Maleficent – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
About this album
Where they were
By the time James Newton Howard released the 'Maleficent' soundtrack in 2014, he was already an established composer known for his work on films like 'The Hunger Games' and 'Batman Begins.' This album marked a collaboration with Disney, showcasing his ability to create emotionally resonant scores that elevate cinematic storytelling, while also reflecting a shift towards more fantastical narratives in his filmography.
Why it matters
The 'Maleficent' soundtrack played a significant role in the film's success, contributing to its global box office gross exceeding $758 million. Howard's score received critical acclaim, earning nominations for awards such as the Hollywood Music in Media Awards, highlighting its impact within the film scoring community and its contribution to reimagining classic stories in modern cinema.
Essential tracks
- "Maleficent Suite" — This opening track encapsulates the thematic essence of the entire score, weaving motifs that represent both Maleficent's power and vulnerability.
- "Once Upon a Dream" — 'Once Upon a Dream' serves as a hauntingly beautiful reinterpretation of the classic song, infusing it with a sense of nostalgia and foreboding that aligns perfectly with the film's themes.
- "The Christening" — This pivotal moment in the score captures the tension and drama surrounding Aurora's curse, showcasing Howard's skill in building emotion through orchestration.
- "Maleficent Is Captured" — This track exemplifies Howard's ability to blend urgency with orchestral depth, reflecting Maleficent's struggle and determination during a critical narrative point.
Release Date
May 26, 2014
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Maleficent Suite 6:38
- 2 Welcome to the Moors 1:05
- 3 Maleficent Flies 4:39
- 4 Battle of the Moors 4:58
- 5 Three Peasant Women 1:04
- 6 Go Away 2:26
- 7 Aurora and the Fawn 2:28
- 8 The Christening 5:30
- 9 Prince Phillip 2:29
- 10 The Spindle’s Power 4:35
- 11 You Could Live Here Now 2:26
- 12 Path of Destruction 1:47
- 13 Aurora in Faerieland 4:41
- 14 The Wall Defends Itself 1:06
- 15 The Curse Won’t Reverse 1:21
- 16 Are You Maleficent? 2:10
- 17 The Army Dances 1:28
- 18 Phillip’s Kiss 2:20
- 19 The Iron Gauntlet 1:35
- 20 True Love’s Kiss 2:33
- 21 Maleficent Is Captured 7:42
- 22 The Queen of Faerieland 3:25
- 23 Once Upon a Dream 3:20
