Since the late eighties, there has been an uptick in filmmakers weaving music throughout their films. The best directors and filmmakers are able to mix multiple genres and artists into one film without losing the meaning behind the music or the feel of the film. There are a million and one movies that do this outstandingly, but here are a few of the most ambitious movie soundtracks.
1. “Baby Driver” (2017)
Any and all of Edgar Wright’s films could easily fill this list, but “Baby Driver” takes the cake. From the unforgettable opening scene set to “Bell Bottoms” by The John Spencer band, to a tasteful use of Beck’s “Debra,” this movie is filled with an eclectic mixtape of music that work together to enhance the fast-paced story.
2. “Trainspotting” (1996)
For fans of Britpop, this is film is a fever dream. Ironically, for everyone else, this film is also a fever dream as it features Iggy Pop, Joy Division, and David Bowie all in one movie. When the official soundtrack for the film was released, two separate albums had to be put out to contain all of the music that was used as inspiration or cut from the film.
3. “The Road to El Dorado” (2000)
Composed mostly by Elton John, this animated film has a sound like no other. Early 2000’s pop meets Elton John’s 80’s pop rock flair, creating something both ethereal and magical. Not only does the soundtrack compliment the campy adventurous tale of the film, but it also helps to move the story along through songs like “Friends Never Say Goodbye,” which is featured during the film as a montage.
4. “Juno” (2007)
Bouncing between Kimya Dawson, Buddy Holly, and The Kinks, “Juno” truly has it all. Although the song uses a wide range of music, the biggest contribution is Kimya Dawson’s soft folk indie sound. Dawson’s style of music perfectly embodies the gentle awkwardness of Juno’s characters and their situation.
5. “Call Me By Your Name” (2017)
Most memorable off of this soundtrack is Sufjan Steven’s unforgettable original songs. Steven’s folk sound drives the narrative forward in the same almost surreal way that the characters experience the events of the film. When the soundtrack was pressed on vinyl in 2018, the album managed to make it into the top ten on the Billboard charts.
What’s your favorite movie soundtrack?
Keep up with Melodic Magazine: Instagram // Twitter // Spotify // Facebook
