Intellimusica

Lait Alejandro González Iñárritu’s “Biutiful” is a searing exploration of the human condition, and mortality. Starring Javier Bardem (in an incredible performance) the film delves into the complexities of a man struggling to reconcile his personal demons — with the immense challenges of living on […]

First Love and the Falling Snow I wrote “First Love and the Falling Snow” for my wife, Jennifer — as we approach our 23rd Wedding Anniversary in just a few days. Foremost in my memory is one of our early dates in 1998. (As a […]

Writing’s On The Wall The theme of 2015’s Spectre is “Writings On The Wall”, by Sam Smith. The song reminds me of the campy, Roger Moore-era James Bond themes. With Sam Smith’s crooning falsetto, it feels more in league with songs like: “Nobody Does it […]

The Hand of Fate Hands down, my favorite M. Night Shyamalan movie is Signs. The humor, the humanity, and the early fall scenery of Pennsylvania (my home state) just get me every time. It’s a movie that I return to every single fall. The soundtrack […]

Sam Mendes’ 2019 war epic, 1917, is a cinematic feat that immerses the audience in the horror of World War I. The film’s haunting and expansive score is from composer, Thomas Newman. The music conveys the emotional weight of the Lance Corporal Schofield (George MacKay) […]

The First I Love You My wife and I just rewatched the first 4 seasons of Stranger Things with our son Matthew. Neither of us had watched season 4, and it was incredible. The soundtrack of Stranger Things is the typical 80’s synth excellence we’ve […]

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’s signature brand of chaos is accompanied by the music of Danny Elfman — a name synonymous with quirky, unforgettable melodies. His music has long been a staple of Tim Burton’s imaginative and gothic worlds;  including Edward Scissorhands, Batman, Alice in Wonderland, and Corpse […]

Beyond Desolation Gustavo Santaolalla’s haunting and evocative score for The Last of Us Part II — exemplifies his mastery of cinematic sound. His melodies accompany Ellie’s journey, with a signature blend of traditional Latin American instruments and modern electronic sounds. The music perfectly captures the […]

Every 27 Years [Updated and reposted from 2017.] Every 27 Years is a hauntingly beautiful composition by composer, Benjamin Wallfisch, that was featured in the 2017 film adaptation of Stephen King’s IT. The piece serves as a thematic undercurrent — hinting at the cyclical nature […]

Charleston Girl Tyler Childers is often described as a “neotraditional” country artist. His soulful, Appalachian sound blends elements of bluegrass, folk, and even R&B. Childers’ lyrics often explore themes of rural life, and the human experience. While I love nearly all of his music, “Charleston […]

Alien Alien (1979) is a groundbreaking film that follows the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo, as they investigate a mysterious signal on a desolate planet, and encounter a deadly extraterrestrial creature. The film’s claustrophobic suspense, and iconic (H.R. Giger) creature design have made it […]

West Coast Lana Del Rey’s “West Coast” is a dreamy, melancholic ode to California. Released in 2014, it quickly became a summer anthem — with its laid-back vibe and nostalgic lyrics. The song captures the essence of longing, love, and the allure of the West […]