography

    • Features many practical effects with extensive miniatures

    • Praised for its stunning visual effects

    • Epic high-fantasy adventure

  3. 3

    The Lion King (1994)

    95 votes
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    1.3 M

    Hans Zimmer's score

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    Hans Zimmer's score, combined with Elton John's songs, creates a timeless and enchanting soundtrack that complements the film's African setting.

    • Features unforgettable songs

    • Original songs from the animated classic

    • One of the most deserved Oscar wins for a musical composer

  4. 4

    2001: A Space Odyssey

    55 votes
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    714.7 K

    Use of iconic classical pieces

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    The score, featuring classical pieces like 'Also sprach Zarathustra', is a landmark in film music, perfectly capturing the film's themes of evolution and technology.

    • Includes orchestral masterpieces

    • Music by Richard Strauss

    • Music by Johann Strauss Jr.

    • Music by György Ligeti

  5. 5

    Black Panther

    49 votes
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    644.5 K

    Holds the highest Rotten Tomatoes score among top-grossing superhero films

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    Ludwig Göransson's score blends African instrumentation with modern elements, creating a unique and impactful soundtrack that enhances the film's cultural identity.

    • Has broken box office records

    • Has reached a global audience

    • Has left an indelible mark on popular culture and society

    • Won Academy Awards for Best Original Score, Costume Design, and Production Design

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  7. 6

    Chariots of Fire

    6 votes
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    74 K

    Music that surpassed another very famous film

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    Vangelis' electronic score, particularly the theme song, is synonymous with determination and achievement, capturing the essence of the film's themes.

    • Vangelis received an Oscar for the soundtrack

    • Mythical Oscar-winning theme

  8. 7

    West Side Story

    6 votes
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    75.4 K

    Brilliant adaptation of the Broadway musical

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    The score, featuring iconic songs by Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim, is a masterpiece of musical cinema, blending romance, suspense, and emotion.

    • Winner of 10 Oscars

    • Romantic and dramatic musical

  9. 8

    Jaws

    1 votes
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    1.5 K

    Chilling beach music

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    "Jaws" soundtrack is iconic for its masterful use of a simple yet terrifying musical motif that became synonymous with the film's suspense. Its innovative composition and cultural impact earned it an Academy Award for Best Original Score.

    • Iconic soundtrack

    • Suspenseful and terrifying atmosphere

    • One of the most recognizable soundtracks

    • Terrified thousands of people

  10. 9

    Psycho (1960)

    1 votes

    Iconic and recognizable soundtrack

    (+4)

    Bernard Herrmann's score, particularly the 'shower scene' music, is a masterclass in suspense, elevating the film to a thriller classic.

    • Academy Award winner for Best Original Score

    • Composed by the legendary Bernard Herrmann

    • Significantly contributes to the suspenseful atmosphere

    • Innovative in its use of shrieking strings

  11. 10

    Star Wars (1977)

    0 votes

    Academy Award winner for Best Original Score

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    John Williams' score is instantly recognizable and has become synonymous with the sci-fi genre, featuring iconic themes like the 'Main Title' and 'Duel of the Fates'.

    • Composed by the legendary John Williams

    • Iconic and memorable musical themes

    • Significantly contributes to the epic atmosphere

    • Influential on subsequent film music

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