Danny Elfman: Batman

Prince provided the songs for this movie, but it was Danny Elfman’s menacing orchestral score which swept the dark film along to its shadowy conclusion.

Released: 1989
Director: Tim Burton
Cast: Michael Keaton, Kim Basinger, Jack Nicholson

The Film: Based on the Frank Miller Batman comics of the era, which were renowned for their dark and sinister tone, the film directed by Tim Burton made an about turn to the dark roots of the true Batman character and a move away from the campy 1960s TV versions. Starring Jack Nicholson as The Joker and Michael Keaton as Batman.

The Composer: Danny Elfman has composed scores for all but two of Tim Burton's films including the 2005 box office hit, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. His musical signature in these films helps create the fantasy and gothic style so typical of Burton's films, using instrumentation such as the pipe organ and boys chorus. Yet Elfman is probably best known for his penning of the theme tune of The Simpsons!