KSL Movie Show review: ‘Music by John Williams’ is an exceptional documentary

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SALT LAKE CITY — Our senses are incredible triggers for emotions and memories.

Specifically, the gift of music is an especially powerful pathway to perhaps a time long forgotten or a flashpoint event that changed our lives.

Aside from The Beatles, I can’t think of anyone on the planet who has had more of a profound musical effect on my life than composer John Williams.

His work has ushered in so many great cinematic memories, not to mention the dozens of other tunes he wrote for TV, commercials, and Olympic ceremonies. In fact, I promise if you watch this, you’ll be blown away by how far-reaching his extraordinary talents have gone.

“I didn’t know he wrote that,” will be the common expression at every turn in this exceptional documentary.

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As you can tell, I’m a big fan. In fact, when my Yukon was stolen right out of my own garage years ago (long story), I wasn’t upset about my wallet, credit cards, prescription sunglasses that were taken. It was the two-CD collection of John William’s Greatest Hits that really yanked my chain! I listened to those soundtracks endlessly on trips to my hometown in California across the vastness of Nevada with joy in my heart — each and every time. And now it was gone, seemingly irreplaceable — well — until Jeff Bezos came along.

So what additionally can we expect from this Disney+ experience?

Well, not only will we hear a ton of his musical scores, but the stories behind many of them — a lot of them with director Steven Spielberg who couldn’t wait to see what Johnny had come up with to elevate his already great film to another level.

The funniest story dealing with an excited Williams playing the two notes of his idea for the theme to “Jaws.” Steven thought he was joking. Surely, this can’t be it? And, of course, it wasn’t and there was so much more.

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Then came along “Star Wars.” That sudden burst of symphony as those receding credits slammed onto the big screen. It was astounding then. It will be astounding yet again, as will so many other themes and anthems that sprang from the genius of this extraordinary humble man who came from a musical family. His father was a studio jazz drummer who would take young Johnny to recording sessions where he would learn to pick out the different instruments for future reference.

The only thing shocking about this thoughtful look-back is not the fact they he’s been nominated for 54 Academy Awards for Best Score, but that he’s only won FIVE TIMES! Who the heck won those other 49 times?? Don’t worry. His trophy case isn’t empty. He has 26 Grammys, seven BAFTAS, three Emmys, and four Golden Globes to keep his Oscars company.

And yet at 92, he’s still going strong, working on new material every day. What a story. What a man. You’re going to love this Disney+ documentary, “Music by John Williams.” In fact, I’m going back to watch it again right now.

MUSIC BY JOHN WILLIAMS (A+) Rated PG for some violence, smoking and brief language. Featuring John Williams, Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, Ron Howard, Ke Huy Quan, Seth MacFarlane, J.J. Abrams, Kate Capshaw, James Mangold and Chris Columbus. Directed by Laurent Bouzereau (“Faye” “The Bloody Hundredth”) — filmed in Los Angeles. Running time: 106 minutes.

The KSL Movie Show with Andy Farnsworth and Steve Salles airs Fridays on KSL NewsRadio from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Follow the show on Facebook, and join The KSL Movie Show Club for exclusive perks by texting MOVIE to 57500. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Message frequency varies.