Born in the U.K. in 1961. Perhaps better known as a composer of video game scores, he has nevertheless also written several effective movie scores. My favorite is The Martian.

Born in the U.S. in 1972. A very prolific composer, often hired for muscular action movies, such as the Fast & Furious franchise. My favorite: Iron Man 3.

Born in the U.S. in 1942. Won Oscar for The Right Stuff (1983). Famous for memorable TV themes as well as movie scores with soaring strings. My favorite: His themes…

1945-2006, born in the U.S. Wrote majestic orchestral scores as well as more electronic pieces; The Hunt for Red October (1990) fused the styles. My favorite: Conan the Barbarian (1982).

Born in Spain in 1955. Known for his collaborations with Pedro Almodóvar, scores relying heavily on piano, guitar and other string instruments. My favorite: the theme for Broken Embraces (2009).

1924-1994, born in the U.S. Won four Oscars, for the scores of Breakfast at Tiffany's and Victor/Victoria, and Best Original Song (Breakfast at Tiffany's, Days of Wine and Roses). Wrote…

1928-2020, born in Italy. Won Oscar for The Hateful Eight. One of the most influential composers ever, Morricone created the music of spaghetti Westerns. My favorite: The Untouchables.

Born in Lebanon in 1949. Won Oscar for The English Patient. A prolific composer, but best recognized for melancholy, piano-heavy scores. My favorite: The English Patient.

Born in the U.K. in 1963. He has scored many animated films (notably the How to Train Your Dragon franchise), but also action movies, including the Jason Bourne franchise. My…

Born in the U.S. in 1980. Known for his collaborations with Adam McKay and moody, emotional scores. My favorite: If Beale Street Could Talk.