Thunderbirds

From the 60's onward, UK producer Gerry Anderson built a unique sci-fi TV mini-empire based on "Supermarionation," his unique blend of futuristic production design and marionette "actors" that have since inspired successful ad campaigns, a loving spoof from the creators of South Park and this big-screen, CGI 'n' live actor adaptation. Contemporary film score workhorse Hans Zimmer pays loving tribute to original Anderson musical collaborator Barry Gray, anchoring his update with a faithful cover of the late British composer's original series theme, then concocting a whole slate of new cues that build on the original show's brightly energetic, future-industrial soundtrack ethos. Indeed, the electro-orchestral fusion that Zimmer helped pioneer smartly reinforces that sensibility on muscular new cues like "International Rescue," "TB-3 Takeoff" and "F.A.B." Busted's marketing-oriented modern rock work-up of "Thunderbirds Are GO!" maintains the score's energy, even if it has precious little to do with the original's music -- or charm.