So, About That Japan Academy Prize for Music...
Okay, let's talk about the Japan Academy Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Music. It's a big deal, right? Shiny statues, fancy dresses, the whole shebang.
But sometimes, I just scratch my head. Like, really? That score won?
Is it Just Me, or...?
Don't get me wrong. Japanese film music is amazing! From sweeping orchestral scores to those super cool, electronic soundscapes, I love it all.
But have you ever felt like a particular movie's score just... didn't quite fit? Or maybe it was good, but not "award-winning, change-your-life" good?
"The music was... present." - My inner film critic.
I'm not saying I could do better. I can barely play chopsticks on the piano. But still, the choices are sometimes... interesting.
The "Safe" Choice vs. The "Wow" Choice
It feels like sometimes the Academy goes for the "safe" option. You know, the score that's technically perfect but lacks a certain... *oomph*.
Where's the love for the truly experimental? The stuff that makes you feel something, even if it's weird?
Maybe I'm just too attached to my quirky indie films. Give me a theremin and a kazoo orchestra any day!
My Unpopular Opinion Time!
Here it comes. Brace yourselves. I think some truly brilliant, innovative scores get overlooked for being, well, too different.
Is it because they're not traditionally "beautiful"? Or because they dare to use unconventional instruments? I don't know!
It just feels like the Academy sometimes favors the "sounds like a movie" score over the "sounds like a masterpiece" score. Big difference!
The Nostalgia Factor?
Could nostalgia be playing a role? Do they favor composers with established reputations? Perhaps.
It wouldn't be the first time an awards show played favorites. We all know how that goes.
I'm not saying *all* winners are undeserving. There have been some truly inspired choices over the years. But I think it's worth asking questions.
A Plea to the Academy
Dear Japan Academy, please consider the weirdos! The rebels! The composers who aren't afraid to break the mold!
Give those unconventional scores a chance. Let them shine!
After all, isn't art supposed to be about pushing boundaries and challenging expectations?
Maybe I'm Wrong... Maybe
Okay, maybe I'm being too harsh. Maybe my taste is just... questionable. My Spotify playlists certainly suggest so.
But even if I'm totally off base, it's fun to speculate, right?
So, what do you think? Any Japan Academy Prize music choices that made you raise an eyebrow? Let me know!
Let's start a (friendly) debate! Because at the end of the day, it's all about celebrating the power of music in film.
