Moviesoundtracksand scores play a crucial role in shaping the emotional landscape of films, providing a sonic backdrop that enhances storytelling and evokes a range of feelings. They serve as an integral component of the cinematic experience, influencing the audience’s connection to characters and narrative themes. A well-craftedsoundtrack can elevate key moments, create atmosphere, and contribute to a film’s overall impact.
Very few people are more experienced and accomplished in this field thanRandy Newman. Born in 1943, Newman has amassed a prolific and illustrious career spanning several decades. His unique style blends elements of pop, jazz, and classical music, showcasing a versatility that has made his compositions iconic across a plethora of genres. Newman’s accomplishments include multiple Academy, Grammy, and Emmy Awards wins, making him one of the most revered and influential figures in the world of film composition. Below we look at his 10 greatest movie soundtracks and ranked them.
10Seabiscuit (2003)
Seabiscuit
Seabiscuitis a biographical sports drama chronicling the inspiring story of the undersized racehorse named Seabiscuit and its impact during the Great Depression. Starring Tobey Maguire and William H. Macy, the movie was a hit with critics and audiences alike and currently holds a solid 78% approval score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Why the Soundtrack Is Great
Newman masterfully captures the emotional depth and historical significance of the narrative, employing a blend of orchestral arrangements and Americana influences, evoking the time period and setting of the film. His compositions effectively underscore pivotal moments, enhancing the mounting drama in the story. Amazingly, Newman’s score somehow seems to work hand in hand with the development of the characters, as he utilizes motifs and melodies to illuminate the inner workings of the protagonists and their relationships.Stream on Paramount+
9Awakenings (1990)
Awakeningsis a drama film based on Oliver Sacks' memoir, directed by Penny Marshall.Starring Robin Williamsand Robert De Niro, the movie explores the effects of an experimental drug on patients with encephalitis lethargica, delving into the ethical dilemmas surrounding medical advancements and the human condition.
One of Newman’s most melancholy soundtracks ever written, through delicate piano melodies and poignant orchestrations, he skillfully underscores the triumphs and tribulations of the characters. Whilst mostly downbeat and somber, there are occasional uplifting moments, where the music enhances the film’s themes of hope and human connection, providing a nuanced layer that complements the performances and narrative, making it an integral element of the overall cinematic experience.Stream on Paramount+
8James and the Giant Peach (1996)
James and the Giant Peachis a film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book of the same name.Directed by Henry Selickand produced by Tim Burton, the movie combines live-action with stop-motion animation to bring Dahl’s imaginative tale to life. The story follows James, an orphan who embarks on a magical journey inside a giant peach along with a group of anthropomorphic insects as viewers bear witness to the power of friendship, resilience, and youthful imagination.
Why the Soundtrack Is Great
Interestingly, Newman was not Selick’s first choice to compose the film’s score, but instead was pushed by Disney execs. Not such a bad idea, though, considering his soundtrack forJames and the Giant Peachperfectly demonstrates his ability to craft enchanting and whimsical compositions that align seamlessly with the film’s magical narrative. The score employs a diverse range of musical styles, from playful and energetic tunes during adventurous sequences to more subdued and emotional pieces when needed.Stream on Disney+
7Marriage Story (2019)
Marriage Story
Directed by Noah Baumbach,Marriage Storyis a thought-provoking and emotional drama portraying the complexities and challenges of a marital dissolution between a theater director and an actress. The film navigates the emotional intricacies of divorce and features stellar performances from Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver.
The soundtrack is a masterful accompaniment to the film’s exploration of love, loss, and personal growth. The minimalist and introspective compositions mirror the complexities of the characters' internal emotional journeys. Newman’s use of subtle piano melodies and restrained orchestration adds an extra layer of emotion to the storytelling and earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score.Stream on Netflix
6Pleasantville (1998)
Pleasantville
Pleasantville follows two modern teenagers who find themselves transported into a 1950s black-and-white television show. As they navigate their new surroundings, they begin to influence the previously static world around them, bringing color and change to a town that has remained unchanged for decades. Through their journey, the film explores themes of conformity, transformation, and self-discovery within the context of an idealized past.
Pleasantvilleis a fantasticunderrated satirical comedy-drama gemdirected by Gary Ross, starring Tobey Maguire and Reese Witherspoon. Two modern-day siblings find themselves transported into the black-and-white world of a 1950s television sitcom. As they introduce change and individuality to the seemingly idyllic town of Pleasantville, color gradually permeates the monochrome setting, challenging the residents' conformity and ushering in a thought-provoking exploration of societal norms and personal liberation.
