Touching the Void - Musical Analysis

The first image that we see is of Joe struggling to escape the crevasse at the start of his climb. The music starts off very rhythmic with lots of low tones. The tempo is quite fast. There is a rising sense as the music builds up. The escalation of the music matches the character's physical escalation as he climbs upwards.

There is a sudden cut from Joe's climbing to the mountainous landscape. Strings are introduced into the score. The mood of the piece becomes more grand and uplifting. It takes on a sentimental almost romantic feel. The change in music suggests a change in circumstance.

As Joe lies in the snow, having escaped the crevasse the music becomes quieter and the mood more tranquil. There are fewer instruments and moments almost of silence. The tempo has slowed down considerably.

As the camera pans round the landscape there is another change in music. Eastern sounding musical instruments are introduced into the score. There is a sinister quality to the music and a sense of mystery and uncertainty that matches Joe's emotional uncertainty about what will become of him.