14. American Beauty - Thomas Newman
DreamWorksAmerican Beauty was one of the best films of 1999, with a tour de force performance from Kevin Spacey and an endlessly compelling story that is still haunting to this day. Thomas Newman's addictive main theme for the film relies on a sparse, open-ended piano and loose background melodies, a stunning combination that works together in perfect harmony. The theme often feels questioning, as if the piano is attempting to have a conversation with you about life and the universe. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWRX2o3P4QQ It feels so very alive, as if Newman has opened up some musical netherworld where only beauty can exist. Elements of the theme lilt throughout the score, coming to a head in the final moments of the film in such a poetic way. It's one of those themes that you can always come back to as a gentle reminder of how film scores don't always need big, bombastic horns to be a pleasurable listening experience. All you need is a gifted composer and a great film.