What Movies Have the Best Soundtracks?

The magic of movies doesn’t just come from the visuals on screen, but also from the music that sets the tone and enhances the emotions of every scene. From classic scores to contemporary beats, film soundtracks have the power to transport us to different worlds and make us feel a wide range of emotions. In this article, we’ll explore some of the movies that have had truly great soundtracks, from epic blockbusters to indie darlings. Get ready to add some new tunes to your playlist and discover the movies that will forever be remembered for their iconic soundtracks.

Great Soundtracks in Film History

Iconic Film Soundtracks

• “The Godfather” (1972) directed by Francis Ford Coppola, with a score composed by Nino Rota. The soundtrack features iconic pieces such as “The Godfather Waltz” and “Speak Softly Love (The Godfather’s Theme)”.
• “Star Wars” (1977) directed by George Lucas, with a score composed by John Williams. The soundtrack includes the famous “Main Title” and “The Imperial March”.
• “Purple Rain” (1984) directed by Albert Magnoli, with a score composed by Prince. The soundtrack features Prince’s hit songs, including “Purple Rain” and “When Doves Cry”.
• “Dirty Dancing” (1987) directed by Emile Ardolino, with a score composed by Patrick Leonard and Stephen Nachtigall. The soundtrack includes the hit songs “Hungry Like the Wolf” by Duran Duran and “She’s Like the Wind” by Patrick Swayze.
• “The Lion King” (1994) directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, with a score composed by Hans Zimmer and various other composers. The soundtrack features popular songs such as “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata”.

Influential Film Soundtracks

Over the years, certain movies have had soundtracks that have become iconic and have had a lasting impact on the film industry. These movies have used music to enhance the emotional experience of the viewer and have left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. In this section, we will explore some of the most influential film soundtracks of all time.

• The Godfather (1972) directed by Francis Ford Coppola is one of the most influential movies of all time. The movie’s soundtrack features classic tracks like “I’m Alright” by John Barry and “Never Apologize, Never Explain” by Carlo Siliotto. The music complements the film’s narrative, emphasizing the emotional turmoil of the characters and creating a sense of tension and drama.
• Star Wars (1977) directed by George Lucas is another example of an influential film soundtrack. The movie’s soundtrack features a unique blend of orchestral and electronic music, including the iconic “Star Wars Main Title” composed by John Williams. The music helps to create a sense of wonder and adventure, transporting the viewer to a galaxy far, far away.
• Purple Rain (1984) directed by Albert Magnoli is a movie that features a soundtrack by Prince, who also stars in the film. The movie’s soundtrack includes hits like “When Doves Cry” and “Let’s Go Crazy,” which have become iconic tracks in the history of popular music. The music in the film is integral to the story, with Prince’s character using music as a way to express himself and connect with others.
• Saturday Night Fever (1977) directed by John Badham is a movie that helped to popularize disco music. The movie’s soundtrack features classic tracks like “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees and “How Deep Is Your Love” by the Bee Gees. The music helps to create a sense of energy and excitement, reflecting the vibrant nightlife of 1970s New York City.
• Fame (1980) directed by Alan Parker is a movie that tells the story of students at the High School of Performing Arts in New York City. The movie’s soundtrack features a mix of original music and covers of popular songs, including “Fame” by Irene Cara and “Hot Lunch Jam” by David DeHaan. The music helps to create a sense of excitement and energy, reflecting the students’ passion for dance, music, and theater.

In conclusion, these movies are just a few examples of the many films that have had influential soundtracks. The music in these films has helped to create a sense of atmosphere, emotion, and energy, and has contributed to the lasting impact of these movies on popular culture.

Genres with Notable Soundtracks

Sci-Fi Soundtracks

Science fiction films often boast of iconic soundtracks that perfectly complement the visuals and enhance the viewing experience. The score and sound effects work together to create an immersive atmosphere, drawing the audience into the futuristic worlds depicted on screen. Some of the most notable sci-fi soundtracks include:

