Every once in a while it’s fun escape into a popcorn fantasy film, and something with a sword or two and a dragon are usually sure to please. In this case, Juan Carlos Fresnadillo delivers in all categories all the while offering a tale you thought you had seen before. With Netflix’s Damsel, he puts a spin on the “princess in distress” framework to make Millie Bobby Brown the hero of her own story. Then again, just looking at the album artwork below, you could probably figure that out.
To elevate and enhance the story, composer David Fleming was brought in to give Juan Carlos’ story literal wings. His work is captivating, full-bodied and because he was given a good amount of time to concept his sound, there’s some amazing ideas at work here.
We spoke to David previously for his last Netflix film (Hillbilly Elegy, directed by Ron Howard) and while this is a story which sets out to subvert expectations, you might expect that the music could go a completely different route. Yet early discussions between the director and composer were all about the former’s fondness for the orchestra which cemented the idea that this would be a very lush and robust soundscape. All in all, it was the right choice.
The selective elements/instruments and the placement work to create a vibrant film score. It’s acoustically satisfying (especially in the scary or heroic moments) but you feel the journey of the main character, Elodie, and the growth she’s experienced. As for the film, it’s a wild ride that feels like Die Hard meets Gravity by way of DragonHeart.
It was insightful and enjoyable chatting with David about this score and other things going on in his world…now what project is he most excited about? Being a Dad.
Through his soundtrack work, David has collaborated with popular recording artists such as Lady Gaga, Elton John, Pharrell Williams, Camilla Cabello, and Beyoncé, with whom he worked on the Grammy-nominated song “Spirit”, for The Lion King soundtrack. That would make any musician gush, but with Damsel, David speaks fondly about being able to work with his wife and also bring their young son to the studio.
We talk about all that and more on this episode of The GoSeeTalk Podcast Experience!
You can get info on David’s past and current projects at his official website. Recently, he’s completed the score for the documentary Jim Henson: Idea Man, directed by Ron Howard. In addition, he is currently composing the score for the Warner Brothers feature, Alto Knights, starring Robert DeNiro and directed by Barry Levinson, which is slated for a 2024 release.
