What happens when technology doesn’t just change the way we live—but takes control of who we are?

In this episode of Score THIS, we dive into Upgrade (2018), Leigh Whannell’s stylish and brutal sci-fi thriller, and the pulse-pounding score by Jed Palmer. From Grey Trace’s transformation after a devastating attack to STEM’s increasingly dominant presence, we explore how the music drives the film’s shifting balance between humanity and machine.

With special guest, Marcus Pinn, we break down Palmer’s electronic textures, aggressive rhythms, unsettling sound design, and recurring musical ideas, examining how the score mirrors Grey’s physical transformation and the growing conflict between man and technology.

It’s Upgrade—a film where the body is the battlefield, the machine is the weapon, and the score keeps the system running.

For more information on Marcus Pinn, check out these links:

PINNLAND EMPIRE

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Questions? Comments about our episodes? Email us at Scorethispod@gmail.com! We welcome all listeners to offer films, games, and TV shows for us to cover, but please keep the emails on topic! It makes reading them easier and we can respond quicker that way! Also, follow us on Instagram.

Available on all streaming platforms.

Editor's Note: This episode was recorded on 6/27/26

Score THIS Scale explanation voiced by: Mia Shilling

In this episode of Score THIS, we dive headfirst into the wonderfully bizarre world of Earthworm Jim — the 1994 cult-classic game that turned a worm in a super suit into one of gaming’s most unforgettable heroes.

Joining us for this episode is special guest An Hobbes, as we explore the game's outrageous visual style, surreal humor, chaotic gameplay, and most importantly… its unforgettable music.

From explosive action to bizarre environments and moments of pure video game madness, Earthworm Jim has a soundtrack that refuses to play by the rules. We break down the sounds, influences, memorable themes, and musical personality that helped make this game so distinctive.

So grab your Super Suit, watch out for Queen Slug-for-a-Butt, and get ready to go GROOVY!

For more information on An Hobbes, check out these links:

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Music | An Hobbes

Questions? Comments about our episodes? Email us at Scorethispod@gmail.com! We welcome all listeners to offer films, games, and TV shows for us to cover, but please keep the emails on topic! It makes reading them easier and we can respond quicker that way! Also, follow us on Instagram.

Available on all streaming platforms.

Editor's Note: This episode was recorded on 6/12/26

Score THIS Scale explanation voiced by: Mia Shilling

On this episode of Score THIS, we're stepping into the shadowy world of Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai, where hip-hop, philosophy, and cinema collide through one of the most distinctive film scores ever composed. Joining us is special guest Jim Search, as we break down RZA's groundbreaking soundtrack and explore how it shapes every moment of Jim Jarmusch's cult classic.

From Ghost Dog's quiet rooftop reflections to the film's tense assassinations and meditative final confrontation, we'll examine how RZA's minimalist beats, haunting melodies, and atmospheric textures become the voice of the film's lone samurai. Along the way, we'll discuss the score's production, its influence on hip-hop and film music, and why Ghost Dog remains one of the most unique collaborations between a filmmaker and a music producer. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Wu-Tang Clan, a lover of film scores, or discovering this masterpiece for the first time, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

For more information on Jim Search, check out these links:

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Jim Search Official Music - Listen to songs on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music | Check for Videos on Linktree

Questions? Comments about our episodes? Email us at Scorethispod@gmail.com! We welcome all listeners to offer films, games, and TV shows for us to cover, but please keep the emails on topic! It makes reading them easier and we can respond quicker that way! Also, follow us on Instagram.

Available on all streaming platforms.

Editor's Note: This episode was recorded on 6/17/26

Score THIS Scale explanation voiced by: Mia Shilling