• Blade Runner (1982): The film’s soundtrack, composed by Vangelis, is a blend of electronic and orchestral music that sets the tone for the dystopian future portrayed in the movie. The haunting and atmospheric music adds depth to the narrative, making it a memorable and enduring component of the film.
• Star Wars (1977 – present): The Star Wars franchise has some of the most recognizable and iconic soundtracks in cinema history. John Williams’ score for the original trilogy is a masterpiece of symphonic music, with memorable themes for each of the main characters and motifs that evoke the spirit of adventure and exploration. The soundtracks for the prequels and sequels also maintain the high standard of musical storytelling.
• Terminator (1984): The score for the first Terminator film, composed by Brad Fiedel, is a blend of synthesizer-based music and orchestral arrangements that creates a sense of tension and foreboding. The theme music has become synonymous with the franchise and is instantly recognizable to audiences worldwide.
• Alien (1979): The soundtrack for Alien, composed by Jerry Goldsmith, is a chilling blend of electronic and orchestral music that heightens the suspense and fear factor in the film. The score is an integral part of the film’s atmosphere, adding to the eerie and claustrophobic environment of the spaceship.
• Interstellar (2014): The soundtrack for Interstellar, composed by Hans Zimmer, is a blend of orchestral and electronic music that complements the epic scale of the film’s visuals. The score is a masterful blend of emotional and atmospheric elements, enhancing the sense of wonder and awe as the characters travel through space.

These are just a few examples of the many outstanding sci-fi soundtracks that have become integral to the cinematic experience. The interplay between music and visuals can elevate a film to new heights, making the overall experience more immersive and unforgettable.

Romance Soundtracks

• Romance movies are known for their captivating storylines and intense emotions, and their soundtracks are no exception.
• These soundtracks often feature a mix of classic and contemporary songs that help to set the tone and mood of the film.
• Some of the most notable romance soundtracks include:
  • “The Bodyguard” (1992) – featuring Whitney Houston’s hit single “I Will Always Love You.”
  • “Dirty Dancing” (1987) – featuring classic hits like “Hungry Eyes” and “I’ve Had the Time of My Life.”
  • “The Notebook” (2004) – featuring songs like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Unchained Melody.”
  • “Titanic” (1997) – featuring Celine Dion’s iconic ballad “My Heart Will Go On.”
  • “The Fault in Our Stars” (2014) – featuring songs like “All I Want” and “Another Little Piece of My Heart.”
• These soundtracks are not only enjoyable to listen to on their own, but they also enhance the viewing experience by adding depth and emotion to the scenes they accompany.

Action Soundtracks

Action movies often rely heavily on their soundtracks to enhance the intensity and excitement of the on-screen action. Some of the most memorable and impactful soundtracks in cinema history come from the action genre. Here are some of the best action movie soundtracks:

• Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991): The iconic score by Brad Fiedel perfectly captures the sense of dread and urgency of a post-apocalyptic world. The theme for the T-1000, with its ominous, metallic tones, is particularly chilling.
• The Dark Knight (2008): Hans Zimmer’s score for this film is a masterclass in creating tension and atmosphere. The theme for the Joker, with its distorted, menacing strings, is one of the most recognizable and unsettling pieces of music in recent cinema history.
• Mad Max: Fury Road (2015): Tom Holkenborg’s score is a non-stop thrill ride that perfectly complements the film’s relentless action. The use of guitars and drums gives the music a raw, primal energy that matches the post-apocalyptic setting.
• John Wick (2014): The score by Tyler Bates is a fusion of electronic and orchestral elements that creates a unique and memorable sound. The use of pounding drums and soaring strings adds to the film’s sense of intensity and brutality.
• Die Hard (1988): Michael Kamen’s score is a classic example of how music can enhance the action on screen. The use of rock and orchestral elements creates a sense of heroism and determination that perfectly matches the character of John McClane.

These are just a few examples of the many great action movie soundtracks out there. The right soundtrack can elevate an action movie from an entertaining diversion to a truly unforgettable experience.

Memorable Soundtracks from the Past Decade

2010s Soundtracks

The 2010s saw a resurgence in the importance of soundtracks in movies, with many films boasting memorable and iconic scores. Here are some of the best soundtracks from the past decade:

