The Best Movie Scores Of All Time, Ranked

Harper Brooks
Updated October 28, 2024 556.2K views 228 items

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277.8K votes
26.1K voters
88 reranks
Latest additions: Poor Things
Most divisive: Conan the Barbarian
Over 26.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Film Scores Ever Made

Creating a list of the best film scores of all time is no small feat, but it's a journey worth embarking on for any cinephile or music lover. This crowdranked compilation serves not just as a tribute to the masters of cinematic music but also as a community-driven effort where filmgoers intimately share their favorite scores. The list evaluates each score based on its emotional impact, ingenuity, and how well the music complements its movie. With thousands of fans voting, the ranking becomes a collective voice celebrating the art of film scoring.

Take, for instance, the awe-inspiring compositions of John Williams. His score for Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back is universally acclaimed for its intricate orchestration and capacity to evoke deep emotions. Howard Shore's epic themes in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring are another standout, thanks to their comprehensive leitmotifs that enhance every narrative beat. Not far behind is Hans Zimmer's pulsating score for Interstellar, which uses the haunting sounds of a church organ to transport audiences beyond the stars. Equally enchanting is James Horner’s heartfelt music for Titanic, which mixes sweeping orchestral themes with haunting solos to majestic effect. Klaus Badelt’s collaboration with Hans Zimmer for Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl brings thunderous drums and dynamic strings that make the high seas adventure unforgettable. The sophisticated yet eerie compositions of Ennio Morricone for The Good, The Bad & The Ugly is a textbook example of using music to define a film’s atmosphere.

The essence of this crowdranked list is its invitation for every reader to make their voice heard. Passionate about motion picture scores? Think a certain iconic theme deserves a top spot? Cast your vote and contribute to this ranking of the greatest movie music ever created. Voting ensures the list remains vibrant and reflective of current opinions, capturing the magic these scores bring to the world of film. Dive in, let the music speak, and don’t miss the chance to rank the best film scores of all time.