Cinderella- a music review by Lauren Avila
If it wasn’t obvious in my previous review, I think Patrick Doyle’s work on this film is genius! There’s so much depth to each track that after hearing it dozens of times now, my heart still feels the adrenaline. I can actually hear the story being told to me through the ups and downs of this album. That’s when you know you’ve done something right! I’ve seen the movie only once, yet I keep experiencing it over and over when I listen to this. My favorite part about his gorgeous score is that it’s beautifully pieced together with bits of individual tracks to make masterpiece collaborations. Each part had its own theme and message serving as a reminder to differents emotions and previous parts of the movie. They were like characters themselves and in some ways, I feel, captured the spirits of the actual characters. I heard Ella’s mother in bits, Ella’s father in other, and Kit in some strands of music as well. They each meant something so when it came together it was just... astonishing.
I really want to point out more of the brilliance of Mr. Doyle’s composition. As I just mentioned, the bits were cleverly patterned together to bring different aspects of the tale together. Specifically, I want to talk about Lavender’s Blue. That simple lullaby was transitioned so wonderfully throughout the movie that it was epic. We kept hearing it weaved into the score and the story, little did we know, it was foreshadowing to be somewhat of the hero. The same lullaby that Ella’s mother sang to her, just like the wise words of “have courage and be kind” would eventually save Ella. She lived by her mother’s advice and sought sanctuary in her song. Where would Ella and Kit be now if she wasn’t singing it?! Of course we hear it at other important times as well like when Ella descends the grand staircase or the very last scene but I just love that it’s almost a hidden gem. Another is “The Great Secret” which is overwhelmingly successful at conveying emotion. It’s blended into tracks like “The First Branch” and “Orphaned” which although are heartbreaking, some of my favorites. Honestly though, I hardly have favorites otherwise I’d list the whole album.
It’s worth bringing this up again, although I talked briefly about it in my movie review, “La Valse de L’Amor.” I’m crazy about this track. I’ve had to force myself to stop pressing the repeat button for this one. It’s sooo romantic! It goes without saying that the dance itself is fantastic but the two together is the perfect marriage of elegance and delight. What girl doesn’t dream of wearing a ball gown and waltzing about with Prince Charming in a formal ballroom? Just listening to this track makes me feel like I’m doing just that without physically doing so. My heart just floats on it’s perfection. Well done Patrick Doyle!
Let’s also talk about the great songs on the soundtrack as well. “Strong” by Sonna Rele captures the spirit of the movie wonderfully. I really like the lyrics as an empowering message to all ages but especially kids. I can understand if some think it’s cheesy but some reason, I think the melody and words do justice to this new Disney classic. Speaking of classics, Lily James recorded a magical new version of “A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes.” It’s a sweet and slightly new arrangement. She really has a lovely voice. Helena Bonham Carter’s “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo” was great! Fun, whimsical, and well done. I think her version is the sister of the original, respectfully. Yes, I know there are plenty of people who were disappointed that Lily’s “Lavender’s Blue” wasn’t on the soundtrack. I was sad too but there’s a reason for everything. I’m not upset about it anymore because I think it’ll keep it special in context. I hope.
I love this new version of Cinderella, still I can’t help but think about how much I would love it without Patrick Doyle’s music. Truthfully, I think it would make a giant difference! Without it, the actors’ performances would still be marvelous, the costumes would still be amazing, the sets would still be magnificent, and the screenplay would still be superb but I wouldn’t have felt the same way and experienced the same things I did at the movie theater last Sunday. That’s not to say, I wouldn’t have loved it and it wouldn’t have come out as well as it did. However just like Ella and Kit would’ve been fine on their own, together this movie and this score, like Cinderella and Prince Charming will happily ever after.
I can honestly say I adore all of the tracks on the album. There’s something about each of them that I love. Since this is the movie of Cinderella, let’s end this review with Lily James herself.
Tracks worth an honorable mention:
I encourage everyone to buy the album and treat your ears to an unforgettable experience. The Cinderella soundtrack can be found online and in stores now.
http://www.disneystore.com/music-entertainment-cinderella-soundtrack-cd-live-action-film/mp/1374734/1000234/
