Film composer Nicholas Britell debuted in 2009, but in just under a decade has put up a filmography that rivals anyone working today. And with his latest score, for the awards-favorite film “If Beale Street Could Talk,” the Academy Award-nominated Britell has outdone himself.
In honor of the upcoming release of the ‘Beale Street’ soundtrack, we are proud to offer an exclusive taste of what’s sure to be another Oscar-nominated score for Britell. In the track “Agape,” you hear just what makes the music in ‘Beale Street’ so memorable and emotional. Especially when you see how this piece is used in the film, you’ll experience a flood of emotions that you’ll have trouble replicating in any other film experience this year.
READ MORE: ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’: Barry Jenkins’ Latest Drama Is Marvelous [TIFF Review]
For those not familiar with Britell’s previous work, the composer was nominated for an Oscar for his work on the film “Moonlight,” again with Barry Jenkins who helmed ‘Beale Street.’ But before that, Britell worked on films like “12 Years a Slave,” “The Big Short,” and debuted on the 2009 film “New York, I Love You,” which was directed by Natalie Portman. And 2018 is shaping up to be his biggest year yet, with ‘Beale Street’ and the upcoming “Vice,” teaming Britell with ‘Big Short’ director Adam McKay once again.
“It was a truly special experience to collaborate with Barry on ‘If Beale Street Could Talk,’” says Britell. “Together, we explored a sonic landscape filled with brass and strings, while also venturing into some quite extreme experimentation. I’m always fascinated by the mysteries of scoring a film. As Barry and I worked together, we discovered certain sounds which we felt deeply resonated with the story. I’m so honored to have been a part of this film and to have had the opportunity to work with Barry again.”
READ MORE: Nicholas Britell On Letting The Music Of ‘Moonlight’ Soar [Interview]
Jenkins added, “Working with Nick on the score for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ was a wonderful continuation of the process we began on ‘Moonlight.’ In channeling the voices of James Baldwin, our main character Tish and the rich array of souls she encounters and the moods and themes she charts, we arrived at a sound that I feel truly honors the wonderful text that Baldwin gifted us while creating a distinct soundscape for this literary adaptation.”
The score for “If Beale Street Could Talk” hits on November 9. And the film, which should be near the top of every film fan’s must-see list will be released November 30.
You can see the cover art and listen to the exclusive track, “Agape,” below:
