I usually think of themes as belonging to a character. I never thought of letting a character's presence directly manipulate the musical landscape before. That would give them so much musical power, and for the Joker I think that is appropriate.
I'm starting to really like your catchphrase: "stick to the story." Especially since I've started talking about music on my channel and I've realized how story-driven a lot of it is.
I love the 1989 score so much! I've listened to the soundtrack hundreds of times (and it's beautiful standalone), I've watched the movie loads of times (one of my all-time favorite films ever!) and it works brilliantly there, AND of course, the LEGO Batman videogame memories. (I think the score was re-purposed there brilliantly too!) One of my favorite elements of this soundtrack (that I thought you'd bring up in your video) was how the Joker and the Joker's henchmen are often underscored with quick, low piano. A lot of film scores use piano - but it's generally used in a soothing, flowing, beautiful way (A la Rocketeer) and almost never as an almost replacement for cello & bass pizzicato. (Pizzicatos often can sound humorous) This film is sprinkled with whole tone, disjointed piano everywhere (something you did briefly touch on) which is especially noticeable in the LEGO Batman tracks. (some of which are album cues, and others are film/studio cues) Anyway, I love this film (as well as its sequels - especially what Goldenthal added to the mythos) and you did another fantastic breakdown! :D Looking forward to more.
Great Video! I actually thought that the waltz was kind of his theme, but I guess it isn't? It often gets marked as his theme for example on youtube. Also, I always thought Elfman wrote that.
Didn’t even pay attention to the triple meter and it’s relationship to Joker. Good catch. I’m used to composers using instruments to tie a character, never a time signature. Interesting
Well done! I also agree - stick with the story - both in terms of music, but also that of lyrics and of singing and conveying the characters within the story. As a request/suggestion, would you consider doing an analysis of the 'Libera Me' from "Interview with the Vampire'?
I have a request for a film score analysis. Could you do “The Return of the Jedi” music that is played during the Sarlac pit battle? I would love to see that iconic piece of music analyzed.
