Various Artists
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
(2005)
Reviewed by Brian A. Smith
Disclaimer: I have not seen this movie yet. My preconceptions are formed strictly from having re-read the Chronicles several times over. Tracks 1-13 are the score of the movie, as composed by Harry Gregson-Williams. "The White Witch" is suitably ominous, as would be expected when that character makes her entrance.
"To Aslan's Camp" struck me as appropriate, as the music here is alternately exciting (as one would be when meeting a king) and fearful, a concession to his power and the respectful dread that might be experienced when faced with such a forceful presence. "The Battle" rages in intensity, and, in an odd way, recalls a scene from "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," a Disney classic scene from Fantasia.
There are four original songs here, one of which does not appear in the movie. "Can't Take It In," performed by Imogen Heap, is ethereal, somewhat Irish, and sounds quite a bit like old Enya tracks. "Wunderkind" by Alanis Morissette, left absolutely no impression, and would have to be seen within the movie to appreciate its context. The best of these is Tim Finn's "Winterlight," which seems eerily reminiscent of George Harrison's solo work. Finn (Crowded House, Split Enz, Finn Brothers) immediately gives any compilation or soundtrack credibility, and this song is no exception.
Gregson-Williams does a fine job in creating mental pictures of the events on screen, and allows someone like myself (who, again, has not seen the movie) to create events from the books in my mind. While not as memorable as say, John Williams' Star Wars soundtracks, the composer does a fine job of marrying the sound to the script -- nothing more can be asked for, really.
4 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2005Reviewed by Joe MontagueNot having seen the movie The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (to be released December 9th) I feel a bit disembodied when it comes to discussing the soundtrack. It is a little bit like discussing the song "I'll Say A Little Prayer" from the movie My Best Friend's Wedding without having the benefit of that glorious restaurant scene with the cast singing. Nevertheless let…
