While I wasn’t as gaga over Beasts of the Southern Wild as some, I did respect the film a great deal. It’s impressive for multiple reasons, not least of which is the fact that it actually got made at all. With a splintered, mystical, and ambiguous script, writer/director Benh Zeitlin’s has united critics and audiences in an experience unlike any I’ve ever seen in major multiplexes. Besides the groundbreaking lead performances from Quvenzhané Wallis and Dwight Henry, perhaps the most exciting aspect of the film is the unique score. Created by Zeitlin himself, the music blends classic folk sounds with naturalistic tones that reflect the ferocity of the little girl at the center. The music sets the pace for an atmospheric picture.

This short video takes you through Zeitlin’s scoring process.

Also, check out Zeitlin’s script for Beasts of the Southern Wild from Fox Searchlight.