TLDR;
This video explores the concept of thematic transformation in film and video game music, using Erich Wolfgang Korngold's score for "The Adventures of Robin Hood" as a prime example. It contrasts this approach with the modern tendency to use static themes that repeat without change, arguing that dynamic, evolving music enhances storytelling. The video also highlights examples from "Super Mario World" and "Shovel Knight" to illustrate how music can effectively contribute to a narrative.
- Thematic transformation is key to effective light motifs.
- Modern film and game music often uses static themes, which is less effective.
- "Shovel Knight" exemplifies strong thematic transformation in video game music.
Introduction: Erich Wolfgang Korngold and The Adventures of Robin Hood [0:00]
In 1938, as the Nazis annexed Austria, Jewish composer Erich Wolfgang Korngold fled to Hollywood. Korngold, already known for his film work, composed the score for "The Adventures of Robin Hood," which became one of his greatest works and a cornerstone of film scoring. Korngold and his contemporaries had to develop methods for integrating music into films in a way that resonated with a general audience, balancing sophistication with accessibility.
The Use of Light Motifs and Thematic Transformation [1:30]
Korngold used light motifs to guide the audience through the film's narrative. A light motif is a reoccurring piece of music that represents a character, place, or idea. For example, Robin Hood has his own light motif. This motif is altered to reflect the changing circumstances in the film. This technique, known as thematic transformation (also called somatic transformation, thematic development, or motivic transformation), involves modifying a light motif to match the on-screen action and emotional context. This technique has been used for centuries, from Mozart to Beethoven to Wagner. Wagner, in particular, used thematic transformation to great effect in his operas, transforming light motifs to reflect the evolving narrative.
Examples of Thematic Transformation in Robin Hood [5:56]
Korngold masterfully employs thematic transformation throughout "The Adventures of Robin Hood." The Robin Hood light motif becomes menacing when he is in danger. When Robin Hood is with Maid Marian, their respective musical identities combine, underscoring their budding relationship. The video highlights the complexity and subtlety of Korngold's score, noting over fifty instances of light motif manipulation to enhance the narrative. Even a single chord can signal the presence of Robin Hood. The music that plays over the opening credits is used to represent the merry men, and it changes in tone depending on the situation.
The Problem with Modern Film and Television Music [11:01]
The video contrasts Korngold's dynamic approach with the modern trend of using static themes in film, television, and video games. Nowadays, entire pieces of music are often labeled as themes, representing characters or places, but these themes rarely change. This approach treats music as an object to be set up and paid off, rather than an integral part of the narrative. The music becomes interchangeable and doesn't add to the story. While this approach can be cost-effective and accessible for younger audiences, it sacrifices the potential for music to enhance storytelling.
Examples of Static Themes and the Importance of Narrative Music [12:56]
The video cites Naruto's "Sadness and Sorrow" as an example of a static theme that repeats without change. The video then transitions to examples where music is used as a narrative device, such as in Super Mario World, where every level features a variation on the same theme, creating a sense of unity within the game world.
Shovel Knight: A Modern Example of Thematic Transformation [15:51]
"Shovel Knight" is presented as a modern example of effective thematic transformation in video game music. Shovel Knight and Shield Knight each have their own light motifs that are combined when they are together. In the Specter of Torment story, the music is altered to reflect the changes in level design, musically communicating the different perspective of the same world. The video concludes by emphasizing that the music should be organic and contribute to the narrative, rather than being a static object.