Masterpieces of film music: from Hollywood classics to Japanese cinema

SummerHisaishi Joe

Joe Hisaishi – Summer

This piece was used as the main theme in director Takeshi Kitano’s film Kikujiro (released in 1999).

It was later featured in a Toyota Corolla commercial, which made it even more well-known.

The song can be considered a culmination of Joe Hisaishi’s work, incorporating a wide range of musical styles.

Stayin’ AliveBee Gees

Bee Gees – Stayin’ Alive (Saturday Night Fever)

Saturday Night Fever is a film released in 1977 and the breakout role for actor John Travolta.

This song is by the pop group the Bee Gees and is used at the beginning of the film.

It also reached number one on the U.S.

singles chart.

Dino SpectacleAlexandre Desplat

Dino Spectacle

It makes me imagine a gentle, dreamlike scene woven by dinosaurs.

Alexandre Desplat’s work fascinates with orchestral sounds that portray the mystery and grandeur of life.

While paying homage to the series’ iconic main theme, the piece adds a fresh interpretation that you can’t help but be drawn into.

This track beautifully underscored quiet, mystical moments in the film “Jurassic World: Rebirth of the Earth,” released in July 2025.

Vividly reviving that excitement and emotion, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the world of the movie once again.

Sailing AwayAlexandre Desplat

Sailing Away

The delicate tone of the piano makes me feel as if I’m witnessing the end of a grand story.

“Theme From Jurassic Park” begins by being played gently, almost like a lullaby.

From there, choir-like vocals and the orchestra gradually layer in, building toward a climax full of hope that genuinely brings a lump to your throat.

This piece plays over the moving finale of the 2025 film Jurassic World: Rebirth Isle, as the survivors leave the island.

A sense of relief after the adventure and hope for the future slowly fills your heart.

For those who’ve followed the series all along, I imagine countless iconic scenes will come flooding back with this music.

The Lost WorldJohn Williams

The Lost World (From “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” Soundtrack)

A very wild, adventure-filled piece that colors the second installment of the series, The Lost World: Jurassic Park.

In stark contrast to the glittering atmosphere of the previous film, the opening features percussion beating out an ominous rhythm that immediately draws the listener into the film’s world.

John Williams’s composition, with a melody that foreshadows a dangerous expedition, simultaneously highlights the island’s mystique.

You could say it superbly captures the film’s thrilling worldview.

For those who want to relive through music the tension of an island teeming with dinosaurs, this may be an irresistible track.

Theme From Jurassic ParkJohn Williams

Theme From Jurassic Park

When it comes to the music from Jurassic Park, this is the one! The moment that grand fanfare starts, your heart races with the feeling that an adventure is about to begin.

John Williams’s hopeful orchestral sound vividly brings back the awe and wonder of seeing dinosaurs for the first time.

The piece shifts masterfully to suit each scene, capturing not only the dinosaurs’ grandeur but also their mysterious beauty.

Featured in the 1993 film, the soundtrack was released in May of the same year.

It’s a timeless classic loved around the world—one you’ll want to listen to whenever you want to relive the excitement of watching the movie.

This Title Makes Me JurassicMichael Giacchino

This Title Makes Me Jurassic

When I hear this piece open with its ominous low tones, I can’t help but sense a major incident about to unfold.

The folk-like rhythms, razor-sharp strings, and pounding percussion seem to herald a story’s perilous beginning.

By the time the grand orchestra and choir reach the climax, I’m on the edge of my seat.

By the way, it’s the very first track on the soundtrack.