Franz Waxman (; 24 December 190624 February 1967) - born Franz Wachsmann - was a German and American composer of Jewish descent, known primarily for his work in the film music genre. His film scores include The Bride of Frankenstein, Rebecca, Sunset Boulevard, A Place in the Sun, Stalag 17, Rear Window, Peyton Place, The Nun's Story, and Taras Bulba. He received twelve Academy Award nominations, and won two Oscars in consecutive years (for Sunset Boulevard and A Place in the Sun). He also received a Golden Globe Award for the former film. Bernard Herrmann said that the score for Taras Bulba was the most wonderful thing.