Clint Mansell is a very talented composer who brings a unique, distinct voice to film music.  I had become a fan of his work after his blistering score for "Sahara" and the unique themes from "Requiem for a Dream."  After finding out he had received the scoring assignment for the science fiction love saga, "The Fountain," I found myself looking forward to seeing what he would compose.  Happily, the anticipation bore fruit.

 

Mansell's score is a success on many levels.  For one, and always most important for me, he creates a thematic quality that defines and represents the tone of the movie.  So often that scores these days are content to blend into the background of a film to play it safe.  No doubt with "The Fountain," one listen from it will allow the listener to easily identify the picture it represents. 

 

The main theme is a very unique sounding one that beckons a call to an engaging brand of what I will call science fiction music.  What makes it succeed at a higher level, however, is the genuine presence of heartfelt emotion contained in the main and secondary theme.  It's music like this that gets me pumped up to see the movie. 

 

Mansell uses his Kronos Quartet, a group called Mogwai and a choir for this effort.  The choral aspects are subtle yet impactful and provide a layer of mystery to the story that the music tells.  Indeed, thoughtful science fiction movies often benefit greatly by having a choir involved since it adds the possibility of so many captivating textures, as is the case here. 

 

It's also interesting to see, that with so few musicians involved (comparatively speaking), Mansell is able to make the most of it and provide a surprisingly 'full' sound.  This score does not play with a sparse depth, and instead, offers music that makes one discard any thoughts of how it was scored.

 

In summary, if you've been clamoring for an original, thematic score, than please make an effort to purchase this soundtrack.  Composers like Clint Mansell deserve to be discovered.

 

Final Score: Science Fiction with heart and mystery. Clint Mansell blends originality with emotion to deliver a score that is unique and highly enjoyable.