I've been reviewing soundtracks for quite some time at ScoreNotes.com and for the better part of a calendar year, it seems as though most of the scores that pass my way are those that qualify for a 'B' ranking and seem to blend into one another. In other words, the crop of film scores currently being produced are neither poor enough to be graded below average or bold enough to be given high marks. I've been stuck in the middle of the road on a highway named "Passable."
So here we have the summer of 2006 now taking stride and perhaps the most eagerly anticipated score of the season has arrived, coming courtesy of John Ottman. Ottman, who works regularly with director Bryan Singer, has grabbed the baton from John Williams in "Superman Returns" and has taken flight with an outstanding effort of his very own.
Ottman has done what the whole world had hoped he would -- he remained faithful to the existing body of work developed by John Williams from the original "Superman" films. Using the strength of the original themes as a springboard, Ottman creates a canvas of music that remains loyal to the original, beloved score but also steers it in an updated direction that fans can appreciate.
Personally speaking, what surprised me the most (in a positive way, I might add), is the fearlessness of stating the main Superman theme in it's new variations. Specifically, the first 20+ minutes of the score play out in a hard charging, highly energized manner. All the main themes we remember from the original film are here and exceptionally represented. I found it very refreshing that Ottman did more than simply hint at the music of the past -- I think he genuinely embraced it and honored it.
Another favorable aspect to the music here is the use of choral accompaniment during certain moments of the score. I always think that the use of a choir, when deployed correctly and with balance, enhance the depth and scope of any soundtrack. Indeed, the inclusion here brings "Superman Returns" to epic heights.
The sound quality of the soundtrack must also be given accolades. The mix is perfect and the notes come at you in a very clean, crisp delivery. As we all know, the appropriate sound quality is essential to any recording, probably even moreso with an orchestral effort. Thankfully, the talented team behind this entry crafted this one with care and it shows.
In summary, while this soundtrack finally offers me an opportunity to give out an "A" grade, it more importantly signifies a rich addition to the musical legacy of the "Superman" movies. It's never easy to follow a living legend in any creative endeavor, but with "Superman Returns", Ottman has done so at a very high level.
Final Score: A return to bold, orchestral magic from yesteryear, John Ottman updates Superman with a score worthy of his predecessors.
