Are you excited for the 2024 Oscars? We are, too! In this article, we delve into the early contenders for the Best Original Score category. While the final nominations are still in the making, we’re tracking the highest potentials based on the information from the current film festival circuit. Join us on the journey to Oscars night as we explore the frontrunners and potential dark horses for the 2024 Oscars’ Best Original Score category.
Top Contenders for Best Original Score
1. Ludwig Göransson – Oppenheimer

Themes: Strings, Solo Violin, Electronic Distortions
Ludwig Göransson’s score for Oppenheimer weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of strings and electronic distortions. It captures the emotional depth of Robert Oppenheimer’s journey with solo violin and brings a scientific backdrop to the soundtrack. With romantic and manic musical changes, Göransson’s work is a top contender for the Best Original Score category.
2. Daniel Pemberton – Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Themes: Dynamic, Strong Character Motives
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse introduced multiple dimensions to the beloved franchise. Daniel Pemberton’s score expands on the previous instalment, incorporating new themes and character motives. His innovative work elevates the film’s experience, making it a formidable candidate for the Oscars.
3. Robbie Robertson – Killers of the Flower Moon

Themes: Deep Beats, Acoustic Guitars, Cultural Elements
Robbie Robertson’s final score, Killers of the Flower Moon, is a poignant and captivating narrative. It’s the sentimental pick, considering his long-standing collaboration with Martin Scorsese. The score boasts deep beats, acoustic guitars, and special musical elements from the Osage tribes, creating a unique sonic landscape.
4. Thomas Newman – Elemental

Themes: Beautiful, Delicate, Emotionally Captivating
Thomas Newman, known for his work with Pixar, delivers a beautiful and emotionally captivating score for Elemental. While it may not be as grand as some contenders, it perfectly complements the movie, engaging the audience with its thematic depth.
5. Mica Levi – The Zone of Interest

Themes: Arresting, Discordant, Scary
Mica Levi’s score for The Zone of Interest sets a chilling tone for the film. It’s arresting and discordant, mirroring the horrors of World War Two and the Holocaust. Winning the soundtrack award at the Cannes Film Festival, Levy’s work positions itself as a strong contender for Best Original Score.
Dark Horse Candidates to Look for:
Laura Cartman for American Fiction
- Laura Cartman’s score for American Fiction has been described as inventive and whimsical. Her nomination would be groundbreaking, as she’s one of the few women in contention for Best Original Score. Keep an eye on this dark horse candidate.
Jerskin Fendrix – Poor Things
- In his film score debut, Jerskin Fendrix creates a dissonant rock fusion for Poor Things. This unique and delirious sound perfectly complements the film’s narrative, making it a compelling contender in this category.
Christopher Beer and Daniel Rosen – Past Lives
- Past Lives weaves an intricate and emotionally charged score between two childhood friends. The music crescendos towards the film’s conclusion, displaying exceptional craftsmanship. This dark horse candidate deserves recognition.
Michael Giacchino – Society of the Snow
- The score for Society of the Snow, based on a real-life Uruguayan flight crash, is emotionally cathartic and beautiful. With its powerful compositions, it could make a strong impression in the Best Original Score category.
Joe Hisaishi for The Boy in the Hero
- Joe Hisaishi’s score for The Boy in the Hero has received rave reviews and is integral to the film’s success. While it faces stiff competition, it remains a strong dark horse candidate for the Best Original Score Oscar.
As we eagerly anticipate the 2024 Oscars, these are our early predictions for the Best Original Score category. Stay tuned for updates as we track the contenders and follow their journey through the film festival circuit. The competition is fierce, but the beauty of film scores lies in their ability to elevate storytelling to new heights. We’ll be tracking the journey through film festivals, precursor awards, and the ultimate race towards the 2024 Oscars.
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We have full-time jobs and other responsibilities but work tirelessly to provide the best possible content for you all to enjoy. Anything is really appreciated. 😁
We have full-time jobs and other responsibilities but work tirelessly to provide the best possible content for you all to enjoy. Anything is really appreciated. 😁
We have full-time jobs and other responsibilities but work tirelessly to provide the best possible content for you all to enjoy. Anything is really appreciated. 😁
DonateDonate monthlyDonate yearlyAs we lead up to awards season, we will be regularly analyzing and predicting everything that comes our way. Be sure to head over to our Oscars page for all the latest news on our 2024 Oscar predictions (updated monthly), hot topics and analysis.
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