films + soundtracks

Music is one of the greatest ways to communicate emotions and this is seen in the soundtrack of films. Movies use music to complete a scene or set the mood for the audience and the films listed below use their soundtracks flawlessly. Some of the films & soundtracks listed below use their scores and musical collection to piece together the film and make the masterpiece it is today.

(500) Days of Summer

This movie has an amazing plot line, characters and is probably one of my favourite movies. However what makes it special is the collection of songs used to convey the emotions each character is going through. Each scene is filled with moving music from The Smiths to Regina Spektor, making the soundtrack phenomenal. The love story of the two characters is an emotional roller coaster and the music used will take you along the ride; whether you are watching the film or listening to it on your iPod. 

Anna Karenina

Nominated for Best Original Score for the 2013 Academy Awards, this amazing film should be referred to as a play. With a stage frequently used as the prime location of the movie, you are whisked away to Russia with the score weaved into the blocking of the characters and props. Every door slammed and footstep plays an important role in the score and makes you believe that you are in a theatre listening to a live orchestra. 

August Rush

The tale of a musically gifted child who loses his family and finds his way back to them through music; what's not to love about this film? This story is an ode to music lovers everywhere, paying attention to every detail that goes into making a beautiful song. Every sound in the movie has a trace of a melody or harmony and is all brought together in the end. With the final song that gives you shivers, "August's Rhapsody", you realize that music is all around us and all we have to do is listen.

Django Unchained

Tarantino's attention to detail in his films are seen in this well-suited soundtrack he created. A collection of songs, song written specifically for the movie, that weave each scene together and conveys the emotions felt in every character to the audience. Ranging from John Legend to 2pac, this collection has a variety of genres that keep you bumping the entire time.

Harry Potter Series

One of the most successful productions of all time, the Harry Potter series are known for their amazing cast and plot but not recognized for their wonderful original scores and songs. From the very beginning with the iconic "Hedwig's Theme", the orchestra behind the films have been under appreciated. The group continuously makes new songs that complete every battle, laugh and death seen in the series. In the final instalment, the soundtrack was better than ever with new songs like "Statues" that added a great deal of significance in every fight seen on screen. Definitely a soundtrack to relive the magic and emotions felt in the past eight movies.

Beasts of the Southern Wild

This remarkable film has a storyline like no other and a collection of original songs to go along with it. While following Hushpuppy and her adventure in the Bathtub, you can feel yourself following her journey with the music leading you there. Filled with wonder and curiosity, the orchestra behind this movie produced an outstanding score that makes you feel every emotion this young character feels throughout the film. The soundtrack inspires you to be as daring as the characters seen in the film and will move you to tears at some points, then uplifted and cheering the next.

The Perks of being a Wallflower

With a playlist included in the book, this film uses music to make the audience feel the power of solitude and longing. Charlie's internal battle throughout the book and film is heard when listening to the soundtrack and its theme of pain and loneliness. Sometimes all we need is a friend and the collection of songs chosen to convey this emotion was done beautifully both in the book and film.

Her

A simple, contemporary plot, this movie is carried by Joaquin Phoenix's acting and the incredible score seems endless. The soft piano or guitar in the background becomes a natural part of the story that leads the audience from the magnitude of each scene, yet manages to keep the tale light. Definitely worth the watch, along with listening to Karen O & Ezra Koenig's "Moon Song" sung by Scarlet Johannson in the film.

Drive

After the opening scene hooks the audience, "Nightcall" by Kavinsky & Lovefoxxx lures you into the dark story of Drive. The beginning song starts off a movie filled with heists and ruthless killings. The array of music by Cliff Martinez composed takes you along the adventure and convinces you that are you driving along with Gosling. The final song, "Bride of Deluxe", brings you back to reality and inspires you to download the soundtrack to relive the notorious moments whenever you drive.

The Great Gatsby

Half of the album being primarily covers, this album keeps the audience on their toes to listen to the next modern song warped into a 1920's life. With incredible songs by Florence + The Machine, Lana Del Rey and Sia, there is no surprise this album was a fan favourite.

Extremely Loud, Incredibly Close

Not only is this movie incredibly heavy and deals with the heartache of closure, the score amplifies the magnitude of Oskar's loss and his determination to find an answer. The score plays lightly in the background and subtly deepens the subject matter and portrays the pain the characters deal with throughout the film. A tearjerking score for sure, well done Alexandre Desplat.

Celeste and Jesse Forever

As the movie takes an interesting view on divorce and friendship, the collection of songs set the corky mood that allowed this movie to be better than a normal romantic comedy. Sunny Levine's "No Other Plans" stood out the most with a heartwarming montage to emphasize the relationship between Celeste and Jesse.

Palo Alto

James Franco and Gia Coppola team up to create a series of short stories into a creative, coming-of-age film. Appearing experimental at times, the score during the wide shots kept the pace and made the picture aesthetically pleasing. William Storkson's accompaniment captured adolescence with a series of synths and piano scales that kept the film alive and youthful.

The Bling Ring

Sofia Coppola does an amazing job with capturing the real story of the Hollywood Hills Burglar Bunch, with a twist of course. Of course the picture was cinematically appealing, as per Coppola protocol, but the soundtrack was amazing from beginning to end. If anything, the music made the scenes better than intended. Well done.

Let me know about other amazing soundtracks & scores!