[Film Music] Theme songs from Western movies: those unforgettable classics and popular tunes
Putting aside silent films and the like, one of the elements essential to movies is, of course, music.
Many film fans would probably say that the brilliance of the scores that play during iconic scenes becomes part of their memories and stays with them.
So in this article, we’ve gathered a selection of great pieces centered on main themes from foreign films that have colored the history of cinema!
Rather than theme songs by singers or bands, we focus on main themes composed by the film’s score composers.
We’ve included many famous works across eras and genres, making this an article that both movie lovers and music fans can enjoy.
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- A compilation of film music played on the piano / that I want to play on the piano
- [Timeless Masterpiece] Popular songs from The Sound of Music. Recommended tracks.
- The theme song of a romantic film that gives you a heart-fluttering, moving feeling.
- Popular songs and insert tracks from the Mission: Impossible series
- Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music.
- [A Soundtrack Full of Masterpieces] Theme Song and Insert Songs from the Film “Titanic”
- Most popular songs from the Pirates of the Caribbean series
- Popular songs from the Fast & Furious series
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[Film Music] Theme songs from foreign films: those unforgettable classics and popular tracks (21–30)
Main TitleBrad Fiedel
Terminator 2, one of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s signature works.
The intense battles between Terminators—machines—must have thrilled every viewer! The main theme from this film was also unforgettable, wasn’t it? In fact, the percussive “da-dun dun da-dun” part of the main theme is said to evoke the Terminator’s heartbeat.
Of course, in the story, the mechanical Terminator has no heartbeat.
But if you know how the movie ends, you’ll realize why—and it just might move you.
Main ThemeMaurice Jarre
Lawrence of Arabia is a war film set in the Arab world during World War I.
It tells the story of Lawrence, a British soldier who unites the Arab peoples and fights the Turkish army.
When the film was released in 1962, it was common for movies to begin with music over a blank screen.
The piece that played then was the main theme composed by Maurice Jarre.
It’s a track that makes you excited, wondering what kind of film is about to begin.
I hope you’ll listen to it with that feeling!
[Film Music] Theme Songs from Foreign Films: Unforgettable Classics and Popular Hits (31–40)
Theme From ShaftIsaac Hayes
This uniquely groovy melody brilliantly captures the world of the film Shaft.
Chances are you’ve heard it at least once, regardless of your age.
Released in 1971 by Isaac Hayes, the piece is distinguished by its heavy funk rhythm and cool strings.
It stands as a landmark in film music, having won both an Academy Award and a Grammy, and reaching No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The lyrics, which sing the praises of the film’s protagonist, Shaft, were bold for their time, but their originality won people over.
It’s a must-listen not only for movie fans but also for lovers of soul and funk.
Dino SpectacleAlexandre Desplat
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.
The Lost WorldJohn Williams
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
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.
James Bond ThemeMonty Norman
Have you ever watched the 007 series? The 007 series is a hugely popular set of spy films in which James Bond, an agent of the British Secret Intelligence Service, saves the world.
Since the first film was released in 1962, numerous famous songs have been used throughout the series.
The most famous among them is the James Bond Theme, composed by Monty Norman.
Although it’s now known as a classic, it was originally written for a stage production.
What’s more, that stage production ended up being shelved.
It’s surprising to think that this piece might never have seen the light of day.