Big Fish

The music in Big Fish does a good job of emphasizing the feelings of the scenes. The music throughout the movie usually fits into what is happening in the movie. Most of the music is mystical, representing the "stories" told by Edward. This mystical/fantasy music is first heard in the opening credits. Then the mystical music is heard when the stories are "narrated." However, there is more than just the fantasy music, there is also much music that fits the mood of the scenes. For example, when we learn that the son isn't talking to Edward, the music is sad. When Edward goes home to finally visit his dad, the music becomes reminiscent and slightly happy as he is walking up the stairs and sees picture of his childhood/family. Also, romantic music is played whenever there is a romantic scene (going back to a classical hollywood film trait).

The music is only used in the beginning whenever the "stories" are told and/or as a transition from the present to the narrated story. However, when the son starts finding more about his dad, and how these incident have happened, the music starts being used in the "present" and not just during flashbacks.

Another important element of the music, is the use of pre-existing music. Towards the end of the movie, a couple of pre-existing songs are used, including "All Shock-up" and "Five O'clock World." Some of the music in the movie, including the pre-existing music, also helps emphasis the time and place. For example, "All Shock-Up" is played when Ed is going to war. This song helps put into place when the scene was taking place. Also, when Ed was at the circus, the music played was circus music, representing the "circus" setting.