What is the purpose of a film's score?

The purpose of a film's score is fundamentally tied to its ability to enhance the emotional resonance and atmosphere of the film. A well-composed score works in conjunction with the visuals and narrative to evoke specific feelings and moods, guiding the audience's emotional response to the story being told. It can heighten moments of tension, underscore scenes of joy or sorrow, and create an immersive experience that deepens the viewer's connection to the characters and events on screen.

While some elements like background information about characters or summarizing the plot may play a role in a film's overall storytelling, they are not the primary functions of a score. Similarly, rather than distracting from the visuals, a film's score is intended to complement and enhance what is being seen, making the overall experience more cohesive and impactful for the audience. Thus, the role of the score is central to the emotional engagement and atmosphere of the film, underlining its importance as a crucial component of cinematic storytelling.