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LOS ANGELES — Kris Bowers has taken on a new endeavor with his composition work for his first animated feature, earning accolades for his approach to storytelling through music, which has now led to an Oscar nomination.
Bowers’ contribution to “The Wild Robot” has reinforced his reputation as one of the premier composers in Hollywood, securing him a nomination for Best Original Score. This score beautifully enhances the film’s breathtaking visuals and emotional resonance, illustrating the journey of Roz, a robot out of its element, attempting to form bonds with the animals who are bewildered by it.
“It’s crucial to be clear about each story, tapping into the emotions that resonate with me,” stated Bowers, 35, who has received Grammy and Emmy nominations, and previously won an Academy Award for the short documentary “The Last Repair Shop.” His impressive portfolio also includes compositions for Oscar-winning movies like “King Richard” and “Green Book.”
In preparing for “The Wild Robot,” Bowers immersed himself in the early black-and-white illustrations, which helped him connect emotionally with the characters. He then translated those feelings into music at his piano, creating a poignant musical narrative. Bowers admitted that accessing his emotions has often been difficult, but his experiences as a father, particularly witnessing his wife’s physical sacrifices during pregnancy, provided him with the inspiration to craft sounds that encapsulate the essence of parenthood.
During a recent interview, Bowers shared what the Oscar nomination signifies for him, the complexities of composing for animated films, his admiration for five-time Oscar winner John Williams, and the lasting impact of advice from the late Kobe Bryant.
The Oscars are slated to take place on March 2.
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Interviewer: Your rising demand is remarkable. With multiple nominations and an Oscar win, how significant is this nomination for you?
Bowers: It’s incredibly meaningful. As a child, I discovered many composers by looking at Oscar nomination lists and then exploring their scores, which helped expand my music collection. Being part of this history is special. Regardless of where my career goes from here, my name will be remembered in this year’s accolades. To be recognized by the music branch of the academy, filled with composers I admire, makes it feel like I’ve achieved something worthwhile.
Interviewer: Did you look up to John Williams?
Bowers: Absolutely. He masterfully crafted memorable melodies. If you can hum a score from a film, it’s likely due to him. I drew inspiration from his era of composer-storytellers who ensured their music developed the narrative. When certain themes resurface at critical moments in a film, they evoke powerful emotions. For “The Wild Robot,” I analyzed the closing segment of “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” particularly since the last part of my film is highly action-oriented. I wondered how John Williams tackled similar challenges, given the iconic nature of “Star Wars.”
Interviewer: Did you consult your wife while scoring “The Wild Robot”?
Bowers: Only at a pivotal moment when I played her the main theme. I often share my compositions with her to gauge her feelings and reactions. When I played that particular sequence, even though it was unfinished, she became emotional and cried during just a three-minute portion without knowing the film’s context. That let me know I was capturing something valuable that resonated with her complex feelings as a mother.
Interviewer: Is composing for animated films more challenging than for live-action?
Bowers: Definitely. Many composers recognize that animation presents unique challenges. Animated films typically feature almost constant music, while live-action can have extended silence without music, which creates different opportunities for storytelling.
Interviewer: You collaborated with Kobe Bryant on the documentary “Muse” and other projects. What wise words did Kobe share with you?
Bowers: I worked closely with Kobe on various projects. He often referenced John Williams as my Michael Jordan in the industry, emphasizing the importance of obsessively refining my craft to be ready for any opportunity. The guidance he offered me while scoring “The Wild Robot” stemmed from his challenges for me to push my creativity further. I once wrote him a score for an audiobook, and he insisted, “This has to surpass the music for ‘E.T.’” I laughed, but he was serious. His belief was, “If you’re not undertaking projects that enhance you as an artist, you’re wasting your time.” That mentality fuels my approach to all my work.
Interviewer: What inspires you as a composer?
Bowers: My parents laid the foundation for my pursuits. They encouraged me to play piano even before I was born, arranging lessons and finding teachers for me. I feel an obligation to honor that by striving for greatness. Ultimately, it’s about living up to the paths my parents set for me.
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The Academy Awards will occur on March 2 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The event will be broadcast live on ABC, starting at 7 p.m. Eastern / 4 p.m. Pacific.
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Kris Bowers discusses his Oscar nomination for ‘Wild Robot,’ John Williams’ influence, and Kobe Bryant’s guidance.
