Though many popular film soundtracks commonly consist of pre-released songs that have found new meaning in a film’s subject matter, many of these iconic compilations have grown into separate entities in their entirety, giving us newfound appreciation for the film and its music alike. As a result, many songs have become popular, or have capitalized on their already established popularity, thanks to their place in an equally popular film (and vice-versa).
Here are what I believe to be five of the best songs from movie soundtracks.
The Zombies – “The Way I Feel Inside” (from “The Life Aquatic”)
Wes Anderson’s “The Life Aquatic” is a peculiar comedy-drama film centered on Steve Zissou (played by Bill Murray), who sets out to kill a shark that ate his partner. The film’s zany take on a Moby Dick-esque plot takes many interesting turns, including a helicopter crash scene near the end of the film in which one of the film’s major characters perishes — all while The Zombies’ “The Way I Feel Inside” plays in the background.
[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7rLf0-WtFE[/embedyt]
The Kinks – Strangers (from “The Darjeeling Limited”)
Another Wes Anderson work, “DarJeeling Limited” follows three brothers who, after being unexpectedly reunited, travel through India in an attempt to bond with one another. Notable English rock band The Kinks are featured prominently in the film with three songs, including “Strangers,” a non-single song which found increased popularity through one of the film’s most captivating scenes.
[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbCxXBtt7_w[/embedyt]
Joe Walsh – “In the City” (from “The Warriors”)
A notable cult classic film from 1979, “The Warriors” follows the story of a New York gang that is framed for the murder of the leader of a contemporary gang. This moment ignites a conflict of tension and violence that eventually reaches a series of boiling points.
One of the film’s most iconic scenes comes in its final minutes, when a radio DJ salutes the titular gang by playing Joe Walsh’s “In the City,” a song that not only aurally reflects the aesthetic of the film, but also lyrically embodies the challenges faced by its characters.
[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfLV_hSj_uE[/embedyt]
The Beatles – “Twist and Shout” (from “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”)
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is often regarded as one of the most enjoyable and culturally referenced films from the 1980s, and it owes a fair amount of its popularity to its upbeat soundtrack. Specifically, The Beatles’ take on “Twist and Shout” is prominently featured during the film’s iconic parade scene, in which Ferris sporadically joins a parade float and lip syncs the song, among others.
[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81ZtmBAA_NE[/embedyt]
Redbone – “Come and Get Your Love” (from “Guardians of the Galaxy”)
Aside from being one of the best reviewed films in the Marvel cinematic canon, James Gunn’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” is universally known for its soundtrack (also known as the “Awesome Mix: Vol. 1”). The soundtrack draws mainly from 60s and 70s classic rock, including Redbone’s “Come and Get Your Love,” which serves as the backdrop to one of the film’s humorous opening scenes.
[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_jRQBGKPaA[/embedyt]
