Best Years Of Our Lives, The (1946)

Composer(s):
Hugo Friedhofer

Released in:
1946

Reviews

Best Soundtrack Ever
by Thomas Kiefner (January 2, 2002)
From the powerful opening theme, unlike anything the cinema screen had ever heard before, Hugo Friedhofer created a score which in my opinion was the finest ever done. Hollywood was aware of the talents Hugo had as an orchestrator, but until this film his only other score was "The Adventures of Marco Polo." From what I have read about the making of the film, director Wyler wanted Alfred Newman to do the score. However, Newman persisted in his request that Friedhofer, not himself, be permitted to do it. As the score unfolds, you hear the incredible ability to blend theme upon theme as you, the listener, are caught up in the incredible emotion. Each track was carefully selected, unlike many other scores. Nothing you hear will be overpowering, yet each track can stand on its own merit. If you have seen the film, then return and listen to the soundtrack, which absolutely amazes at the perfection of the music. The track entitled "Homer Goes Upstairs", a scene in which Homer reveals to Wilma what is involved when he goes to sleep at night, is the perfect piece of music written for any scene ever filmed. Friedhofer, in addition, wrote a piece titled "Exit Music." It was to be played as people left the theater. A completely new theme similiar in nature, joyous and up beat. The idea was soon dropped a few performances. The track remains and is the final selection. Here is a film from a 1946 winner of several Oscars, including the film score, and yet only one recording of this score has been done. Remastered twice, it's currently available on Label X. I purchased my copy thru Intrada records, a fine source for soundtracks. I urge my fellow collectors to add this to their collection. You will not be disappointed. Your treat will be an incredible piece of American music. I also hope that someday some recording company will take on the task of recording this fine work again. Hint to Marco Polo or Silva records. For the present I am very grateful for the copy I have.

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suggested by:
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