The Dark Side of Soundtrack: When Haunting Scores Were Part of Terrible Movies

Is it possible for a soundtrack to shine through a terrible movie, elevating it to a watchable experience? Sometimes, the answer is a resounding yes. In this article, we explore some of the best movie scores that were part of terrible movies, proving that even the most subpar films can have moments of brilliance when it comes to their musical score.

The Phantom Menace: A Musical Bright Spot in a Galaxy Far, Far Away

One can argue that The Phantom Menace (1999) is one of the most reviled entries in the Star Wars franchise, often cited for its hammy acting, plastic CGI, and the ever-befuddle Jar Jar Binks. Despite these negatives, the film's soundtrack managed to deliver a high note—a high note that many fans still hold dear. One track in particular, Duel of the Fates, stands out as a powerful and memorable composition, often celebrated as possibly the best Star Wars theme song outside of the iconic Imperial March by John Williams.

“Duel of the Fates” bursts through eardrums with an eargasmic intensity that’s reminiscent of the musical action ECW matches back in the day. The energy in this piece is palpable, and its presence alone can elevate the viewer's experience from one of sheer boredom to a thrilling sensory overload. Even the most ardent critics of The Phantom Menace might find themselves humming or tapping their feet to this haunting melody, making it a standout element in the film's otherwise tumultuous journey.

Cape Fear: A Blurry Performance Saves the Day

When it comes to terrible movie remakes, Cape Fear (1991) stands out for reasons of both the original and the reboot. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the remake of this 1962 thriller starring Robert Mitchum was a significant departure from its classic predecessor, with actor Robert De Niro delivering an over-the-top performance that doesn't come close to Mitchum's nuanced and brooding portrayal. However, amidst this storyline of narrative and direction misfires, there was one element that persisted: the legendary score by Bernard Herrmann.

Herrmann's score for the original Cape Fear is often considered one of the best in film history, and it was wisely reused in the 1991 remake. Herrmann's ability to invoke terror through a few well-placed notes is nothing short of masterful. Tracks like the strings that build up to a crescendo or the subtle whispers of the violin strings convey a sense of dread that stays with the audience long after the credits roll. The score becomes a beacon of clarity in a film that’s otherwise a blurry mess, providing a much-needed, and unexpected, respite from the chaos on screen. This choice to retain the score not only pays homage to a cinematic legend but also enhances the viewing experience, making the film slightly more palatable for many fans.

Psycho 1998: Renaissance of a Legendary Score

Another remake that fell flat is Psycho (1998), Sam Raimi’s take on Alfred Hitchcock's classic. While the original 1960 chilling affair, starring Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh, reaped critical acclaim and fame, the 1998 version starred Dennis Hopper and Sigourney Weaver. This remake was widely criticized, with Hopper’s performance drawing particular derision. However, one aspect of the film that managed to salvage some of its reputation was its reuse of Bernard Herrmann's iconic score from the original Psycho.

Herrmann's score for Psycho is a masterclass in horror film composition. The series of staccato notes and the keening violin crescendos that signal the approaching stalking are as indelible as the infamous shower scene. Even though the 1998 remake was panned, the decision to reuse the original score brought a sense of familiarity and comfort to the filmgoer. The haunting notes of the violins and the sharp stabs of the strings became a bridge between past and present, creating a communal thread that helped tie together two very different interpretations of the same iconic score. And despite the film's shortcomings, the use of the original score continues to be a highlight for many movie enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the five films discussed in this article demonstrate the fascinating interplay between cinema and music. While the visual and narrative elements of a film can be subpar, an excellent score can still make a significant impact, elevating parts of the viewing experience to a whole new level. From The Phantom Menace to Cape Fear to Psycho 1998, these scores serve as a reminder of the power of music and its ability to transcend the mediocre and even the terrible.