Jóhann Jóhannsson, who created the score for films such as Prisoners, Theory of Everything, Sicario, and Arrival, has died. The Icelandic composer was found unresponsive in his apartment in Berlin, Germany on Friday, February 9th, according to the Hollywood Reporter. No cause of death has been revealed, though authorities are said to be conducting an investigation. An autopsy will be performed.
Jóhannsson’s stunning body of work had made him one of Hollywood’s most sought-after composers. He was known for melding electronic beats with an orchestral backing. His music was often industrial, minimalist, and other-worldly, contributing to a fantastic sense of dread and anxiety that would build to a crescendo during climactic scenes. Jóhannsson won a Golden Globe for his work on Theory of Everything (which was also nominated for an Academy Award), and his score for Sicario landed him an Oscar nomination. He was also nominated for several awards for his compositions in Arrival.
Along with previously mentioned films, Jóhannsson contributed to the soundtracks for Foxcatcher and mother! He was scheduled to work with Denis Villeneuve for the fourth time to score Blade Runner 2049, but he was replaced by the legendary Hans Zimmer. As for unreleased work, he composed the score for the upcoming Mary Magdalene film.
His agency, Gorfaine-Schwartz, said the following: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our client and dear friend Jóhann Jóhannsson, whose great talent, humility and kindness enriched our lives immeasurably. His music has inspired many new generations of filmmakers and composers. He will be so greatly missed by his Gorfaine/Schwartz family as well as the entire film music community.”
His tragic passing leaves behind a daughter, his three sisters, and his parents.
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