• “La La Land” (2016): This musical film’s original score by Justin Hurwitz won several awards, including a Golden Globe and an Academy Award. The catchy and emotional music perfectly complements the movie’s romantic storyline.
• “The Grand Budapest Hotel” (2014): Director Wes Anderson’s quirky style is matched by the film’s score by Alexandre Desplat. The soundtrack features a mix of classical and original music, adding to the film’s unique and charming atmosphere.
• “Moonlight” (2016): The powerful and emotional score by Nicholas Britell supports the film’s themes of identity and belonging. The music blends classical, jazz, and hip-hop elements to create a rich and evocative sound.
• “Blade Runner 2049” (2017): The sequel to the classic sci-fi film features a haunting and atmospheric score by Benjamin Wallfisch and Hans Zimmer. The music adds to the film’s sense of mystery and suspense, enhancing the visuals and storytelling.
• “Mad Max: Fury Road” (2015): The action-packed film’s score by Tom Holkenborg (aka Junkie XL) is a standout, featuring a mix of intense and driving music, as well as more introspective and emotional tracks. The music perfectly complements the film’s intense action sequences and emotional moments.
• “Get Out” (2017): The horror-thriller’s score by Michael Abel is a standout, featuring a mix of hip-hop, funk, and classical music. The music adds to the film’s tension and suspense, while also commenting on the film’s themes of race and identity.
• “Phantom Thread” (2017): The period drama’s score by Jonny Greenwood features a mix of classical and original music, with a particular focus on the use of strings. The music perfectly complements the film’s sense of elegance and drama, while also adding to its dark and unsettling undertones.
• “The Social Network” (2010): The film’s score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross won several awards, including an Academy Award. The music perfectly captures the film’s sense of tension and urgency, while also adding to its sense of cool detachment.
• “The Handmaiden” (2016): The South Korean film’s score by Park Jinying features a mix of traditional Korean instruments and modern electronic music. The music adds to the film’s sense of mystery and eroticism, while also supporting its themes of deception and desire.

2020s Soundtracks

In recent years, movie soundtracks have become increasingly prominent in the world of cinema. With the rise of streaming platforms and the increasing popularity of music, soundtracks have taken center stage, and the 2020s have been no exception. Here are some of the most memorable soundtracks from the past decade:

1. La La Land (2016)

Directed by Damien Chazelle, La La Land is a musical romantic drama that follows the story of two struggling artists in Los Angeles. The film’s soundtrack features a mix of original compositions and covers of popular songs, including the hit single “Another Day of Sun.” The soundtrack won several awards, including a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media.

1. The Greatest Showman (2017)

The Greatest Showman is a musical biographical drama that tells the story of P.T. Barnum, the man behind the creation of the circus. The film’s soundtrack features original songs written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, including the hit singles “This Is Me” and “The Greatest Show.” The soundtrack was a commercial success, selling over two million copies in the US alone.

1. A Star is Born (2018)

A Star is Born is a musical romantic drama that tells the story of a singer-songwriter who discovers and falls in love with a talented young singer. The film’s soundtrack features original songs written by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, including the hit single “Shallow.” The soundtrack was a critical and commercial success, winning several awards and selling over a million copies worldwide.

1. Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

Bohemian Rhapsody is a biographical drama that tells the story of Freddie Mercury and Queen. The film’s soundtrack features a mix of original compositions and covers of popular songs, including the hit single “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The soundtrack was a commercial success, selling over two million copies in the US alone.

1. Rocketman (2019)

Rocketman is a musical biographical drama that tells the story of Elton John. The film’s soundtrack features a mix of original compositions and covers of popular songs, including the hit single “Tiny Dancer.” The soundtrack was a critical and commercial success, winning several awards and selling over a million copies worldwide.

These are just a few examples of the many memorable soundtracks from the past decade. With the rise of streaming platforms and the increasing popularity of music, soundtracks have taken center stage in the world of cinema, and the 2020s have been no exception.

Soundtracks that Transcended the Film

Soundtracks that Became Popular in Their Own Right

Some movie soundtracks have transcended the film itself and have become popular in their own right. These soundtracks have been so successful that they have topped music charts and have been enjoyed by people who have not even seen the movies. In this section, we will explore some of the soundtracks that have become popular in their own right.

