Masterpieces of film music: from Hollywood classics to Japanese cinema

The theme from JawsJohn Williams

John Williams: Theme from Jaws (Boston Pops)

Another terrifying score by John Williams.

Unlike Darth Vader’s theme, it’s filled with the sense of the ocean’s gangster, Jaws, closing in.

It carries an atmosphere of something stealthily creeping up from somewhere.

As the sound grows louder, it feels like “Ah! I’m going to be eaten!”—music brimming with tension.

MISSIONMAZZEL

MISSION

MAZZEL’s invigorating track made waves as the Japanese theme song for the film “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.” With its weighty hip-hop rhythm and powerful lyrics, the song leaves a strong impression, perfectly aligning with the film’s passionate story and inspiring listeners with courage and energy.

Released digitally in March 2023, it received an enthusiastic response, with the music video surpassing one million views in just two days.

Expressing the strength to persevere even when facing obstacles, this song is perfect for moments when you want to regain confidence.

Enjoy this track that stirs bravery.

When a man loves a womanMichael Bolton

When a man loves a woman <When a man loves a woman> 'When a man loves a woman'

It’s the theme song of the film with the same title.

Michael Bolton’s cover of Percy Sledge’s song became a huge hit.

It has often been used in commercials in Japan.

It’s a classic tearjerker about a husband (Andy Garcia) who devotedly supports his wife, played by Meg Ryan, after she becomes an alcoholic.

Arrival of the caravanMichel Legrand

Arrival of the Caravan (Michel Legrand)

This is a piece composed by French pianist and film composer Michel Legrand, featured in the 1967 film The Young Girls of Rochefort.

The stylish, witty jazz waltz was also used in a Mitsubishi Lancer commercial.

Its upbeat, dynamic feel makes it a perfect fit for a car advertisement.

FlashQueen

Queen – Flash (Official Video)

When you think of the movie Flash Gordon, it has to be this song! Among the soundtrack crafted by Queen, this is one of the most memorable tracks.

Released in December 1980, it reached No.

10 on the UK charts.

Its appeal lies in the fusion of rock that brilliantly captures the film’s world and sweeping synthesizers.

Composed by Brian May and performed as a duet with Freddie Mercury, the song is a perfect collaboration between cinema and music.

Many people may recognize the catchy intro from hearing it somewhere.

It was later included on Queen’s Greatest Hits and continues to be loved by generations.

It’s the perfect track not only to enjoy while watching the film, but also whenever you want to feel your spirits lift!

Thus Spoke ZarathustraRichard Georg Strauss

Also Sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30 – Strauss

A classical piece used in Stanley Kubrick’s landmark 1968 sci-fi film, 2001: A Space Odyssey.

The introduction that plays with the main title is very famous, but the music was not written for the film; it is a symphonic poem composed in 1896 by Strauss, inspired by Nietzsche’s book of the same name.

2001: A Space Odyssey Thus Spoke ZarathustraRichard Strauss

2001 A Space Odyssey Opening in 1080 HD

2001: A Space Odyssey is a masterpiece by director Stanley Kubrick, often described as the origin of science fiction films.

The film features various classical pieces, and the most famous is Richard Strauss’s Also sprach Zarathustra, which plays at the beginning.