**The Best Movie Soundtracks of All Time: A Ranking**
Movie soundtracks are more than just background music; they are an integral part of the cinematic experience. They can evoke emotions, set the tone, and even become iconic in their own right. Here’s a ranking of some of the most memorable and influential movie soundtracks of all time.
### 1. **Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)**
John Williams’ score for _The Empire Strikes Back_ is widely regarded as one of the greatest film scores ever. It perfectly captures the epic battle between good and evil, with themes like the “Battle of Hoth” and “Darth Vader’s March” becoming synonymous with the Star Wars franchise. This soundtrack not only complements the film but also stands on its own as a masterpiece of orchestral music.
### 2. **The Omen Trilogy (1976)**
Jerry Goldsmith’s score for _The Omen_ trilogy is a masterclass in soundtracking. From the ominous opening track “Ave Satani” to the delicate scoring of tender family moments, Goldsmith’s work is both haunting and beautiful. His ability to balance horror and emotion makes this soundtrack a standout in the horror genre.
### 3. **The Devil Rides Out (1968)**
James Bernard’s scores for Hammer films are legendary, and _The Devil Rides Out_ is no exception. His overwrought and hysterical style perfectly captures the campy horror of Hammer films. Tracks like “Vampire Rhapsody” showcase his ability to create memorable and eerie themes.
### 4. **Eraserhead (1977)**
David Lynch’s _Eraserhead_ is a film that defies easy categorization, and its soundtrack is no exception. Bernard Herrmann’s use of a string section to create a haunting and atmospheric score is a stroke of genius. The infamous shower scene, with its shrieking violin soundtrack, is a superb cue that perfectly complements the film’s surreal and nightmarish world.
### 5. **The Ninth Gate (1999)**
Wojciech Kilar’s score for _The Ninth Gate_ is a surprising yet effective choice. The film’s gritty and dark atmosphere is perfectly captured by Kilar’s sparkling, balletic score. This soundtrack combines music from the original 1992 film and its sequel, making it a unique blend of old and new.
### 6. **The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)**
Howard Shore’s score for _The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring_ is a sweeping epic that perfectly complements the film’s grandeur. From the opening “Main Title” to the various themes for characters like Frodo and Gandalf, Shore’s work is both memorable and impactful. This soundtrack won him an Academy Award for Best Original Score.
### 7. **Mamma Mia (2008)**
Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’s soundtrack for _Mamma Mia_ is a fun and catchy collection of ABBA songs. Featuring Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried, this soundtrack is a perfect blend of music and film, making it a beloved classic among movie soundtracks.
### 8. **The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009)**
The soundtrack for _The Twilight Saga: New Moon_ is a mix of indie and pop music that perfectly captures the film’s moody and romantic atmosphere. Tracks like “Decode” by Paramore and “Meet Me on the Equinox” by Death Cab for Cutie are standout hits that have become synonymous with the Twilight franchise.
### 9. **Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 2 (2017)**
The soundtrack for _Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 2_ is
