There is not one definitive factor that makes a movie great; instead it is a combination of a load of different elements. Now, you need to understand that there are certain aspects of a film that really improve the overall picture. For instance, the score or soundtrack can play a hugely important role in the makeup of a movie, and the way we interpret it them. That’s one of the reasons why soundtracks are so important.
Think of the iconic movie scores over the years – Indiana Jones, The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, Back to the Future. All of these have themes and soundtracks that we find instantly recognizable, along with composer whose names we can reel off. One of the best songwriters in the movie industry is Italian Giorgio Moroder. You may not know his name, but you’ll certainly know his work – here are some of his best tunes.
Take My Breath Away – Berlin (Top Gun)
The work that Moroder has claimed he is most proud of is this hit single for the movie Top Gun. Berlin recorded the song, written by Moroder and Tom Whitlock. The song is an epic ballad that was a centerpiece of the movie, and remains one of the most recognizable tunes in movie history. The song earned Moroder an Academy Award, as well as the Golden Globe Award, in 1986. It has been cited as one of the best movie songs of all time and is considered to be the defining work of Moroder’s career.
Flashdance… What a Feeling – Irene Cara (Flashdance)
Another song that won Giorgio an Academy Award was the hit 1983 song Flashdance… What a Feeling, from the hit musical movie of the same name. The song was the opening track on the Flashdance Soundtrack (Moroder wrote another song for the album too). It is an instantly recognizable ‘80s classic, and one that also defines the range and ability Moroder has as a songwriter. After decades spent making rock, this song came bang in the middle of his transition to dance and electro.
Midnight Express – Giorgio Moroder (Midnight Express)
The soundtrack to the 1978 prison drama Midnight Express was composed entirely by Moroder. It was released by Casablanca Records and was Moroder’s first movie soundtrack composition. It paved the way for a successful career for him in the world of movie scores. He also scooped his first of three Academy Awards, when he won the 1979 Oscar for Best Original Score. The soundtrack is a pivotal part of what helps make the film great, and Moroder music was met with widespread critical acclaim.
So, as you can see, Giorgio Moroder has done a lot of work that you probably know. This is in addition to carving out a fairly success rock and synth-pop career as well! As a three-time Oscar winner, he is considered one of the best and most influential songwriters and composers in the world. He also had a hand in composing the soundtracks for Scarface, and The Neverending Story. These are just a selection of the great works from the hugely talented Italian, and he continues to make music even today.
