https://youtu.be/L44HtY05qjU John Williams' musical contributions to several film franchises allow him an interesting ability to expand, transform, and experiment with existing themes and material. The score to the second Indiana Jones film takes a darker, more psychological approach than its predecessor. While the music for Raiders tended toward heroic adventure, the music for Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom delved into the sinister side of humanity. The music for Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom also features humour at times, and the varied instrumentation allows for cues for everything from car chases in Shanghai to tunnels filled with bugs, to an electrifying mine car chase. One of the standout cues is "Slave Children's Crusade," which is the musical heartbeat of the film. This score is an exceptional expansion and expression of the Indiana Jones universe. Highlight tracks include: "Fast Streets of Shanghai," "The Scroll/To Pankot Palace," "The Temple of Doom," "Slave Children's Crusade," and "Finale and End Credits."
11. Star Wars: Episode VI - The Return Of The Jedi (1983)
https://youtu.be/MDYX_PgorRY Both the film and the score had crushing expectations after the rousing success that was The Empire Strikes Back. While audiences experienced a bit of a letdown, the score is still a tremendous achievement. One reason for the slightly less cohesive musical experience is the rapid-fire intercutting of storylines in the last third of the film. Neither the audience nor the music is given room to breathe. Nevertheless, the score for The Return of the Jedi has so many unforgettable moments to savor. From Luke's battle with the Rancor, the sail barge battle, to the incredible choral ambience that accompanies the Emperor, the music for the Jedi is varied and powerful. The tracks that denote the epic Battle of Endor are titanic action cues interspersed with a very personal struggle between the two sides of the Force. The wrap-up to the original trilogy is satisfying and intense. Highlight tracks include: "Luke Confronts Jabba/Den of the Rancor/Sarlacc Sentence," "The Pit of Carkoon/Sail Barge Assault," "Luke and Leia," "Emperor's Throne Room," and "The Battle of Endor II (Leia is Wounded/The Duel Begins/Overtaking the Bunker/The Dark Side Beckons/The Emperor's Death)."