3 Epic Chord Progressions That Define Modern Film Scoring
- Filipe Leitão
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
What makes certain film cues feel instantly cinematic, even before a melody kicks in?
Often, it’s the chord progression — the emotional backbone that carries the scene and tells a story without words.
Let’s explore 3 iconic examples that shaped modern scoring, from Inception to Gladiator to trailer music staples like Protectors of the Earth.
1. “Time” – Hans Zimmer (Inception)
Progression:
Am – Em – G – D – Am – C – G – D
Mode: A Dorian

Zimmer’s “Time” is a masterclass in emotional build-up. This progression uses the Dorian mode to blend minor tonality with hopeful, rising motion — a feeling of forward movement and inner strength.
The i – v – VII – IV motion adds a sense of gravity and elegance.
The repeated cadences offer space for thematic development.
Works beautifully in drama, sci-fi, and slow-burn emotional arcs.
2. “Honor Him” – Hans Zimmer (Gladiator)
Progression:
F#m – Bm – E – F#m – E – D – Bm – E – C#m – F#m
Key: F# minor

This progression captures the sound of noble tragedy. It doesn’t resolve quickly — instead, it cycles through minor and major chords in a way that creates grandeur, reflection, and pathos.
Rich use of iv, VII, and VI gives emotional depth.
The motion feels circular, like a soul wrestling with fate.
Ideal for epic drama, historical films, or sacrifice themes.
3. “Protectors of the Earth” – Two Steps From Hell
Progression:
Gm – Eb – Bb – Dm
Key: G minor

This one has become a blueprint for trailer music. It’s concise, powerful, and packed with energy. The shift from i to VI and III gives it lift, while the iv (Dm) pulls it back into dramatic territory.
Strong minor key foundation with heroic overtones
Great for action, fantasy, battle scenes, or trailers
Short loop, huge impact
💡 Want to recreate this sound instantly?
All of these progressions (and many more) can be easily built using the Chords instrument in Strike Strings.
With just a few clicks, you can trigger pre-orchestrated, cinematic string voicings — recorded and arranged to deliver that same epic, emotional impact you hear in these scores.
✅ Use built-in chord presets
✅ Works in Kontakt Player
✅ Instant film score vibes — no need to orchestrate from scratch
Create music that sounds like the movies — right inside your DAW.
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