#NowPlaying: The top 10 most epic movie soundtracks of all time (... seriously!)

#TalkNerdyToMeLover's Marcela De Vivo 

Any movie can be good, but there are certain things that set others apart from the rest. Sometimes, it’s the actors, and for others, it’s the cinematography, but most often, it’s the music. The music of a movie carries us from the beginning to end; it rides the emotions of the actors and draws us into the plot. 

Some movie soundtracks are so amazing, we feel like we can fight battles just listening to them. Everyone has their favorites, but read through this list and you might discover a new epic tie for first place ... 

1) Titanic—James Horner

With the deep emotion of this movie, it is only right that it be accompanied by an equally emotional soundtrack. James Horner does just that, and more. He pairs each incredible scene with a song that fits the moment just right.

The Titanic would not be the same without the songs that we all know and love backing it.

2) Gladiator—Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard

Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard add another layer of complex emotion to Gladiator. Zimmer makes the music fresh and creative. Gerrard works on the lighter and softer pieces with her own special touch. Together, they create a dramatic masterpiece.

3) Pirates of the Caribbean-The Curse of the Black Pearl—Klaus Badelt

One of the most beloved adventure films of all-time, Klaus Badelt captures the mischievousness of Jack Sparrow, the love of Will and Elizabeth and the danger of the pirates-- all in one epic soundtrack.

Badelt ignites the adventurer in all of us with his incredible music.

4) Jurassic Park—John Williams

Although not all share a love for this very particular set of movies, most can agree that John Williams goes above and beyond his musical talent for these particular soundtracks. They add so much to each character, and make the movies a joy to watch.

5) Braveheart—James Horner

After watching Braveheart, most men can safely say they want to be William Wallace. They love his heroism and his manliness, all accented, of course, by another incredible soundtrack from James Horner. 

Horner includes the London Symphony Orchestra, along with the Choristers of Westminster Abbey, to their full potential in this soundtrack.

6) The Dark Knight—Hans Zimmer

The Dark Knight is a battle of good and evil. It keeps everyone watching on the edge of their seats. This kind of emotion would not be possible without the songs that Hans Zimmer created perfectly for the movie.

7) The Terminator—Brad Fiedel

Sure, we can all agree that some parts of the movie are cheesy, and what belongs in the ‘80’s should stay in the ‘80’s; however, The Terminator would not be the same without the soundtrack. Epic and perfect for the stunts of Arnold Schwarzenegger, this is a soundtrack to remember.

8) Jaws—John Williams

A fin pops out of the ocean, blood spurts through the water, people scream! It can only be Jaws, a one-of-a-kind movie that was made even better by John Williams.

This soundtrack causes people to watch to watch the movie again and again, just for the thrill of that shark fin.

9) The Lord of the Rings—Howard Shore

Perhaps one of the most well-known movie soundtracks can be found right here by Howard Shore. Not only is it emotionally moving and intense, it is perfectly suited to every single scene of the movie.

10) Star Wars—John Williams

Of course, this classic had to make it on the list. No epic soundtrack compilation would be complete without it! Light sabers and far-away galaxies? What more could you want?

Each of these soundtracks sparks some sort of emotion in everyone, each time the music is played or the movie is watched. No great move would ever be complete without an epic soundtrack.

#nerdsunite

Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer, mother and music enthusiast who can often be found listening to the greatest movie soundtracks of all-time. Music plays a big part in her life; she is always finding new musicians and artists. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook.