THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (2011)

Just like how any movie directed by Steven Spielberg can’t go too wrong (yes, even 2008’s Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull had its merits), his frequent collaborator John Williams is also man who can do no wrong. In their latest project, they take Tintin from Herge’s comic books, and boy, what a treat it is!

The 65-minute album will delight both fans and those listening to Williams’ music for the first time. The disc kicks off with the jazzy “The Adventures of Tintin”, a cue that reminds us of the charming end credit theme from Catch Me if You Can (2002). From there, you embark on a playful journey with the characters you had grown up falling in love with. “Snowy’s Theme” and “Introducing The Thompsons and Snowy’s Chase” are frisky tunes that may not be impressionable at first listen, but grow on you in a pleasantly sprightly manner.

Those familiar with Williams’ music compositions will have a blast with engaging cues like “Escape From Karaboudjan”, “Sir Francis And The Unicorn” and “The Flight to Bagghar”. Without visuals, these grandly orchestrated pieces are able to bring you on a journey with Tintin and his motley crew. The highlight of the must own album is “The Pursuit Of The Falcon “, which transits nicely from “Presenting Bianca Castafiore” after a ear shattering finale. The six minute track is a fine testament that the 80 year old composer still has got what it takes.

Emotions are brought to a high point as the album comes to an end. Listen out for “The Clash Of The Cranes” and “The Return to Marlinspike Hall and Finale”, where you triumphantly conclude the adventure with the multi award winning composer’s energetic score.

In a career spanning almost six decades, you cannot help but take your hat off the maestro’s talents. When the album ends with the teasing “The Adventure Continues”, you will realize why Williams is the most celebrated and successful American composer in our time.

 ALBUM RATING:

Recommended Track: (14) The Pursuit of the Falcon

Review by John Li