Laurence Rosenthal

I've always thought that Steven Spielberg wouldn't be where he is if it weren't for the musical gifts of Mr. John Williams. The same story for George Lucas. Alfred Hitchcock might only be remembered today in a film class discussion on camera technique if not for the musical prowess of Bernard Herrmann.

Watching Clash of the Titans recently, I realized the main reason why that movie has always stuck with me since childhood has less to do with Ray Harryhausen's work (which is one of a kind) or the cartoonish story that pre-teen kids love - but more to do with the score written by Laurence Rosenthal. As a side note, John Williams was asked to do the score originally - but couldn't due to obligations elsewhere and recommended Mr. Rosenthal as a competent composer for the job. His score creates the mood, punches up the drama and stimulates the action. Try watching a few minutes of the movie without sound: it's shot like a bad TV show, the acting is sub-standard and the story was thought up on a weekend over a few beers and a joint.

Yet I still watch this movie 30 years after its original theatrical run. I whip up some microwave popcorn, shut off the lights, switch on the TV and surround sound system and hit play on my SONY Blu-ray player. For me, Clash of the Titans is almost like watching a bad video for a great song. Enjoy!

PS if you can find the Clash of the Titans soundtrack 2-CD set or even download it from somewhere - do yourself a favor; get a copy and listen to it.