"I really liked the score just from hearing a clip of it played at the opening menu on the 'Nicholas Nickleby' DVD. Very pleasant, easy listening. It immediately caught my ear and I knew I had to buy the CD.I am a tad disappointed in the soundtrack though. I don't mind that the main theme repeats itself most of the tracks. My main problem is that the tracks are too short! There are 22 tracks in all, but at about 40 min. worth of total music, quite a few of the tracks hover at the minute mark, which seems rather silly. Only the first and last tracks are of substantial length. Although they seem to follow their appearance in the movie fairly accurately, I would not have minded if perhaps a 'suite' had appeared. I know it's unlikely, but I would dearly love an expanded release. Overall however, it's a good score."
Another gorgeous score from Portman
North Idaho Dad | 03/21/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"When you first hear this, you'll know it's Rachel Portman. Reminiscent of "Cider House Rules" and "Legend of Bagger Vance", this score confirms that Portman is one of the best. Romantic, uplifting, melodic, nostalgic. She brings all of this to every score she writes, and if her different movie themes end up all sounding a bit similar... well, that's fine with me!"
Excellent Work Rachel Portman!
Maureen | Severna Park, MD USA | 03/09/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The score to this amazing movie mirrors the emotion and beauty of every scene. Ms. Portman can capture love, peace, suspense, and pity in a simple alteration of one tune in one track. Her interpretation of characters onto the music staff is incredibly vivid, leaving the listener's imagination to recreate some of the most memorable scenes in the movie. Especially the first track which is the opening of the movie. The music grabs you and holds you there until the last second of the last track. Fantastic heart-warming score! You must hear it!"
Magic--wish it were longer!
Greg Vogel | Los Angeles | 10/15/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was greatly moved by this film; Nickleby's story is an inspiration for our times, and I thought it was well produced on screen. But I forgot about how much I liked the music until an Amazon review popped up accidentally in some web search or other. I rushed out to buy the CD, and thanks to the reviewers here, I was prepared for the fact that it's awfully short. Even so, the music is so charming and the main theme so sweetly uplifting, it's all forgivable. Thanks to Ms. Portman for a wonderful score, and yes, I'd love it if she would compose an entire suite."
As would be expected
Steller | London | 01/07/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This soundtrack is sheer poetry. The first time I saw this movie, I immediately noticed the soundtrack and loved it. Miss Portman has written several stunning scores, but I believe this is the most emotionally stirring one for me. A definate reccomendation"