The record and cassette release featured 15 tracks, while the original CD release contained the same tracks in a different playing order.

In 2005, an updated CD, featuring two extra tracks, new artwork, a different playing order and sequencing by the group Marconi Union was released.

Various tracks from Music for Films III were incorporated into the soundtrack for Al Reinert's 1989 documentary For All Mankind.

Spin wrote the album, "proffers sustained atmospheres and creeping unease, far from the cut and dash of modern pop".

[2] The original Opal Records LP did not include ""Asian River" or "Theme for 'Opera'", although the cassette did.