An Inside Look at Kris Bowers: From Oscars Nominee to the Influence of John Williams and Kobe Bryant's Wisdom
- NewsBlend360
- Feb 12
- 4 min read
By NEWS BLEND 360
Updated 11:55 PM EST, February 12, 2025
LOS ANGELES (NB360) — Kris Bowers has ventured into new territory with his inaugural animated film, transforming his distinctive musical storytelling into an Oscar-nominated achievement.
Bowers’ contribution to “ The Wild Robot ” further cements his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most esteemed composers, earning him a nomination for Best Original Score. His composition enhances the film’s impressive visuals and emotional depth, encapsulating the journey of Roz, a displaced robot seeking connection with animals that struggle to comprehend it.
“It’s about being really clear with each story, understanding what the emotion is and what’s stirring inside of me,” remarked Bowers, 35, a Grammy and Emmy-nominated composer who has previously won an Academy Award for the short documentary “The Last Repair Shop.” He has also contributed to Oscar-winning films such as “King Richard” and “ Green Book.”
For “The Wild Robot,” Bowers initially examined the early black-and-white sketches to uncover his emotional responses to the characters, translating those feelings into a musical narrative at his piano. This narrative is rich with emotion. Bowers acknowledged that accessing his emotions has never been straightforward, but he drew inspiration from his experiences as a father, observing his wife’s sacrifices during pregnancy, to create sounds that embody the essence of parenthood.
In a recent interview with News Blend 360, Bowers reflected on the significance of the Oscar nomination, the complexities of composing for animated films, the enduring impact of five-time Oscar winner John Williams, and the lasting influence of Kobe Bryant’s advice on his career.
The Oscars will air March 2.
NB360: You've become highly sought after, receiving Grammy and Emmy nominations and winning an Oscar. What significance does this nomination hold for you?
BOWERS: It holds significant importance for me. As a child, I discovered many composers by reviewing the list of Oscar nominees. I would note who was nominated and then listen to those scores, which helped expand my CD collection. Being part of this history is meaningful. Regardless of what happens in my career from this point forward, someone will look at this year's list and see my name. Being nominated means being selected by the music branch of the academy, comprised of composers I have admired since childhood. It gives me a sense of having achieved something substantial.
NB360: You also held John Williams in high esteem...
BOWERS: Indeed, he was a master of creating memorable melodies. If there's a film score you can hum, it's likely composed by John Williams. One lesson I learned from him is that he emerged during a time when composers were storytellers, ensuring the music contributed to the narrative. When those themes resurface at the most crucial moments in a film, they evoke strong emotions. For "The Wild Robot," I specifically studied the final 30 minutes of "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope," because the last 20-30 minutes of "The Wild Robot" are entirely action-packed. I pondered, "How did John Williams tackle this?" given that "Star Wars" is renowned for its iconic themes.
NB360: When composing the score for “The Wild Robot,” did you seek your wife’s input?
BOWERS: The only moment was when I performed the main theme. I wanted to see if it evoked that complexity. I often do this with my wife, where I play a theme and ask her, “What does this remind you of, or how does this make you feel?” I recall playing her that sequence, which was still a work in progress, and she became emotional. She cried watching just that three-minute sequence, without knowing anything about the movie. I felt like I was on the right path. ... It reminded her of all the complex emotions she experiences as a mom. I touched a nerve in a way that could be significant.
NB360: Is creating an animated film more challenging or simpler than producing a live-action film?
BOWERS: It’s definitely more challenging. If you talk to any composer, they’ll talk about the fact that animation is its own challenge. Most animated films have almost wall-to-wall music where music kind of doesn’t ever stop. Whereas, a lot of live action, you can sit for five minutes and not have any music and be OK.
NB360: You created music for Kobe Bryant's 2015 documentary "Muse" and collaborated on other projects with him. You refer to the NBA legend as your mentor. What advice did Kobe share with you?
BOWERS: I did a lot of work for Kobe. He mentioned that John Williams was like my Michael Jordan. He was all about being so dedicated to your craft that you're ready for anything. The material I composed for “The Wild Robot” was influenced by the challenges he set for me. I created this audiobook for him, and he said, “You know this has to surpass the music for ‘E.T.’?”
I laughed. And he responded, “You know I’m not (expletive) joking, right?”
He constantly reminded me, “If you’re not working on something that will make you a better artist by the time you finish, then you’re wasting your time.”
That mindset influences how I approach everything. I want to tackle as many projects as possible. If that opportunity arose, I’d be ready for it.
NB360: What drives your passion?
BOWERS: I believe my parents set me on this path from the start. They intended for me to play piano even before I was born. They arranged lessons and found teachers for me. I feel a sort of obligation to them to reach my full potential. However, it's also about me trying to follow the path my parents initiated for me.
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The Academy Awards are set to take place on March 2 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. ABC will broadcast the event live, starting at 7 p.m. Eastern/4 p.m. Pacific.
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