Yet another Oscar-nominated score, here, the music seamlessly blends nostalgic tones with contemporary elements, reflecting the evolving nature of the characters and their surroundings. The evocative score during the characters' transition to color is particularly impressive and memorable.Rent on AppleTV
5The Princess and the Frog (2009)
The Princess and the Frog
Taking Disney back to the traditional2D hand-drawn animation style,The Princess and the Frogis an animated musical movie set in a bustling 1920s New Orleans. It reimagines the classic fairy tale with a Disney twist as it follows Tiana, a hardworking waitress, and her journey to break a curse. Beautifully animated and full of weird and wacky characters,The Princess and the Frogmay not have set the box office ablaze, but remains an absolute classic in Disney’s back catalog.
Absolutely chock-a-block full of jazzy musical numbers, Newman’s soundtrack forThe Princess and the Frogskillfully integrates various musical genres, capturing the vibrant and diverse cultural backdrop of New Orleans. The lively and empowering “Almost There,” performed by Anika Noni Rose, in particular, was met with high praise and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.Stream on Disney+
4Monsters, Inc (2001)
Monsters Inc.
With a fantastically unique and creative premise based around a wacky world of monsters who generate power by scaring children, the Disney Pixar classic,Monsters, Inc.showcases absolutely everything audiences have grown to love about the studio. Featuring the voices of John Goodman and Billy Crystal, things take an unexpected turn when a human child enters the monster world, challenging preconceptions and fostering a heartwarming bond between the characters. Viewers are treated to the perfect bend of heart, excitement and humor.
Newman’s soundtrack forMonsters, Inc. effectively enhances the film’s narrative by capturing the whimsy and heart at the core of the story. The playful melodies and orchestral arrangements mirror the fantastical world of monsters, infusing each scene with a sense of wonder. The final song played during the end-credits (the sole full song with lyrics), “If I Didn’t Have You,” performed by John Goodman and Billy Crystal, stands out as the finest moment on the entire soundtrack. It earned Newman an Academy Award for Best Original Song, making it his first Oscar win after a previous 16 nominations!Stream on Disney+
3Cars (2006)
Directed by John Lasseter,Carsis a computer animated Pixar movie that centers around a race car named Lightning McQueen. Accidentally detoured to the small town of Radiator Springs, McQueen is introduced to a new group of friends and a whole new way of life. The film features vibrant animation, memorable characters, and a cute storyline that made it a hit with fans, who enjoyed its high-energy racing sequences and heartfelt humor.
Here, Newman’s perfectly captures the road trip-inspired atmosphere. The Americana-infused score, featuring both original compositions and well-chosen classics, complements the visual narrative of the open roads of America, NASCAR-style racing and self-discovery. The song “Our Town,” performed by James Taylor, was a particularly poignant musical moment, and earned Newman a Grammy Award for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture.Stream on Disney+
2Toy Story 2 (1999)
Toy Story 2
The sequel to the acclaimedToy Story,Toy Story 2extends the journey of Woody and Buzz Lightyear with aplomb. This heartwarming and hilarious adventure introduces viewers to a range of new friends and villains, while reacquainting them with familiar faces. Its seamless blend of emotion and humor has secured its place as one of the most cherished and successful animated movies in history, establishing a benchmark forsubsequent animated sequels.
Newman’s soundtrack forToy Story 2showcases his ability to infuse animated worlds with emotion and depth. The score seamlessly integrates with the film’s themes of identity and friendship, using memorable melodies and dynamic orchestrations. The greatest example of this is the beautiful “When She Loved Me,” sung by Sarah McLachlan, that accompanies Jessie’s emotional backstory. The song was met with widespread critical claim and won the Grammy for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media.Stream on Disney+
1Toy Story (1995)
Released in 1995,Toy Storyrevolutionized the animation industry, introducing audiences to Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and a world where toys come to life. It was the first feature-length film entirely created using computer-generated imagery (CGI) and played a huge role in redefining the perception of animation as solely children’s entertainment, appealing to audiences of all ages with its rich characters, intricate storytelling, and universal themes of friendship and self-discovery.
Newman’s soundtrack is a fundamental element of the film’s enduring success. The entire soundtrack perfectly encapsulates the essence of childhood wonder and friendship. The song, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” has since become an iconic musical motif synonymous with the film’s spirit and is often cited among Disney’s all-time greatest songs.Stream on Disney+
