The Greatest Movie Themes
A memorable movie theme song is an underrated crucial element that helps turn a great movie into an iconic one. At its core, a movie score is supposed to capture the mood and set the tone of what's going on in a particular scene. But the theme song if done right, can be as iconic as the film itself. Many film score composers set out to write a theme that fully encapsulates what a film is going for, but only a handful have become the greatest.
Perhaps the most famous film composer is John Williams, who is well represented on this list. Williams is the musical mind behind some of the greatest movie themes like Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, Superman, Jaws and the Star Wars movies. These film scores are as memorable and iconic as the films.
Great movie themes are often instrumentals that when played, can be easily recognized. Themes from Rocky, Batman, The Godfather franchise, 2001: A Space Odyssey, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Psycho are among the most recognizable songs and have long since established their place in pop culture. You can hear these songs on commercials and often times at sporting events as well.
The key element to remember as you vote on your favorite theme song is that we are only voting on the theme, not the entire score or soundtrack. This is the Ultimate List specifically for theme songs, so vote on what you think is the greatest movie them of all time. If you think a movie theme is missing, feel free to add it.
To vote on the movies with the best "mix tape" style soundtracks, not scores, check out movies with the best soundtracks. For best all-around sound, vote on the greatest soundtracks in film history.
- 1Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
- Released: 1977
- Directed by: George Lucas
A thrilling space opera, filled with compelling characters and intricate world-building, it's no wonder this film captured the hearts of millions. The epic orchestral theme song, rich in brass fanfares and instantly recognizable melodies, plays a crucial role in making the cinematic experience unforgettable.
- 2Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman
- Released: 1981
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
This adventurous tale packed with daring escapades and astonishing discoveries is perfectly accompanied by its rousing theme song. The sweeping melody, filled with heroic brass and spirited percussion, transports us alongside the intrepid archaeologist on each exhilarating pursuit.
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- 3Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
A magical yet gripping film that brings long-extinct creatures to life again, this captivating story enthralled audiences worldwide. The film's awe-inspiring theme, marked by soaring strings and poignant melodies, perfectly captures the wonder and excitement of walking among dinosaurs.
- 4Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss
- Released: 1975
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
The chilling tale of a seaside town terrorized by a man-eating great white shark kept audiences on the edge of their seats. The movie's simple yet menacing theme, with its iconic two-note motif, masterfully conveys the impending doom lurking beneath the waves.
- 5Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burgess Meredith
- Released: 1976
- Directed by: John G. Avildsen
An underdog story that resonated with viewers worldwide, this inspiring tale of a small-time boxer rising to greatness is accompanied by an equally rousing theme song. The driving rhythm and triumphant melody have become synonymous with moments of victory and overcoming adversity.
- 6Daniel Craig, Pierce Brosnan, Sean Connery
- Released: 1962 - Present
- Directed by: Terence Young, Guy Hamilton, Lewis Gilbert, Sam Mendes, Peter R. Hunt
Espionage, intrigue, and heart-stopping action are hallmarks of this long-running franchise. The sultry yet stirring theme music, featuring memorable guitar riffs and lush orchestral flourishes, perfectly encapsulates the suave sophistication and thrilling adventures of the world's most famous spy.
