Top 10 Maurice Jarre Movies for an Unforgettable Film Experience
Maurice Jarre was a French composer known for his iconic film scores that left a lasting impact on the film industry. He composed music for over 150 films throughout his career, earning three Academy Awards and a Golden Globe Award. His music was not only a complement to the films but also a character within them. In this article, we will explore the top 10 Maurice Jarre movies that showcase his musical genius.
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
The epic historical drama, Lawrence of Arabia, is one of the most iconic films in cinema history. It tells the story of T. E. Lawrence, a British army officer who played a key role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I. The film’s sweeping score by Maurice Jarre captures the grandeur of the desert landscapes and the emotional depth of Lawrence’s character.
Doctor Zhivago (1965)
Doctor Zhivago, based on the novel by Boris Pasternak, is a romantic epic set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution. The film’s score by Maurice Jarre features the haunting melody of “Lara’s Theme,” which has become one of the most recognizable pieces of film music ever written.
A Passage to India (1984)
A Passage to India, directed by David Lean, is an adaptation of the novel by E. M. Forster. The film explores the complex relationships between the British colonizers and the Indian people during the early 20th century. Maurice Jarre’s score captures the tension and emotional complexity of the story.
The Tin Drum (1979)
The Tin Drum, directed by Volker Schlöndorff, is a German film based on the novel by Günter Grass. It tells the story of a young boy named Oskar who refuses to grow up in protest against the horrors of World War II. Maurice Jarre’s score for the film is a haunting and surreal accompaniment to the story.
Ghost (1990)
Ghost, directed by Jerry Zucker, is a romantic fantasy film starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. The film’s score by Maurice Jarre features the hit song “Unchained Melody” performed by The Righteous Brothers.
Witness (1985)
Witness, directed by Peter Weir, is a crime thriller starring Harrison Ford and Kelly McGillis. The film’s score by Maurice Jarre features a hauntingly beautiful theme that captures the tension and drama of the story.
The Year of Living Dangerously (1982)
The Year of Living Dangerously, directed by Peter Weir, is a political thriller set in Indonesia during the overthrow of President Sukarno in 1965. The film’s score by Maurice Jarre captures the exotic and dangerous atmosphere of the story.
The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
The Man Who Would Be King, directed by John Huston, is an adventure film based on the novella by Rudyard Kipling. The film stars Sean Connery and Michael Caine as two British soldiers who set out to become kings of Kafiristan. The film’s score by Maurice Jarre captures the excitement and danger of their journey.
The Message (1977)
The Message, directed by Moustapha Akkad, is a historical epic about the life of the Prophet Muhammad. The film’s score by Maurice Jarre captures the spiritual and emotional depth of the story.
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Dead Poets Society, directed by Peter Weir, is a drama about an English teacher who inspires his students to seize the day and pursue their passions. The film’s score by Maurice Jarre captures the spirit of youth and the power of inspiration.
Key Takeaways
Maurice Jarre was a legendary composer who left a lasting impact on the film industry. His music has become an integral part of the films he scored, capturing the emotional depth and grandeur of the stories. The top 10 Maurice Jarre movies listed in this article are a testament to his musical genius and the impact his music has had on cinema.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in the film industry, it’s important to have a deep understanding of the role that music plays in film. Consider taking the NYU x Billboard | Music Industry Essentials online course and certificate program to gain a comprehensive understanding of the music industry and its role in film and television.
