Atli Orvarsson continues to display a keen insight toward the pictures he scores and The Eagle is no exception. In this latest outing from the emerging composer, Atli utilized authentic instrumentation representative of the era to deliver a final product full of interesting, historically-inspired cues that guide The Eagle onward. That it doesn't necessarily soar is no fault of his; the execution of the film itself is to blame.

In this tale of redemption, Atli hones in on melodies that are a bit more subtle in nature. For instance, the motif representing the ninth legion is more introspective and intuitive, which effectively represents their fall and subsequent chance to right their wrongs. I particularly enjoyed the fact that there wasn't a brash fanfare developed for this facet of the story since this more delicate approach delivers more of an emotional impact. It also sparks the imagination to wonder about the adventures of the ninth legion at the so called "end of the world" and thus, I found it moving in this regard. But this is just the secondary theme.

The main theme of the score is equally in balance and aims for the emotional component with lead character in mind. Where the film fails to engage the viewer with the fallen commander's quest for redemption, the music steps in and does a far better job. Given the fact that I had very little rooting interest for Channing Tatum's character, it's pretty remarkable that the music was able to deliver any semblance of depth about him. In fact, if this movie is to live on in your imagination after you've departed the theater, the music will play a key part in that, more so than the performance of said actor.

Where The Eagle ultimately gains its identity, however, is through the Celtic inspirations of the score. I found myself immersed in the instruments and songs from the period which really gave me a sense of time and place about this saga. Any time a score can thrust you into the world in which it is meant for, than it's a definitive win by the composer. Given the fact that the director himself hails from a documentary filmmaking background, it's no surprise that the score is scaled to fit the film's authenticity, which arguably, is the best part about this feature. And speaking of the film...

It was difficult for me to come to grips with the missed opportunity that was The Eagle. The setup is brilliant cinema, inspired greatly by the premise of the 1954 novel. That the screenwriter and an exceptional director like Kevin Macdonald couldn't capitalize and bring out a necessary depth from the story does pain me on some level as a filmgoer. I did, however, enjoy the vistas, historical "feel", and the score, which is at odds with just how bare the overall end result was.

However, if you're just in this for the music, and have a penchant for unique listening experiences, than I think you'll enjoy Atli's take on The Eagle of the Ninth (sorry Hollywood, I like the full title better). The composer shows a unique range with this effort and it's an impressive display of versatility that is to be commended. The soundtrack release by Silva Screen presents an ideal length in which to enjoy the score (just shy of 50 mins.) and the music does indeed spin a journey of its own; you'll find yourself slipping into this world with ease. This is solid, sturdy entertainment, worthy of a trek into foreign lands.