Deep Beethoven: Film’s Love of Allegretto

By Jacob Oller

Film theory and music theory combine in an interesting and in-depth look at Beethoven and movies.

If pop soundtracks are time capsules, classical scores are time machines. The emotions and history pent up in the orchestral arrangements of the past seep through even the most modern films when used correctly. Some films might use them ironically, but even then it’s better than yet another cover of “Hallelujah.”

Beethoven is a particular favorite among filmmakers (which isn’t surprising considering his popularity among…well, everyone), his Symphony No. 7 in specific. In this, the second movement, Allegretto, is one of the most recognizable pieces of composition ever set to page. Movies jumped on this as soon as 1934, continuing until today.

Editor Zach Dennis explores the sounds and usages of the piece in his deep-diving video essay. The piece’s history, its arrangement, and its effect on screen are all explored in painstaking detail – perfect for those of us obsessed with film music (that may or may not have an embarrassing amount of film scores looped on Spotify).

The article Deep Beethoven: Film’s Love of Allegretto appeared first on Film School Rejects.

Related Posts:

• ‘Purge’ Yourself: The Necessity of Violent Catharsis in Genre CinemaIs the sanitization of cinematic violence what makes us numb to it? I remember the first time I ever, intentionally, broke something. Not an accident or an “Oops!” moment, but a cinematic bottle breaking. Like the kind you se… Read More
• The Legacy of ‘The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years,’ 30 Years LaterMusic docs are becoming a pervasive, tired genre, yet the 1988 film still feels unflinching, gripping, and fresh. Whether they’re geniuses or tortured souls, musicians rank as some of the most compelling and natural subjects … Read More
• The History of A24: A Timeline of the Rising DistributorDespite their young age, A24 has emerged as a voice for the value of artistic filmmaking. Here’s a breakdown of where they’ve been and where they’re headed. If you’re a film lover in the 21st century, chances are you’ve come … Read More
• Watch ‘Incredibles 2,’ Then Watch These MoviesWe recommend movies to check out after you see the latest Pixar sequel. In the 14 years since the release of The Incredibles, superhero movies have become a major part of the cinematic output. While the original movie wa… Read More
• Why Aren’t We Still Talking About ‘Treasure Planet’?A look at Musker and Clements’s much-maligned masterpiece. Last week, the Wreck-It Ralph 2 trailer arrived, and with it, Disney dove headfirst into the wide, wicked world of shameless self-promotion. Sure, the basic “jok… Read More