Composer Thomas Newman is to compose the film score for the 23rd James Bond movie, it has been announced.Called Skyfall, it will see the composer collaborate once again with director Sam Mendes, who has taken the reigns for the first time on the franchise.
Executive producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli said in a statement: “We are delighted to confirm that Thomas Newman will score Skyfall. Thomas is one of the most respected and successful composers, he has a long history of working with Sam Mendes and we look forward to welcoming him into the Bond family.”
Indeed, Newman has composed the scores for American Beauty, Road to Perdition, Jarhead and Revolutionary Road for Mendes.
Over the course of his career, Newman has composed music for films including Erin Brockovich, Wall-E and The Shawshank Redemption, picking up a BAFTA, five Grammys and an Emmy for his television work. He has also been nominated for ten Academy Awards.
“I’m incredibly excited to be working with Sam again. It’s a real thrill to be able to collaborate on something as special as a Bond movie,” he said of the appointment.
The move means that Bond composer David Arnold can focus on his role as music director of the London Olympics and Paralympic Games closing ceremonies, although he will have some involvement with the score.
Skyfall’s release later this year will mark the 50th anniversary of James Bond and the iconic theme tune by the late John Barry.
Indeed, David Arnold recently produced a John Barry Memorial Concert at the Royal Albert Hall to celebrate the life and works of the British composer.
It has not yet been confirmed who will sing the title track to Skyfall, but it was reported recently that Adele might be lined up to sing the theme song.