Customer Reviews

The Shipping News

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I saw the movie, and was stunned by the soundtrack, particularly by the fact that it had five songs by Newfoundland band Great Big Sea in it (Generally played in the cafe). I was extremely disappointed, therefore, to discover that none of these songs made it onto the CD, as they are both fabulous songs, and songs that were a crucial part of the overall mood of the movie.

Even if you haven't seen the movie, you will love this music--Celtic influences, rhythmic drumming, mood invoking -- consistently delivers.

I had it on as background music when I had company and everyone noticed and was raving about it. They hadn't heard of the movie but sure loved this CD.

Some heavy weights on the casting line up of "The Shipping News"...leading the pack is Kevin Spacey(Quoyle), Judi Dench(Agnis Hamm), Cate Blanchett(Petal Bear), Julianne Moore(Wavey), Pete Postlethwaite(Tert Card) and Scott Glenn(Jack Buggit), who happens to be one of my favorite actors from "Backdraft", "Silverado" and "The Right Stuff"...filmed in
Newfoundland and based on the E. Annie Proulx novel(Pulitzer Prize winner) and the gifted director Lasse Hallstrom("The Cider House" and "Chocolat"), both wonderful films...even with this cast and director, the film falls short of what we've come to expect from all concerned in the past.

However, the music is first class...as Christopher Young captures the landscape and the lives of the people on the island...each cue sets the tone and mood for every scene...Young has come of age, belongs to one of Hollywood's busiest composers.

A few stand outs come to mind ~ "ALWYN SPIRES", almost a lullaby with solo guitar and counterpoints from the string section..."SAIL ON", lonely guitar strings open with Celtic
sounding flutes answering the string sections, beautiful colors of each theme transpire blending percussion creeps into the melodic symphony, giving you the satisfaction of life starting over.

Much credit to Milan Entertainment, The Philharmonia Orchestra, Allan Wilson(conductor) and our composer Christopher Young...the opening track "SHIPPING NEWS", sets the stage for a compelling drama and the score adds another character to the cast of
players...once again brilliant arrangements, orchestration and performance from this haunting cue...stays with you for days, gotta love it!

Total Time: 46:12 on 16 Tracks ~ Milan 35983 ~ (2002)

This is the best instrumental soundtrack since Braveheart. It's a powerful fusion of folk and orchestral styles. I have to admit, I'm not a music expert, but I love this CD.

Unlike many soundtracks, every track on this CD stands alone as a great piece to listen to. If you saw the movie, each track evokes memories but if you didn't, you can enjoy this CD on its own merits. If you like traditional Celtic styled music, this is the CD for you - I played it for an Irish friend who hadn't seen the movie and she fell in love with it and bought her own copy.

Contrary to some reviews that I have read, having now seen it twice, I think The Shipping News is an excellent film. It tells a good tale, is extremely well acted, and is very atmospheric. One of the great things about the film is the music. It features the Uilean Pipes, Penny Whistle, Hurdy Gurdy, Fiddle, Harps, as well as Guitars, and creates a haunting backdrop to the film. You could almost imagine you were there in Newfoundland. I like this soundtrack CD - very much - what more can I say?

As awesome and haunting as the movie. A must if you loved the movie. A must if you love excellent, moving musical scores from films.

While I enjoyed the movie "The Shipping News" for its stark beauty and engrossing personal portrayals, the soundtrack haunted me most. The beautiful celtic influence makes this music sink into your very heart. You will find it coming to mind over and over. Worth every penny.

Christopher Young is an amazing composer and performer. If I had not seen the movie, I would never have heard his compositions. This album would be loved by anyone who is moved by Celtic music. Beautiful!

Very soothing music -- have put this CD on and put it on repeat to have it play over and over again.