By Callum Nicholls.

British composer Rob Foster paints a simplistic yet effective background to the tale of Sean Ellis’ Metro Manila. Foster is a multi-instrumentalist himself and that comes across in his music, opting for the use of a small ensemble with electronic loops, sound effects and synthesizers in order to help narrate the film.

On his website the composer acknowledges the influence of Talk Talk, Sigur Ros and Radio Head, however it is clear to hear how his technique and style has been influenced by film composers such as Hans Zimmer in particular his soundtracks for Inception and The Dark Knight trilogy. This influence is evident in Foster’s use of very similar materials throughout the soundtrack based around long drones or sound effects that then have the instrument ensemble develop around them.

The soundtrack is hauntingly beautiful and does provide a excellent accompaniment to Sean Ellis’ Oscar nominated film, however at some of the more dramatic points in the film the soundtrack falls somewhat short never fully erupting into a climax that mirrors the action on screen. Nonetheless as the first soundtrack for a composer who is more predominantly a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, it will be interesting to see how his style and technique develop into what is hopefully just the beginning of a very effective director composer relationship with Sean Ellis.

3/5

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