Although barely remembered in relation to
John Williams' concurrent scores to blockbusters including The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and E.T. the Extra Terrestrial, 1981's Heartbeeps remains one of the most delightful and creative efforts of the composer's career. A series of light and lively melodies that wonderfully evoke the screwball adventures of robot protagonists
Andy Kaufman and
Bernadette Peters, the soundtrack is unique in the
Williams catalog for its pronounced reliance on
electronic effects. Although plainly a product of its era, Heartbeeps has dated surprisingly well, and listeners seeking a respite from the bombast of
Williams' most famous scores will find much to appreciate. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide
