Simply put, Bernstein was one of the absolute best. With the passing of Jerry Goldsmith within the last month, the movies have lost two of their most prolific composers of the last 50 years. Bernstein’s scores, especially his major ones from the late 50s, are unforgettable. The music in The Man With the Golden Arm is as integral to the story as every line in the script. With his memorable work on different films from various genres like Sweet Smell of Success, The Ten Commandments and The Magnificent Seven, it could be argued that Bernstein’s scores are as, if not more, important to the tone and flow than any other single element of the filmmaking. In the case of The Magnificent Seven, more people probably recognize the movie’s famous theme than actually have ever seen the film itself.
Bernstein received 13 Oscar nominations through his career, but his only win came for the 1967 comedy Thoroughly Modern Millie. His most recent nomination came two years ago for his fantastic score to Todd Haynes’ brilliant Far From Heaven. After more than 50 years and well over 200 credits, Far From Heaven proved that Bernstein’s talents at the end of his career had not diminished whatsoever.
Music and sound are often the most overlooked element of movies, but good sound editing and a great score arguably have more control over an audiences emotions than any single shot or scene. Bernstein contributed to the musical legacy of the movies to a degree matched by few others, and he will be missed.
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