For a night of suspense, Manchester’s orchestra have formed an evening of Thrills, Spills and Chills to promote an appreciation for the music beside the movie. For the diverse audience at The Bridgewater Hall, The Hallé have curated a collection of the most memorable songs from the action genre. The tracks that promoted played a large role within the film they are featured and support the classics with an inseparable element.
Where would Jaws, Bond or Psycho be without their infamous soundtracks? Similarly, even without the visuals of Spielberg or Brad Bird, these songs remain permanently connected to the director’s vision. The music can define a film, and particular composers have a knack for helping shape the drama onscreen. The influential and immediately recognisable songs by John Williams play throughout the evening and invoke memories that appear to absorb its audiences through its dramatic flair. With music that stand firmly on its own, it is a joy to watch the powerful Hallé orchestra play through a collection of iconic tracks.
Conducted by Stephen Bell and presented by Petroc Trelawny, these timeless tracks are mixed amidst lesser known, atmospheric pieces that capture the spirit of the genres immediacy and movement. The Academy Award winning score from Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight and Waltz No. 2 from Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut offer quieter moments that reflect a simplicity often forgotten within the action/drama genre. These quieter sensibilities are also prefaced with curious facts surrounding the director/composer relationship. Considering the popularity of the films and directors included, it is shocking how little acknowledgement is given to celebrating the moments that tie their features together.
Regardless of the tumultuous or heavenly relationship between the artist and musician, the Hallé collection carries a similar tone. It is an assortment that bleeds nostalgia, from its fractured Hitchcockian melodies, to jaunty contemporary takes such as the Incredibles. Despite following the themes of the past, this show offers music from 1960s up until 2004, with a fantastic assortment of runaway hits. Fortunately, The Hallé is always here to highlight the real magic that accompanies the big screen and a collection of future concerts are available to view on their website.