John Powell

John Powell, born smack in the middle of the swinging '60s—September 18, 1963, London, England. If you’re into movie scores that actually make you feel something (and, come on, who isn’t?), you’ve definitely heard his work. The guy’s resume reads like a list of blockbusters: Wicked (2024), How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014), Happy Feet (2006). Not exactly indie flicks, huh? Powell’s music kinda sneaks up on you—one minute, you’re just watching some animated penguins tap-dance, next thing you know, you’re humming that tune for days. He’s got this knack for blending wild orchestral swells with the sort of catchy, toe-tapping melodies that stick in your head forever. You want epic? He’s got epic. You want playful? No problem. Somehow, his soundtracks manage to be both huge and intimate—like, you’re in the middle of a dragon battle, but also somehow curled up with a cup of tea. Oh, and fun fact: he was married to Melinda Lerner once upon a time. Not much drama there, but hey, life goes on. Honestly, Powell’s one of those composers who doesn’t always get household-name status, but the second you hear his stuff, it’s like, “Wait, I know this guy!” He’s basically been shaping the sound of modern film, whether people realize it or not. The man’s a legend, even if he’s not the guy getting mobbed on the red carpet. And that London upbringing? Maybe that’s where all the drama and flair in his music comes from. Or maybe he’s just that good.