Search - Jerry Goldsmith :: Poltergeist II: The Deluxe Edition

Goldsmith scores gold again.

Chadwick H. Saxelid | Concord, CA United States | 01/03/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"While the movie itself was nothing special, the score Jerry Goldsmith composed to accompany it certainly was. Because the movie was far less visceral and far more ethereal than its predecessor, Goldsmith's music has a softer touch that alternates between comforting and chilling. Gone is the ragged orchestal writhing of the first score, with Carol Anne's Theme being the only returning melody, everything else is brand new - the three major themes being the Native American invoking one for the shaman Taylor (heard almost immediately in The Power), the warm, comforting lushness of the family love (most heartwrenchingly presented in Late Call), and the malevolent hymnalesque theme for Henry Kane (introduced in The Mall with unnerving power). Goldsmith also uses some choral touches (ala The Omen) to very good effect. Why this more complete version was not released earlier is beyond me, for the scope of the score is breathtaking and the previous release did it an injustice. The liner notes also point out that the music is groundbreaking in another way was well. While Goldsmith had regularly used synthesizers in this orchestra long before it became fashionable to do so, his score for Poltergeist II: The Other Side was the first time the instruments took center/equal amounts of sonic stage - and they worked beautifully doing so. This disc is yet another solid example of Jerry Goldsmith being the legendary composer his fans proclaim him to be. Highly recommended."

POLTERGEIST II score Awesome

Charlie | Calgary, Alberta Canada | 10/17/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"From the beautiful opening scene at Spider Rock to the nearly disastrous finally, the score not only stayed loyal to the score in the original masterpiece but in many ways surpassed it. The main theme (Carol-Anne's theme) was again utilized and even twisted to sound uber scary in some tense moments. The creepy Henry Cain theme was truly disturbing. My favorite parts were the opening credits music followed by the first night when the terrifying clouds huddle over the house packing severe lightening/thunder (still gives me the chills). The piece from the score where Diane is holding Henry Cain's picture and telling Tangina of Henry Cains evil doings is so heartbreaking. I can not wait to buy this Soundtrack! The Movie combined with the music make it a true horror classic!"