My favorite passage - not played on this audio, is the softer version of the main theme, with emphasis on strings and harp, when Toomer is paddling Benny on their fishing trip. Bernstein has a remarkable ability to take his theme - even one as filled with verve as the Great Escape - and transform it via softening, often modulating into a minor as he did during the scene when the escaped Aussie prisoner is bicycling near the train depot. The man was a genius, pure and simple.
Such strength, versatility, and sensitivity that sets a pattern for a wonderful motion picture with the same qualities - this is one of the very best soundtracks ever made - something that could be expected from Mr. Bernstein. It is one of my very favorite themes - this particular one covers the Meechum family - save one departing Beaufort, SC at the very end of the film. It still brings tears to my eyes. I hope that one of the major archives producers will see fit to have it released on CD.
I have looked all over for this as well though I understand that it's never been recorded for public release. I wonder how this became available. I love it. Great movie and music.
Film Score Monthly recently released the soundtrack.
acceptthis01 3 months ago
I really liked that theme! I know Bernstein was responsible for creating the theme for Animal House, another good film. Yes, I'm saying FILM!
jiveturkey25 5 months ago
My favorite passage - not played on this audio, is the softer version of the main theme, with emphasis on strings and harp, when Toomer is paddling Benny on their fishing trip. Bernstein has a remarkable ability to take his theme - even one as filled with verve as the Great Escape - and transform it via softening, often modulating into a minor as he did during the scene when the escaped Aussie prisoner is bicycling near the train depot. The man was a genius, pure and simple.
truculantmuse 8 months ago 3
Such strength, versatility, and sensitivity that sets a pattern for a wonderful motion picture with the same qualities - this is one of the very best soundtracks ever made - something that could be expected from Mr. Bernstein. It is one of my very favorite themes - this particular one covers the Meechum family - save one departing Beaufort, SC at the very end of the film. It still brings tears to my eyes. I hope that one of the major archives producers will see fit to have it released on CD.
Llrnccrp 8 months ago
Fan of Elmer Bernstein, could someone find the theme song to Hawaii with Julie Andrews?? It's beautiful, one of my favorites...
karburg7149 1 year ago
I have looked all over for this as well though I understand that it's never been recorded for public release. I wonder how this became available. I love it. Great movie and music.
hoary37 1 year ago
I love this theme. I wish they would put it out on a CD. Thanks for posting it.
DaveHerron21 1 year ago
OMG - Thank you so much for this posting! I have been looking all over the universe for this score/soundtrack!!
Margie2378 1 year ago
Thanks for posting. I liked the movie, and I like the soundtrack.
DPOSFS 2 years ago