Brainstorm

Well, this seems to be quite popular with many Horner fans and I can see why, it's a very effective score. It divides its rather brief running time between spooky and horrific moments and more tender moments mainly played on the piano. The horror parts are indeed very effective, much like those in Close Encounters although perhaps not as amazingly terrifying. They are not easy listening it has to be said, but as with Close Encounter's that's quite the point. There area also some acheingly beautiful choral moments especially in the opening and end titles, they are slightly spooky and Alan Silvestri's Abyss score is fairly reminiscent of them, but in both cases are used to excellent effect. The softer parts such as Michael's Gift to Karen are delightful. This is not a strongly thematic score and I would have difficulty in humming any themes as such, although the piano parts are very melodic if not having a great theme. There are moments to build tension in a manner that has been used most notable in Apollo 13, Star Trek II and Krull. A passionate, loud climax is reached in Final Playback that comes close to the Katra ritual from Star Trek III. Overall a good score, that, despite not always being easy to listen to, is excellent none the less.