Customer Reviews

The Messenger - The Story of Joan of Arc - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

An absolutely engaging CD that truly compliments the stunning film visuals. It's quite unfortunate that many may not even try the CD out given the multitude of negative reviews for the actual film. Let's just hope that's not the case. The soundtrack is a real gem.

Eric Serra's soundtrack stands accused of being a typically dissonant 20th century piece of orchestral music. The accusation is partially correct. While I would never be one to suggest that the style isn't "real music," I have to admit it's not my bag. However, this soundtrack does have it's moments. For example, the opening theme ("Talk to Him"), variations of which are heard elsewhere on the CD, is enjoyable. There are other excerpts that I also consider quite good. I will say that Serra did his principal job well in that his compositions do reflect the mystery, drama, and tragedy of Joan of Arc's life--in that sense, in fact, the soundtrack is better than the movie itself, which I thought was a poor, overwrought relation to the recent television version starring Leelee Sobieski. The only part of the CD that I absolutely can't stand is the closing song "My Heart Calling"--which really sounds more like it belongs to a James Bond movie than a movie like this. All in all, I definitely don't regret buying this soundtrack although I would hardly consider it a favorite among my collection (if you want a truly wonderful score to a medieval era movie, get Patrick Doyle's "Henry V").

This music was the best I have heard in a long time for a soundtrack. It's very dramatic. The movie does something that composers have not done in a while. Use the soundtrack as part of the movie to get it more dramatic touch. The bells the runing of wolfs its all the soundtrack not sound effects. Watch the movie first then you'll be able to aprechiate this soundtrack. The song at the end is very deep and touching

Eris Serra does it again! I admit that this album is not for everyone, but it is a must for soundtrack enthusiasts. If you liked 5th element's soundtrack you'll love this. Good job Mr. Serra! You are up there with Hans Zimmers. ;)

Serra is majestic. Hands down great soundtrack. With a perfect mix of instruments, chorus, and techno sound, "The Messenger" score is perfect. The tracks are evenly cut, and the chorus pieces are great. The best track hands down is "The Messenger of God" which combines perfect harp and symphony instrumentation. The music is so noteworthy that it takes away the whole "find the dauphin" scene. Truly excellent by far, and a stand alone score. If it even wasn't a score, I'd buy it.

It fits the movie perfectly! The movie was great and the score only made it greater! Eric Serra combines awesome choir, orchestra, and synths to charge this wonderful soundtrack. "Angelus In Medio Ignis" shines as one of the best film score pieces I have ever heard in terms of not only quality and power but in terms of fitting the movie scene (in this case, when Joan is being burned). This movie and score made an impression on me that no film or score have done in a long time! Bravo, Mr. Serra!

It stays original all the way through. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys something other than 'the norm' riding around in their cd tray. When it comes to this 'real music' that's talked about in the following reviews, I figure that's all up to ones own opinion. I like it. So there.

I think this CD is great. When one have seen and "felt" the movie, then the music on the CD can be easly understandable and appreciated. Just close your eyes and dive into the history, into the dark era of that time... Think of Joan... And you'll see that the music and CD are great! As is the movie.

Eric Serra is a wonderful composer. He mixes orcestrated music with a techno style beats and rythems through out the entire score. Some are haunting some are sad, all are perfect for the film.

It shares many contemporary elements and is very original and entertaining listen. If you are like me and appreciate real music, you will enjoy this album.