Golden Notes: Reznor and Ross Triumph at Golden Globes 2025
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, the powerhouse duo synonymous with sonic reinvention, clinched the Golden Globe for Best Original Score for Challengers, Luca Guadagnino’s steamy sports drama. The win adds another glittering accolade to their storied careers, cementing their place as Hollywood’s go-to composers for emotionally charged and avant-garde soundscapes. Listen to one of the tracks below.
From Industrial Icons to Hollywood Elite
Reznor and Ross, best known as the driving forces behind Nine Inch Nails, began their scoring journey with David Fincher’s The Social Network in 2010. That project earned them both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. Since then, their creative partnership has redefined film scoring with projects like Gone Girl, Mank, and Pixar’s Soul. The latter marked a striking departure for the duo, weaving jazz-inflected melodies with their signature electronic edge.
Their latest work on Challengers combines pulsating beats and ethereal textures, reflecting the film’s intense love triangle set against the backdrop of competitive tennis. Critics praised the score for its ability to balance intimacy with tension, underscoring Guadagnino’s trademark sensuality.
“A Challenge Worth Taking”
Reznor, in a post-ceremony interview, described film scoring as “a way to stay challenged and vital” in an industry he has occasionally found creatively stifling. His artistic synergy with Ross began more than 15 years ago, when Reznor signed Ross’ band, 12 Rounds, to his label, Nothing Records. That partnership has since evolved into one of the most respected collaborations in contemporary film.
What’s Next for the Duo?
With this latest win, fans and cinephiles alike are speculating about the duo’s next project. Whether it’s another high-profile feature or a smaller, experimental venture, Reznor and Ross continue to expand the boundaries of what film scores can achieve.
Reznor & Ross Prove the Power of Sound Again
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross once again proven their mastery of sound. Their Challengers score isn’t just music; it’s a narrative force that deepens the emotional core of Guadagnino’s film—a Golden Globe well deserved. See the full list of of Golden Globe winners here.
