Steven Russell - Blog Post 7 - Persuasive Music

     The movie "Rudy" (1993) is an amazing example of using a soundtrack to fill in non-verbal communication.  All his life, people have told Rudy he's not good enough, not smart enough, not big enough. But nothing can stop his impossible dream of playing football for Notre Dame. From the time he's a young boy, Rudy (Sean Austin) is determined to join the Fighting Irish. But his blue collar family only laughs at his ambitions - they know Rudy will follow his father and brothers to the local steel mill. And, for four long years after high school, he does just that. But some dreams won't die, as Rudy proves when he goes to heroic, occasionally hilarious, lengths to win admission to Notre Dame. Once there, he becomes a walk-on player, serving as little more than a human tackling dummy against the starting players. Bloodied but unbeaten, Rudy wins the respect of legendary coach Al Parseghian and the other Irish players, who give him one shot at gridiron glory.  This movie is an incredible true story and gives an unforgettable testament to the power of dreams and the triumph of the common man. 
     Jerry Goldsmith is a renowned composer and was brilliant in his creation of music to accompany many of the scenes throughout the movie.  Often times in movies, the director is trying to create something that words fail to capture.  Instrumental music is thus used which contains absolutely no verbalization to sway movie goers.  Each person may perhaps interpret what the music means to them personally as different, however, the overall feel created by Goldsmith's composition is one of reverence and awe.
     When attempting to measure the heart and determination of Rudy Ruttiger on the football field, during two-a-day practices or in the locker room, we get the feeling that Rudy is an underdog - yet he himself may not see it that way.  The symphonic orchestra seems to tell the story of a truly good man who lives a simple life and struggles to overcome one obstacle after another.  The music allows us to feel Rudy's low points, grief and loss.  Later it invigorates viewers as the music grows more upbeat and is paired with his relentless work ethic.  Again obstacles arise and the music adjusts its tempo and instruments.  As the story nears its' conclusion, loud symbols and repeated rhythms nudge viewers into the belief that Rudy is actually going to miraculously pull off his dream of running onto the field during an actual game.  The climatic finale is manifested by pairing the peak of the music with Rudy being carried off the field.  The music sounds legendary and rightfully so, since Rudy was the last player to be carried on the shoulders of Notre Dame players off the field.
     Great movie, great soundtrack!