Dating back to the "Medal of Honor" days, when Michael Giacchino was hailed as a sterling newcomer to the scene, a score like "Mission Impossible: 3" was the type of major motion picture score I have long been waiting for from him. The wait has paid off -- he hits the mark solidly.
Giacchino is a very interesting composer. While his track record with Video Game scores are nothing short of marvelous, his television and motion pictures scores have been only moderately enjoyable. Perhaps he has spoiled us in his early days, with efforts that drew critical praise and comparisons to the great maestro himself, John Williams. It's in my opinion that it was through Giacchino's handiwork that orechestral works are now common practice for the video game arena. Still, I was always waiting in the wings for a breakout score in the cinema realm from him and now I got my wish -- the coming our party is here. While "The Incredibles" was a nice effort, the energy of this album reduces that to a mere sidenote. Here we have Giacchino fully charged and unleashing a torrid brand of energy.
The best way to categorize this score is one full of action and suspense. There is very little in the way of dispensable, slow underscore. Instead, this one rings forth as a blockbusting effort and is a score that can keep you engaged the whole time through. While I normally like a bit more of a balance in my film music, I can pass on such a complaint here because the action tracks are so involving! Even beyond that, it's simply welcoming to hear Giacchino reclaim the mastery of his video game years by delivering a bristling effort such as this.
The tip of the cap to the older theme is here as well and concocted with a refreshingly energized tempo. It's not overplayed, rather, it's utilized in strategic areas of the film and score. After all, what's a Mission Impossible film without it's world-famous theme?
With so many soundtracks coming and going, and many going before they are even coming, "Mission Impossible: 3" is not ashamed of what it is and blasts its musical notes for the whole world to hear. It's fast paced, energetic, and most importantly of all -- consistent. What more can you want? On top of all that, the running time for the soundtrack is over 60 minutes and there isn't a commercial, non-orchestral number to be found. This is the type of disc you can plug into your player and let it roll on and on and it won't skip a beat.
Welcome to the world of summer blockbusters, Mr. Giacchino.
Final Score: For an action packed adventure, look no further than the music from "Mission Impossible 3 ". It's well done and offers many exciting scenarios for you to indulge in.
