The Mask

The 90's was not only a good time for composer Randy Edelman, but for actor Jim Carrey as well. Both people had numerous projects under their name, and luckily were able to pick up even more projects as a result. In 1994, both names appeared in the credits of a surprise hit film, The Mask. Based off of a comic series, The Mask soon became a sort of icon, especially at the box office. It also helped propel Jim Carrey to major stardom. For Randy Edelman, The Mask became one of his most well known projects, along with Braveheart.

Orchestrally, The Mask is alot of fun and a great effort from Edelman. The main theme, spread out in a number of guises throughout the score, is sweeping and mysterious at the same time. For the character of Tina, Edelman introduces a staggering jazz motif combined with some softer material. As the score progresses, you can easily see that Edelman had alot of fun with Jim Carrey's material in the film. Be it the over-the-top french sound of 'Tango in the Park' or the Danny Elfman nightmare in 'The Carnival', the music stays fresh and fun throughout. In the last half of the album, Edelman also introduces a theme for the main villain of the film, as well as some darker motifs thrown into the mix.

Like Kindergarten Cop, The Mask can be considered one of the highlights of Randy Edelman's career. At times, the orchestral work is surprisingly bombastic for a composer who is usually much quieter. There are a few issues, though. Aside from the easily recognizable main theme and the villain's motif, there is not really any strong thematic material to hold the score together. Also, Edelman does stoop to using some bland comedic pieces that only are meant for filling in the gaps. Altogether though, it's a fun score to listen to, but doesn't really go beyond that.