The Best Movie Soundtracks Ever
A good soundtrack is an essential element in creating a memorable movie experience. The power of music goes hand in hand with the movie, enhancing emotions, setting the tone, and immersing the audience in the story.
Music can evoke emotions and create a deeper connection between the viewers and what they see on screen. It can intensify suspense, heighten drama, or bring out a sense of joy or sadness. A well-composed soundtrack can elevate even an average film to new heights by adding depth and resonance to each scene.
Furthermore, music helps to establish the atmosphere and period of a movie. Whether it’s a period piece set in the past or a futuristic sci-fi film, the right musical choices can transport viewers into that specific world and enhance their overall experience.
In addition to its emotional impact, music also serves practical purposes in movies. It helps with pacing by providing cues for transitions between scenes or indicating mood changes. It can also be used as a narrative tool to foreshadow events or highlight important moments.
Ultimately, a good soundtrack is crucial for creating an immersive cinematic experience that resonates with audiences long after they leave the cinema. It adds another layer of storytelling that complements visuals and dialogue, making movies more engaging and memorable. Let’s take a look at some of the best movie soundtracks of all time.
Pulp Fiction (1994)
Quentin Tarantino’s iconic masterpiece burst onto the silver screen with the exhilarating sounds of Misirlou by Dick Dale. Alongside this surfing sensation, the film showcased a mesmerizing selection of tunes, including the infectious Jungle Boogie by Kool And The Gang and an array of other cult rock and soul hits that captivated audiences worldwide. However, what truly stands out in my memory is the unforgettable cover of Neil Diamond’s “Girl You’ll Be A Woman Soon” by Urge Overkill. This song serves as the soundtrack to Uma Thurman’s character, on the brink of a harrowing heroin overdose scene.
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
The extraordinary Marvel comedy surpassed all expectations with its refreshing approach to the superhero genre. Its clever blend of dark humour and incredible music played a significant role in its phenomenal success. Prepare to be blown away by the captivating soundtrack of this film! The music selection, known as the Awesome Mix Vol 1, is a brilliant mixtape featuring iconic artists like David Bowie, Marvin Gaye, and The Runaways. It’s a dynamic blend that perfectly complements the on-screen action and adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your viewing experience. Get ready to groove along with these legendary tunes!
Trainspotting (1996)
Danny Boyle’s portrayal of the gritty underworld of Edinburgh is truly iconic. The movie opens with a memorable scene where Ewan McGregor races down the street, perfectly set to the energetic tune of Iggy Pop’s “Lust For Life”. The soundtrack for this unforgettable experience featured iconic songs like New Order’s Temptation, Blur’s Sing, and the timeless classic Born Slippy by Underworld. These tracks added a perfect touch of energy and nostalgia, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. For an extra touch of genuineness, the iconic anthem “Perfect Day” by Lou Reed is an absolute must-have. Its raw and honest lyrics capture the essence of real-life experiences in a compelling way that resonates with audiences.
A Hard Day’s Night (1964)
The Beatles’ debut movie was accompanied by an album that showcased their musical brilliance. One side of this album featured songs directly from the film, while the other side presented new tracks. This marked a significant milestone for the band as it became their first album to solely consist of Lennon and McCartney compositions. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of this film’s soundtrack. Prepare to be blown away by the energetic and dynamic title track, “Can’t Buy Me Love”, as well as other unforgettable beat-era classics like “I Should Have Known Better”. These iconic songs will leave you with a sense of nostalgia and transport you back to an era filled with musical brilliance.
This Is Spinal Tap (1984)
One of Britain’s most esteemed heavy metal bands embarked on an unforgettable tour across America to promote their highly acclaimed album, Smell The Glove. The accompanying documentary not only offers a captivating visual experience but also boasts an exceptional soundtrack that perfectly captures the band’s raw energy and musical brilliance. This album brilliantly captures the band’s evolution and showcases their mastery of gender politics in songs like “Big Bottom” and their conceptual creativity with “Stonehenge.” But it doesn’t stop there — the album also delivers pure entertainment with tracks like “(Tonight) I’m Going To Rock You (Tonight).” It’s a testament to their growth as a band during this transitional period. Needless to say, it surpasses even the acclaimed “Shark Sandwich.”
Easy Rider (1969)
When it comes to the counterculture of the late 1960s, there’s one movie that stands out as a true gem. Starring Dennis Hooper and Peter Fonda, this film follows two bikers on a captivating journey through the back roads of America. It’s a cinematic masterpiece that captures the essence of freedom and rebellion during that era. As they journey, they encounter Jack Nicholson and embark on exhilarating rides atop their motorcycles, all while being serenaded by the iconic tunes of Jimi Hendrix and The Byrds. No true motorcyclist can deny the exhilarating feeling of having “Born To Be Wild” by Steppenwolf playing in their mind as they hit the open road. Its iconic riff embodies the spirit of freedom and adventure that every rider seeks. So, if someone claims otherwise, they’re simply not being honest with themselves.
The Crow (1994)
This adaptation of the influential comic book was tragically plagued by misfortune. During filming, a prop gun misfired, leading to the untimely death of its star, Brandon Lee. This unforeseen incident adds an air of tragedy that pierces through the otherwise promising production. The movie was captivating, with a heavy atmosphere that resonated throughout. The carefully selected soundtrack perfectly complemented the darkness of the storyline. Notably, Nine Inch Nails covered Joy Division, The Cure contributed their most gothic song “Burn”, and The Jesus And Mary Chain, Pantera, and Stone Temple Pilots all made powerful appearances. This combination created an engrossing experience that left a lasting impression on viewers.
Written by Mark Murphy Director
