Casper

Review by Thomas Glorieux:

James Horner had a busy year, but a successful one. Both Apollo 13 and Braveheart were nominated for Academy Awards but failed to win (how unbelievable it may sound), Balto proved once again James Horner's ability to write great animated soundtracks and Casper demonstrates the same thing, this time though for a special effects feast with ghosts in the biggest roles. There are so many composers who would fail to create the atmosphere James Horner successfully integrates it in the mellow story of a ghost that just wants somebody to talk with. It has to be entertaining, romantic, friendly but at the same time scary, almost nostalgic and James Horner delivered this in 70 minutes of pure entertainment. Casper undoubtedly belongs in any Horner collection no matter what you think of the composer in charge, because I believe fantasy scores don't receive a better sound then this.

The tracks aren't in order but this is not a complaint, because every track is a real treat. The one track is just a bit better then the other. The first highlight is 'First Haunting / The Swordfight' which includes some excellent usage of sound effects. First of all don't be scared by the begin offensive of the ghosts because it really jumps in front on you without a warning, it then changes to a rousing adventure piece which everybody will enjoy (even though it rips off another well swashbuckling piece of a famed Golden Age composer). 'March of the Exorcists' is great fun, the same melody but performed more stronger and always a bit different. But if the adventure pieces are good, so are the other moments of the soundtrack. The softer moments brought to life through the piano and Horner's usual children's choir bring more emotion to the fairytale. Especially 'Casper's Lullaby' demonstrates this in full power. And at the end you have to give Horner credit for using every sound and instrument he has at his disposal. He creates this fun sound that never bores and basically proves James Horner's ability to bring that something extra to the screen and CD.

Another great highlight is the magical 'One Last Wish' with an enchanting melody at the forefront. The two songs that are mixed before the suite arrives aren't bad, they insert an extra flair to Horner's score and both are heard during the end of the movie. So love the movie means love the songs, especially 'Casper the Friendly Ghost' is a great cue in my book. And finally 'The Uncles Swing / End Credits' concludes with the main themes of the score. This is really a soundtrack that despite it's long length remains good to listen to. It doesn't bore and every material brings something that lightens the mood. There were even good tracks missing on the CD, like the begin when Casper makes his first appearance and the fake reunion with James and his deceased wife but are sadly not included. Personally I find Casper a pure original listen, it has used moments but most of the tracks bring something you've haven't heard before. James Horner fans should be thrilled with this score I tell you that in person. It sounds adventurous but nostalgic and light, it's very comical almost but the movie is no different in that part. Maybe Braveheart and Apollo 13 got the nominations (which they fully deserved by the way), but both Balto and Casper belong as fine recommendations for any score fan wanting to grade up the Horner battery.

\도도1/2/

Tracks

Single Disc

1. No Sign Of Ghosts (7.29)

2. Carrigan & Dibs (2.38)

3. Strangers In The House (2.34)

4. First Haunting / The Swordfight (4.58) Excellent Track

5. March Of The Exorcists (2.42) Excellent Track

6. The Lighthouse / Casper & Kat (4.53)

7. Casper Makes Breakfast (3.39)

8. Fond Memories (3.37)

9. Dying To Be A Ghost (7.00) Excellent Track

10. Casper's Lullaby (5.37) Excellent Track

11. Descent To Lazarus (10.17)

12. One Last Wish (4.16) Excellent Track

13. Remember Me This Way: Jordan Hill (4.26)

14. Casper The Friendly Ghost: Little Richard (2.08)

15. The Uncles Swing / End Credits (6.20) Excellent Track

Total Length: 73.16

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=== Link to Composer Site: James Horner ===