Point of No Return

Hans Zimmer's work in the 90's rarely strayed out of action films, and Point of No Return was no exception. The only difference, however, was that it was actually fairly smart. The film revolved around a drug addict who, with the help of the government, becomes an assasain. It was a very different project for Zimmer.

Like the film, Zimmer's work surprisingly differentiates itself (for the most) from all of the other action scores at the time. At times, the score is lighthearted, relying on a synthesized keyboard and even some Vangelis-inspired work. Other times, the music is more atmospheric, using synthesizers and violins (highlighted in 'Wedding Bells'). The 'Zimmer' portions of the score, however, fall into the generic action category. Fortunately, the use of female vocals intermixed with the music saves it from ever becoming bland.

While Zimmer's earlier works generally focused on the atypical (and future) media ventures sound, he occasionally stepped out of the norm deliver and interesting score, showcased fairly well in Point of no Return. While I would be lying if I said that this was a great score, it sure is a breath of fresh air from what most people would expect out of earlier Zimmer. The biggest problem firsthand is that the release is only 25 minutes on the album (the rest being Nina Simone tracks). Second, the music does occasionally step out it's own style from interesting action music to hard rock music. Fortunately, it's still a score to check out.