The year 2024 has proven to be an exceptional time for music within the cinematic landscape. Noteworthy films such as Dune: Part Two have graced audiences with Hans Zimmer’s iconic compositions, while Beetlejuice Beetlejuice brings back nostalgic melodies from Danny Elfman. Additionally, Twisters captivates with its lively country rock soundtrack, enriching the film experiences.
This year also showcased an impressive array of needle-drop tracks in various movie soundtracks. For example, the enduring anthem “Like a Prayer” by Madonna accompanies Deadpool and Wolverine’s quest to save the universe, and the uplifting “Greatest Day” by Take That becomes the anthem for Anora’s most significant moments.
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“Time Will Crawl”by David Bowie
Challengers
Within the film Challengers, the hauntingly beautiful track “Time Will Crawl” by David Bowie plays during a pivotal party scene. This diegetic needle-drop deepens the viewer’s connection, as the audience shares the auditory experience with the characters. The moment is critical; as Art and Patrick become captivated by Tashi, their growing fixation foreshadows the destruction of their friendship.
Bowie’s lyrics, laden with references to the Chernobyl disaster, echo the escalating tensions within this complicated love triangle. Moreover, the song subtly hints at the film’s intricate nonlinear timeline, introducing viewers to a unique narrative structure that enriches the storytelling. Utilizing Bowie’s music is undoubtedly a masterstroke for any filmmaker.
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“Claw Machine”by Sloppy Jane ft. Phoebe Bridgers
I Saw The TV Glow
The soundtrack for I Saw the TV Glow boasts a number of original songs from acclaimed artists such as Florist, Drab Majesty, and Snail Mail. However, one standout track is “Claw Machine,” performed by Sloppy Jane alongside their former bassist Phoebe Bridgers. This hauntingly effective number plays in a bar named The Double Lunch and captures the film’s tone perfectly.
The vibes of “Claw Machine” not only resonate with the nostalgic ’90s mixtape aesthetic but also complement the eerie supernatural elements embedded in the storyline.
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“Bye Bye Bye”by NSYNC
Deadpool & Wolverine
The Deadpool & Wolverine soundtrack is filled with excellent needle-drops, including classics like Chris de Burgh’s “The Lady in Red” and Madonna’s “Like a Prayer.” However, one of the most memorable moments features NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye.” In a humorous callback to Wolverine’s reputation from X2, Deadpool employs his fighting skills to tackle TVA agents, all while performing the iconic choreography from the song’s music video.
This entertaining scene not only solidifies the moment in viewers’ minds but has also caused a resurgence of the song, leading to millions of streams and its adaptation into an emote within Fortnite.
Wicked
Although the film adaptation of Wicked only covers the musical’s first act, it concludes on an uplifting note. As Madame Morrible brands Elphaba a “wicked witch,”the students flee in panic, and chaos ensues, including Governor Thropp’s heart attack. This blend of drama and humor contributes to the film’s box office success, largely attributed to its feel-good essence.
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“Greatest Day”by Take That ft. Robin Schulz & Calum Scott
Anora
Opening with Take That’s “Greatest Day,” Sean Baker’s poignant character study Anora establishes its musical theme right from the start. This song resonates throughout the film, mirroring Anora’s transformative moment when she meets Ivan, symbolizing the best day of her life despite the fleeting nature of their relationship.
The melody encapsulates a sense of joy intertwined with melancholy, reflecting the bittersweet narrative of a love affair between a sex worker and her affluent client. After watching Anora, listeners will likely find it challenging to hear “Greatest Day” without reminiscing about the film’s touching story.
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