Masterpieces of film music: from Hollywood classics to Japanese cinema
“I’ve heard it somewhere but can’t remember!” “I forgot the song title or the artist’s name!” A special feature of famous film music for those in exactly that situation!
From themes of blockbuster films to the latest buzzworthy hits.
We’ve carefully selected a wide range—from nostalgic classics to fairly recent works!
In the first half, we’ll focus mainly on relatively new pieces; in the second half, we’ll introduce popular tracks, including hall-of-fame classics.
We hope you find the one song you’ve been looking for!
Please enjoy!
- [Film Music] Theme songs from Western movies: those unforgettable classics and popular tunes
- [Western Films] Moving Movie Theme Songs: A Compilation of Tear-Jerking Theme Tracks
- Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music.
- 【2026】A Roundup of the Latest Masterpieces and Popular Tracks in Film Music
- [2026] Relive those iconic moments… Recommended theme songs and insert songs from Western films
- Most popular songs from the Pirates of the Caribbean series
- [90s Western Films] Theme Songs & Insert Songs: Nostalgic Classics
- A compilation of film music played on the piano / that I want to play on the piano
- Main Themes and Theme Songs Throughout the Harry Potter Series
- The theme song of a romantic film that gives you a heart-fluttering, moving feeling.
- Popular songs from the Fast & Furious series
- Star Wars Music: All-Time Theme Songs and Popular BGM [2026]
- Theme and insert songs from dramas and films that color the story
Masterpieces of Film Music: From Hollywood Classics to Japanese Cinema (41–50)
FonsHara Morihiko
This is a piece whose quiet yet undeniable strength resonates deeply in the heart.
The delicate piano melody seems to eloquently convey the characters’ unspoken conflicts and calm resolve.
Precisely because there are no lyrics, grand scenes from the story come vividly to mind, and the protagonist’s emotions reach you directly.
It’s a masterpiece that sinks deeply into the soul—perfect not only for those who want to relive the film’s emotion, but also for moments when you want to calm your mind and face something; listening to it can give you a gentle, quiet courage.
Masterpieces of Film Music: From Hollywood Classics to Japanese Cinema (51–60)
VidaHara Morihiko
It bears a title that means “life” in Latin.
The delicate melody spun by the piano is truly breathtaking.
The powerful resonance dwelling in the silence seems to express the taut atmosphere of the characters becoming consumed by their art, and the cry of the soul that lies beneath it.
It’s a moving masterpiece that gently seeps into the heart—perfect for anyone who wants to relive the film’s emotion on a deeper level.
In addition to being included on the film’s soundtrack, this piece also has a video on YouTube showing the recording session.
The Night Before the AttackHara Morihiko
This piece portrays the protagonist’s quiet resolve and the turmoil swirling in their heart before a grand stage, rendered through the majestic resonance of strings.
The rich, layered ensemble superbly captures both taut tension and a resolve toward the future, striking a deep chord within the listener.
Featured on the album “National Treasure: Original Soundtrack,” releasing in June 2025, this work invites you to savor a sweeping sonic world that accompanies the characters’ emotions alongside the film’s moving scenes.
Haru’s MemoriesYuji Nomi
From the film The Cat Returns, this is “Haru’s Memories.” The Cat Returns is framed as a story written by Shizuku Tsukishima from Whisper of the Heart, and the tale begins when the heroine, Haru, saves a cat that is about to have an accident.
Both The Cat Returns and Whisper of the Heart were scored by Yuji Nomi, whose works are known for their gentle warmth.
In the film, the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra—familiar from game and anime music concerts—performs the score, and on the soundtrack a bonus track features the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, resulting in a work of high caliber even as a listening experience.
In the video, a Korean orchestra performs it in concert, showing its popularity abroad as well.
The flute, harp, and tender strings are truly soothing.
Eye Of The TigerSurvivor
It was used as the theme song for Rocky III.
With driving guitar and bass, a dynamic vocal, and goading lyrics, it’s a track that makes your blood boil.
It’s literally the “Tiger! Become a tiger!” song.
Your body can’t help but fall into the beat.
As Times Goes ByDooley Wilson
Casablanca is a classic film starring Humphrey Bogart, an iconic actor synonymous with hard-boiled cinema, and it remains popular to this day.
The jazz ballad that plays in the film alongside memories of his former lover is this song.
The Godfather WaltzThe Godfather
The main theme of the classic film composed by Italian composer Nino Rota is a grand waltz that blends a melancholy melody with the traditional music of Sicily.
Used as a central motif throughout the film, it powerfully draws the audience into the world of the story.
It was included on the 1972 soundtrack album The Godfather and was used in the opening of all three films in the series.
For this magnificent music, Nino Rota won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score and the Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media.
This work is recommended for those who want to enjoy a piece that explores profound themes such as family bonds and traditions, as well as power and conflict.