Ridley Scott’s Cinematic Spectacle with Joaquin Phoenix
Ridley Scott’s latest film, “Napoleon,” featuring Joaquin Phoenix as the legendary military leader, has made its grand debut in UK cinemas. While historical accuracy may be flexible, the film promises a compelling and entertaining experience, elevated by a unique musical score.
The Musical Choices: Beyond the Trailers
Setting the Record Straight
Contrary to the music used in the film’s trailers, which included tracks like Radiohead’s “The National Anthem” and Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs,” the actual movie does not feature these songs. Instead, the audience is treated to an original score by Martin Phipps, known for his work on “The Crown” and “The Railway Children Return.”
The Score by Martin Phipps
A Deep Dive into the Film’s Music
Martin Phipps, the composer behind “Napoleon’s” score, has created a soundtrack that complements the film’s grandeur and intensity. In a conversation with Deadline, Phipps shared his experience working with Ridley Scott, noting that Scott focused more on character development than prescribing specific musical styles or instruments for the score.
The Challenge of Composing for “Napoleon”
Phipps’s approach to scoring “Napoleon” was influenced by Scott’s emphasis on character rather than specific musical requests. This allowed Phipps the freedom to craft a score that deeply resonates with the film’s narrative and emotional landscape.
The “Napoleon” Soundtrack: A Blend of Originality and Tradition
The Full List of Tracks
The soundtrack of “Napoleon” is a testament to Phipps’s versatility and creativity. Below is the complete list of tracks composed by Martin Phipps for the film:
- Napoleon’s Piano
- Toulon
- Josephine
- Soldiers of the 5th Regiment
- Ladies in Waiting
- Austerlitz Kyrie – Martin Phipps & Ensemble Organum
- We Are Discovered
- Make the Rain Stop
- Look Down
- First Counsel
- Russia
- Return to France
- Waterloo Requiem
- Downfall – Martin Phipps & Ensemble Organum
- Bonaparte’s Lament – Martin Phipps & Ensemble Spartimu
Beyond Phipps’s Score
In addition to Phipps’s original compositions, the film also features traditional songs and Dario Marianelli’s score from Joe Wright’s 2005 adaptation of “Pride & Prejudice.”
“Napoleon”: A Visual and Auditory Feast
More Than Just a Film
“Napoleon” is not just a cinematic spectacle; it’s an auditory journey, thanks to Martin Phipps’s evocative score. The music plays a crucial role in transporting the audience into the world of Napoleon Bonaparte, adding depth and emotion to the film’s narrative.
As more details about the soundtrack emerge, the music of “Napoleon” stands as a significant element of Ridley Scott‘s latest epic. The blend of original compositions and traditional pieces creates a rich and immersive soundscape, perfectly complementing the visual storytelling of the film.
