

Mark Kermode – The Stories of Movie Music
Sep 23, 2025
Mark Kermode, a renowned film critic and co-author of the book Surround Sound, dives deep into the world of movie music. He shares how soundtracks can elevate storytelling, using examples from films like Angel Heart and Under the Skin. Kermode offers unique insights on live scoring techniques and the transformative power of acoustics in film. His approach encourages listeners to appreciate film music not just as background noise, but as a vital part of cinematic experience, illuminating how scores shape our emotional journey.
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Childhood Soundtrack Revelation
- Mark Kermode discovered film soundtracks as storytelling via a Dougal and the Blue Cat LP his mother bought him as a child.
- He initially thought soundtrack albums contained the whole film and learned music alone can narrate story and emotion.
Soundtracks As Portable Films
- Soundtrack albums let audiences 'own' and relive films before home video existed.
- They often stand alone as independent works of art with cover art and sequencing that recreate the film's world.
Trust The Lead And Watch Hands
- Trust the lead musician and watch each other's left hands when improvising to film.
- Listen to the screen and fellow players rather than rely solely on prewritten parts.