Complete Guide to the Batman and Robin Soundtrack: Every Song from the Movie

Batman and Robin is a 1997 superhero film inspired by the beloved DC Comics characters Batman and Robin. Directed by Joel Schumacher and produced by Peter MacGregor-Scott, this film marks the fourth and final installment in Warner Bros.’ original Batman movie series.

In this film, Batman is portrayed by George Clooney, while Chris O’Donnell takes on the role of Robin. The main antagonist, Mr. Freeze, is played by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Released on June 20, 1997, the film focuses on the duo’s efforts to maintain their partnership while facing the formidable threats of Poison Ivy and Mr. Freeze.

The soundtrack for Batman and Robin, titled Batman & Robin: Music from and Inspired by the Motion Picture, received more acclaim than the film itself. Released in May 1997, the album features a blend of artists, including R. Kelly, Goo Goo Dolls, R.E.M., and The Smashing Pumpkins, showcasing a variety of music genres. The album achieved commercial success, earning platinum certification and a Grammy Award for its standout single.

The official movie synopsis reads:

“Batman and Robin try to keep their relationship together even as they must stop Mr. Freeze and Poison Ivy from freezing Gotham City.”

Soundtracks of Batman and Robin

The End Is the Beginning Is the End – The Smashing Pumpkins

The Smashing Pumpkins’ “The End Is the Beginning Is the End,”featured in the closing credits, has become one of the film’s most iconic songs and won a Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance. Its hard rock elements perfectly match the film’s intensity.

Look into My Eyes – Bone Thugs-n-Harmony

Another highlight from the Batman and Robin soundtrack is “Look into My Eyes”by Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. This track adds a seamless hip-hop vibe and reached number four on the U.S. charts, encapsulating the emotional conflicts present in the film’s storyline.

Gotham City – R. Kelly

R. Kelly’s soulful “Gotham City”aligns well with the dark and mysterious essence of Gotham. It peaked at number nine in the United States, making it one of the most frequently played songs from the album. Its soothing rhythm provides a counterbalance to the movie’s high-energy action scenes.

Lazy Eye – Goo Goo Dolls

“Lazy Eye”by the Goo Goo Dolls delivers a grunge-rock essence that complements the chaotic yet compelling narrative of Batman and Robin. Though it didn’t climb to the top of the charts, it gained recognition as a valuable addition to the soundtrack.

Fun for Me – Moloko

Moloko’s “Fun for Me”introduces a lively electronic beat, breaking the intense atmosphere of the soundtrack. The song became a hit on the U.S. Dance Play Chart, peaking at number four, and helped to introduce the Irish-English duo to American audiences.

Revolution – R.E.M.

“Revolution”by R.E.M. brings an alternative rock flavor that enhances the film’s rebellious themes. The band’s distinctive sound lends energy to the narrative of Batman and Robin.

Foolish Games – Jewel

Jewel’s “Foolish Games,”with its poignant lyrics, emerged as a chart-topping ballad from the soundtrack, reaching number two in the U.S. This track offers an emotional contrast to the album’s more vigorous songs, with its radio remix achieving substantial popularity.

Poison Ivy – Meshell Ndegeocello

Meshell Ndegeocello’s “Poison Ivy”captures the character’s seductive yet dangerous nature. Its deep, moody rhythm perfectly embodies Poison Ivy’s menacing persona in the film.

Moaner – Underworld

Underworld’s “Moaner,”running over ten minutes, adds an electronic, trance-like texture to the soundtrack. Its extended length and repetitive beats distinguish it from other tracks, reflecting the film’s surreal aspects.

True to Myself – Eric Benét

Eric Benét’s “True to Myself”offers a soulful R&B sound that explores themes of self-discovery, adding a mellow, introspective element to the otherwise dynamic Batman and Robin soundtrack.

A Batman Overture – Elliot Goldenthal

The orchestral piece “A Batman Overture”by Elliot Goldenthal provides a classic cinematic essence to the soundtrack. While the majority of the album features contemporary music, this overture adds a traditional and powerful score element.

Songs Not in the Movie

Several tracks included on the Batman and Robin soundtrack do not appear in the film itself. Notably, “The Beginning Is the End Is the Beginning”by The Smashing Pumpkins and “Moaner”by Underworld are featured on the album. Their inclusion offers listeners a broader musical experience than what is depicted in the movie.

Featuring a blend of rock, R&B, and electronic music, the Batman and Robin soundtrack stands out as one of the film’s most noteworthy elements. Despite the movie’s shortcomings, the soundtrack achieved significant success.

With hits like “The End Is the Beginning Is the End”and “Look into My Eyes,”along with critical and commercial accolades, including a Grammy Award, the album continues to resonate with fans decades later, highlighting the power of exceptional music to transcend cinematic flaws.

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