Filminimalism: a multi-framework analysis of postminimalist techniques in contemporary film music. Embodied cognition and misempathetic music in the film scores of Johann Johannsson, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, and Mica Levi.

Chase, Samuel J. (2020) Filminimalism: a multi-framework analysis of postminimalist techniques in contemporary film music. Embodied cognition and misempathetic music in the film scores of Johann Johannsson, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, and Mica Levi. Doctoral thesis, University of Surrey.

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Abstract

Many contemporary Hollywood film scores differ greatly from the symphonic, neo-Romantic style that is a trademark of the Golden Era of Hollywood. Instead, scores nowadays often favour non-melodic, minimalist writing, non-orchestral instrumentation, and other characteristics foreign to film music even a few decades ago. In this dissertation, I explore both what brought about this musical change, and, in particular, the style and genre to which the music has changed. I have named this new category of music Filminimalism, and this thesis provides an extensive textural analysis of the music, as well as the films it accompanies. To do this, it views Filminimalism through four distinct analytical lenses, providing a detailed historical, cultural, musical, and theoretical analysis. First, through historical and cultural analysis in chapter two, this thesis determines the predecessors, influences, and contexts of this music, including Minimalism and its transition to Postminimalism, Hollywood business practices, and technological advancements. Chapter three then analyses the music itself, providing a definitive aesthetic and syntactic classification that can then be used to test whether future film scores would be considered to exhibit Filminimal properties. Chapters four, five, and six then analyse the works of three Oscar-nominated composers – Johann Johannsson, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, and Mica Levi – through multiple theoretical lenses in order to demonstrate how Filminimalism communicates emotional significance to the filmgoer either through subconscious Embodied Simulation, or through Multimedia Incongruences.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Divisions :	Theses
Authors :	Chase, Samuel J.
Date :	30 June 2020
Funders :	N/A
DOI :	10.15126/thesis.00856960
Contributors :	Contribution Name Email ORCID http://www.loc.gov/loc.terms/relators/THS Barham, Jeremy J.Barham@surrey.ac.uk
Depositing User :	Sam Chase
Date Deposited :	09 Jul 2020 14:55
Last Modified :	09 Jul 2020 14:56
URI:	http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/id/eprint/856960

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