Michael Small (1939–2003) was an American composer renowned for his evocative film scores that masterfully captured psychological depth and suspense. His collaborations with director Alan J. Pakula on films like "Klute" (1971) and "The Parallax View" (1974) set a benchmark for thriller soundtracks. Small's ability to delve into characters' psyches through music made him a sought-after composer in Hollywood. Beyond thrillers, his versatile compositions graced films such as "The Postman Always Rings Twice" (1981) and "Mountains of the Moon" (1990). His legacy endures through scores that continue to resonate with audiences and influence contemporary composers. ([latimes.com](https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2003-dec-05-me-small5-story.html?utm_source=openai))