"King Arthur"
Composed by Hans Zimmer

An overlooked movie and also an equally glossed over score, "King Arthur" was a surprisingly well rounded project that slipped through the cracks in the summer of 2004. Maybe it became a non-factor since this movie did not offer popcorn fans the typical array of special effects, or maybe the PG-13 edits flawed the theatrical release. Either way, this project deserved better. Same can be said for Hans Zimmer's score.

Crafted in a tidy yet lengthy 7 tracks (6 if you elect not to count the song leading off the album), this score offers a more reserved Zimmer, who elects to don the film with an orchestral backing that does not give into an electronic influence. The themes are simple yet catchy, and create a heroic presence befitting this dramatic tale.

If you really want to delve into one of the highlights of this soundtrack, and frankly, one of the best action cues from 2004, then look no further than 'Woad to Ruin.' Halfway through this lengthy number, you will hear some of Zimmer's most inspired action music in quite some time. While most of the album comprises music of another tone, the soaring music from this action sequence is a true standout for me. This segment alone nearly makes this album worth recommending. Thankfully, that won't be the only reason to look this one up.

The anthem of the film is a simple theme that resounds a feeling of glory and honor. Truly, a style of music that adds an increased layer of strength to the characters. While the dramatic subthemes of this score grow a bit tedious late in the album, this anthem that represents Arthur and his knights remains a solid fixture.

Keeping with the continuity of the movie, the orchestral score also tracks well throughout the sequence of the film. It does not come across in an uneven fashion, and even the theme song (which plays over the film's end credits) is a decent and enjoyable bit of music. You'll notice that this song adequately offers themes from the score within it, which creates an enjoyable link between the two.

Final Score: "King Arthur" is no masterpiece in either score or film, yet it is a very solid entertainment offering on both counts for fans of the genre. Nothing groundbreaking, but certainly worth welcoming!