Patrick Doyle returns closer to form with his score for HBO's, "As You Like It," a film directed by Kenneth Branaugh. 

 

"As You Like It" is yet another Shakespeare adaptation from Branaugh, only this time, its presented on the small screen in the form of an original HBO movie.  Longtime collaborators Doyle and Branaugh reunited for this project and the pairing typically makes for good results in both film and score.  Many of you are probably familiar with Doyle's past efforts in this vein with works such as "Henry V" and "Hamlet," both of which offered above average scores, and both providing excellent support for Branaugh's productions.

 

The soundtrack for "As You Like It" has been released at a near identical time to that of "The Last Legion," Doyle's other entry in the Summer of 2007.  While 'Legion' seemed to underwhelm and lack any emotional connection with the listener, "As You Like It" is a more accurate representation of Doyle's work.  Clearly to me, and this is just my opinion, Doyle probably had a better motivation with "As You Like It" due to the talent behind it. The score for this instance has far more depth than that of 'Legion,' and has more thought to it.

 

The music for "As You Like It" has a calming effect.  It's a score that offers affectionate melodies and feels as though its in no rush.  To that end, it's a timeless piece of work that is accommodating to listen to.  Given the story involved, there is a nicely developed fusion of Japanese influenced melodies that add a very nice texture to the score.  Balanced neatly between the sweet motifs, it gives the listener a firmly planted sense of where the story is taking place, which is always a nice thing to help a score relate to its movie.

 

As far as bold, dramatic statements -- this score doesn't offer any of that as compared to the likes of "Henry V". In its stead, there is music that is classical in nature and melodic in the right moments.   However, the score's unassuming nature is what probably keeps it from truly standing out as a memorable body of work.  It's nice, it's enjoyable and calm, but these are the very reasons why some of you may not find "As You Like It" to be a score that offers great replay value.

 

In any event, it's pleasing to hear Patrick Doyle right the ship with this effort.  It's an above average effort that is in tune with his style, so that alone should prompt satisfaction with his fans.  Personally, I enjoyed it for what it was and that is a score for a well made television movie.  It's not a soundtrack that will become a hallmark, but it is one that serviceable and appealing, and that's good enough to get the job done here.