Published: : March 9, 2025, 11:03 PM
The 2025 World Soundtrack Academy’s Film Music Composition Contest will pay tribute to the late David Lynch, with his 1980 classic The Elephant Man as this year’s centrepiece. Aspiring composers under 36 are invited to create a symphonic score for an excerpt from the film, with submissions open until May 12, 2025. The winner will receive the Award for Best Original Composition by a Young Composer at the World Soundtrack Awards Ceremony on October 15, part of the 52nd edition of Film Fest Gent, which runs from October 8-19.
Starring John Hurt in the titular role, The Elephant Man tells the true story of John Merrick, an English artist who endured extreme physical deformities and was exhibited in freak shows before finding refuge in society. The film received eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Director for Lynch and Best Original Score for John Morris.
Lynch, who passed away in January at the age of 78, was a visionary filmmaker known for his surreal and dark storytelling. His most celebrated works include Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and the iconic TV series Twin Peaks. Film Fest Gent and the World Soundtrack Academy aim to honor his lasting impact on cinema through this special tribute.
