Laura Karpman Embeds Alan Silvestri Tribute in ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ Score
Laura Karpman has made history as the third composer to score a film in the Captain America franchise for Marvel. Following Alan Silvestri and Henry Jackman, who previously contributed to The Winter Soldier, Civil War, and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Karpman takes charge in the latest installment, Captain America: Brave New World. This film marks a significant milestone, as it is the first solo journey of Sam Wilson, portrayed by Anthony Mackie, with the iconic shield.
Tribute to Alan Silvestri and Henry Jackman
Karpman has paid homage to her predecessors by embedding references to their musical themes within her score. During a discussion at Deadline’s Sound & Screen: Film event, Karpman stated, “We could sit here for 20 years talking about Alan Silvestri’s iconic theme.” She expressed her challenge to audiences to find her subtle nods to Silvestri in her composition, particularly within Sam’s new theme titled “Brave New World.” Additionally, she acknowledged Henry Jackman’s contributions to the musical legacy.
Character Themes and Conspiracies
In her score for Captain America: Brave New World, Karpman crafted unique themes for several key characters. These include:
- Samuel Sterns, played by Tim Blake Nelson.
- President Ross, portrayed by Harrison Ford.
Karpman hints at a thrilling narrative arc for Ford’s character, suggesting a transformation into the Red Hulk. She remarked, “You get one president and it winds up being another,” pointing to themes of hidden agendas and conspiracies.
Origins and Influences
Laura Karpman first entered the Marvel universe with the animated series What If…?, describing the experience as “basically Marvel college.” This role required her to deeply understand the Marvel Cinematic Universe and music history. Following this, she received commendation from filmmaker Nia DaCosta, leading to her work on American Fiction, for which she earned an Original Score Oscar nomination.
Musical Style and Cultural Significance
Karpman has also scored The Marvels, Ms. Marvel, and Marvel’s Zombies. For Captain America: Brave New World, she drew from the aesthetic of mid-century modernism typical of classic political thrillers. One distinctive feature of the score is its incorporation of New Orleans-style percussion.
“That was all worked out with Second Line because of course Sam is from New Orleans,” Karpman explained. Her aim was to thread this cultural element into the fabric of the score, creating a musical identity that resonates with the character’s background.
With her innovative approach and deep respect for the franchise’s history, Karpman is poised to redefine the soundscape of Captain America, ensuring that the legacy continues to flourish.
