Most Epic Space Themes Ever
Like most of us, we here at SAM have been in awe of the Artemis II mission, the poise and bravery of the crew, and the hope it represents. The entire spectacle has us feeling nostalgic, reminiscent of the excitement and dare-to-dream mentality of the Space Race and 1980’s NASA. Naturally, our minds went to music, sparking an internal debate about the most epic film and TV space themes of all time.
Adding to our interest was the recent project we completed for CNN, whereby we created an original score for their Artemis II coverage. The aim was to give the piece a cinematic, Hollywood-orchestra feel driven by emotional strings with a tinge of pride and wonder. To the moon and beyond, the music will be used as a launching point for all future CNN space exploration coverage. Check out the final mix set to footage from CNN’s coverage.
CNN: Mission to the Moon, Artemis II Coverage
Music by: Stephen Arnold Music (SAM)
When it comes to epic film and TV space themes, there are dozens of out-of-this-universe options that push the boundaries of imagination. While challenging, we did our very best to narrow down a list we can all agree on. Take a listen.
#6 Lost In Space
Music by John Williams
What we love: One of John Williams’ first Hollywood scores. Jazzy 60’s brass section delivers energy and a sense of adventure.
#5 Contact
Music by Alan Silvestri
What we love: Heartfelt piano with a sense of longing, hope, and introspection.
#4 E.T.
Music by John Williams
What we love: Perhaps not a ‘space’ film in the truest sense, but it definitely had us wondering what might exist beyond the cosmos. Another Williams’ classic full of youthful wonder.
#3 Star Trek
Music by Alexander Courage
What we love: Mysterious and explorative with a hauntingly beautiful vocal that sounds like it’s coming from the outer reaches of the solar system.
#2 Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Music by John Williams
What we love: Eerie, funky, and spacey all at once. Equally impressive is the five-note synth motif which played a role in the film as the communication language between humans and aliens.
#1 Star Wars
Music by (you guessed it) John Williams
What we love: Adventure, wonder, mystery, conflict, triumph, and intrigue all wrapped up into a beautiful musical package. What more could you ask for? It’s a space theme for the ages.
Honorable Mention – 2001: A Space Odyssey
Music by Richard Strauss, Johann Strauss II, and Gyorgy Ligeti
What we love: Richard Strauss’ powerful opening motif (Also sprach Zarathustra) instantly gives us a sense of the unfathomable size of the universe. A memorable piece for sure, but written 85 years before the film. The original score by Alex North was abandoned by director, Stanley Kubrick in favor of a more classical feel.