Legendary composer Alan Silvestri joins Anthony and Joe Russo at Pizza Film School to break down the unforgettable music behind Avengers: Infinity War, Endgame, Back to the Future, Forrest Gump, and more. Alan Silvestri opens up about his earliest days composing with a pencil and paper, why empathy is essential for film music, and how his themes became emotional landmarks in the MCU. This one’s a masterclass in cinematic scoring.
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ABOUT THE SHOW: Created and hosted by Anthony and Joe Russo, “Pizza Film School” is a video podcast that demystifies the filmmaking world with each episode delving into creative processes, favorite films, and personal anecdotes from working in the industry, while enjoying a couple of slices from local pizzerias. An AGBO Production.
00:00 - Intro: Welcome to Pizza Film School 01:06 - Meet Alan Silvestri 01:45 - Alan Silvestri on Winemaking and Red Ranger Syrah 03:00 - Alan’s Musical Origin Story 05:25 - Composing Process: From Guitar to Orchestra 06:34 - Scoring Like a Sculptor 08:00 - Finding the Emotion in Film 09:38 - Creating the Avengers Theme 11:30 - Learning Storytelling Through Music 13:00 - Composing Through Empathy 14:39 - Advice for Young Composers 16:00 - How the Russos Met Alan Silvestri 17:00 - Breaking Down the Portal Scene in Endgame 21:00 - Using Music to Build an Emotional Arc 24:33 - Cap’s Return in Infinity War 27:00 - Leading the Audience with Music 29:00 - Thanos’ Emotional Victory and the Retirement Cue 33:00 - Final Notes and Thanos’ Ending Explained 36:00 - Audience Reactions and Scoring for Opera 38:00 - From Temp Music to Final Score 40:45 - Silvestri on Collaboration and Creative Direction 42:54 - Alan’s Career Advice: Know Your Role 47:00 - Gratitude, Legacy, and the Magic of Music 50:00 - Final Cheers and Farewell