Hazel Cills, a music journalist and critic known for her insights on film scores and songs, joins the discussion on Oscar nominations. They dive into the nominees for Original Score and Song, analyzing the emotional weight and narrative alignment of various compositions. The conversation highlights snubs and overlooked soundtracks, including a critical look at Elton John's 'Never Too Late' alongside emerging nominees. Expect a blend of predictions, critiques, and a deep appreciation for the art of movie music as they navigate this year's awards landscape.
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Hilton's Envy
Robin Hilton envies Hazel Cills' movie-watching lifestyle.
Hazel Cills has structured her life to see as many films as possible.
insights INSIGHT
The Brutalist Score
The Brutalist features a sprawling score by Daniel Bloomberg, matching its epic storyline.
Bloomberg's score blends mechanical and organic sounds, reflecting the film's themes of architecture and madness.
insights INSIGHT
The Wild Robot Score
Chris Bowers, known for Bridgerton and King Richard, composed The Wild Robot's playful, futuristic score.
While effective, the score is considered a bit too traditional for an Oscar nomination.
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When robot Roz opens her eyes for the first time, she finds herself alone on a remote, wild island after a shipwreck. With no idea how she got there or what her purpose is, Roz must adapt to her harsh surroundings by learning from the island's hostile animal inhabitants. She befriends the animals, including an orphaned gosling named Brightbill, and becomes a part of the island community. However, her mysterious past eventually comes back to haunt her, forcing her to make difficult choices that impact her new family and the island itself. The novel explores themes of technology vs. nature, community, and personal responsibility[2][3][5].
The Shining
Stephen King
In 'The Shining,' Stephen King tells the story of the Torrance family—Jack, Wendy, and their young son Danny—who move into the isolated Overlook Hotel in the Colorado Rockies. Jack, a recovering alcoholic and aspiring writer, takes the job as the hotel's winter caretaker to overcome his personal demons and reconnect with his family. However, the hotel, with its dark and violent history, exerts a malevolent influence on Jack, exploiting his weaknesses and threatening his family. Danny, who possesses psychic abilities known as 'the shining,' is particularly vulnerable to the hotel's supernatural forces. As the winter isolates them, the family faces terrifying events that culminate in a tragic confrontation with the hotel's evil presence[2][3][5].
With Oscar season here, we review the nominees for Original Song and Original Score, prognosticate who will win the statues on March 2, and look at the Academy's biggest snubs.
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Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org
Hear the songs in the All Songs Considered playlists in Apple Music and Spotify.