Above & Beyond release their first cinematic film score for The Last Glaciers. The IMAX version of the documentary, IMAX presents The Last Glaciers is set for release in select cinemas on 22 March. Directed and produced by award-winning filmmaker Craig Leeson (A Plastic Ocean) and United Nations Mountain Hero & Entrepreneur Malcolm Wood, the film is a documentary that takes viewers on a four-year, cross-continental journey to explore the cause and effects of climate change in Antarctica, the Himalaya, Alps, Andes and more.
The 40-minute IMAX release of the film will premiere exclusively worldwide on 22 March (World Water Day). The film strives to convey optimism about combating climate change while continuing the conversation and motivating individuals to make a difference. A story of caution and hope, the documentary captures the fragility of the natural world, and the impact humans have on the planet’s life support systems.
Inspired by the likes of James Horner, Alan Silvestri, Jerry Goldsmith, and John Williams, ‘The Last Glaciers’ soundtrack is a sweeping string-lead production, reflecting the vast landscapes featured in the film.
Jono Grant from Above & Beyond: “It was an honour to be invited by Craig to compose the score for ‘The Last Glaciers’. For the musical direction, we felt it important for the score to reflect the beauty of our changing planet that Craig had elegantly captured.
“Stylistically we wanted to combine our largely electronic musical background with live orchestra to create a hybrid score. It was important to us that the score both reflect the challenges facing the world today, and those faced by Craig as an individual and filmmaker over the course of filming. As well as conveying a sense of urgency, we wanted the score to portray an optimistic tone, and to encourage a positive call to action from the viewer.”
The score was written in collaboration with producer, composer, and performer Darren Tate, a longtime friend of the band whose credits include film scores for ‘Frontera’ and ‘How Do You Write A Joe Schermann Song’.
Darren Tate: “I am very excited to be part of this project as the message could not be of more importance (nor more urgent). Our planet is in peril and across the globe, action needs to be taken.
“When it came to the score we wanted to convey the challenges Craig faced, not only in getting this movie made and getting the message across but the physical challenges he had to endure; while appreciating the magnificence of the glaciers in all their beauty and the awe-inspiring cinematography.
“We wanted broad, triumphant themes (reminiscent of Horner, Silvestri, Goldsmith, and Williams) that represented his determination to do this; underlined with percussion and electronica which re-enforces the seriousness of the task ahead. We also wanted to paint a picture of hope; such as the theme that plays when the children protest at the very end; reminding us there is still time if we take decisive action now.”
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