Classical purists say it isn't 'real' music, yet it regularly tops charts and plays to sell-out concert hall audiences. Chart music followers consider the orchestral form passé, yet artists are increasingly sampling from cinema classics. Many cinemagoers are unaware there is music accompanying the films they watch. Some composers say that's the way it should be. Others strongly disagree. This book celebrates the rich history behind all these views.

Who have been the most influential composers and who have they influenced? Which scores have best served a film and why? What have been the historical, social, and technological changes that have affected the industry? This book addresses all these points in a chronological examination of this much-maligned art form.

From Ben Hur to Star Wars and Psycho to Scream, film music has played an essential role in such genre-defining classics. Making us laugh, cry, and jump with fright, it's the manipulative tool directors cannot do without. There are many differing approaches and opinions about what achieves a desired emotional effect, with composers always hunting a golden rulebook of tricks they can employ. This isn't that particular book.

What's in it? The turbulent history, the ever-changing craft, the reclusive or limelight-loving superstars, the enthusiastic world of fandom surrounding it, and the best way to build a collection. It's all streamlined into a user-friendly guide for buffs and novices alike.