• The Sound of Music (1965)
  • The soundtrack of this musical film, composed by Richard Rodgers, has been a huge success. It includes popular songs like “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” and “The Sound of Music.” The soundtrack has been a bestseller for decades and has been re-released several times.
• Saturday Night Fever (1977)
  • The disco-themed film, starring John Travolta, had an iconic soundtrack that included disco classics like “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” and “Disco Inferno.” The soundtrack was a commercial success and has been certified 15 times platinum by the RIAA.
• Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
  • The soundtrack of this Marvel superhero film features classic rock and pop songs from the 1970s and 1980s. The soundtrack includes popular songs like “Hooked on a Feeling,” “Go All the Way,” and “I’m Not in Love.” The soundtrack was a huge success and debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart.
• La La Land (2016)
  • This romantic musical film features an original score by Justin Hurwitz and a number of original songs. The soundtrack includes popular songs like “City of Stars,” “Another Day of Sun,” and “Another Night.” The soundtrack was a critical and commercial success and won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Score.
• The Greatest Showman (2017)
  • This musical film, starring Hugh Jackman, features original songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. The soundtrack includes popular songs like “This Is Me,” “The Greatest Show,” and “Rewrite the Stars.” The soundtrack was a commercial success and has been certified double platinum by the RIAA.

These are just a few examples of movie soundtracks that have become popular in their own right. The power of music to transcend boundaries and connect with people is evident in the enduring popularity of these soundtracks.

Soundtracks that Influenced Pop Culture

• Cultural impact of movie soundtracks
  • The Beatles and their film music
    • “A Hard Day’s Night” and “Help!”
    • The influence of The Beatles on popular music
  • John Williams and his iconic film scores
    • “Star Wars,” “Jurassic Park,” and “Harry Potter”
    • The lasting impact of Williams’ music on film
  • Quentin Tarantino and his use of music in storytelling
    • “Pulp Fiction” and “Reservoir Dogs”
    • The impact of Tarantino’s music choices on the film industry
  • The rise of movie soundtracks as a commercial success
    • The “Titanic” soundtrack and its global impact
    • The resurgence of vinyl soundtracks and their popularity among millennials and Gen Z

Crafting the Perfect Soundtrack

The Role of Music in Film

Music plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall cinematic experience. It helps to set the tone, evoke emotions, and create a sense of atmosphere. The role of music in film is not just limited to providing background noise but goes beyond that.

• Establishing the Tone: Music can help establish the tone of a scene. It can make the audience feel relaxed, tense, or even scared. For instance, the iconic theme music of Jaws creates a sense of fear and anxiety before the shark even appears on screen.
• Enhancing Emotions: Music can also enhance the emotions portrayed on screen. A sad scene can become even more emotional with the right music, while a happy scene can be made more joyful. The use of music in the film Schindler’s List, for example, adds to the emotional impact of the story.
• Creating Atmosphere: Music can create a sense of atmosphere and transport the audience to a different time and place. The use of period-specific music in movies like The Great Gatsby and The King’s Speech helps to immerse the audience in the world of the film.
• Supporting the Narrative: Music can also support the narrative by adding weight to important moments. The use of a specific song at the end of a film can leave a lasting impression on the audience and make the film more memorable.

In summary, the role of music in film is multifaceted. It can establish the tone, enhance emotions, create atmosphere, and support the narrative. The right soundtrack can elevate a film from being just another movie to a cinematic experience that stays with the audience long after the credits roll.

Collaborating with Composers and Musicians

Collaborating with composers and musicians is a crucial aspect of crafting the perfect soundtrack for a movie. The composer and the director work together to create a musical score that complements the film’s visuals and enhances the audience’s emotional experience. In some cases, the director may work with a pre-existing piece of music to create a memorable and effective soundtrack. Here are some examples of movies that have collaborated with composers and musicians to create exceptional soundtracks:

• “The Shawshank Redemption”: The film’s score was composed by Thomas Newman, who worked closely with director Frank Darabont to create a haunting and emotional soundtrack. The use of music in the film’s iconic scenes, such as the “Redemption” scene, underscores the emotional weight of the characters’ experiences and adds to the overall impact of the film.
• “Pulp Fiction”: Director Quentin Tarantino worked with composer John Barry to create a soundtrack that blended classic rock and roll with a jazzy score. The use of music in the film, particularly the opening credits, helps to establish the film’s unique tone and style, which has become iconic in the years since its release.
• “Fight Club”: Director David Fincher worked with composer Dust Brothers to create a soundtrack that blended industrial and electronic music with a more traditional orchestral score. The use of music in the film’s key scenes, such as the fight club meetings, helps to underscore the characters’ emotional states and adds to the film’s overall sense of tension and unease.
• “The Social Network”: Director David Fincher once again worked with a composer, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, to create a soundtrack that blended electronic and orchestral music. The use of music in the film, particularly during the opening scene, helps to establish the film’s tone and style, which is all about the digital world and the rise of social media.
• “Interstellar”: Director Christopher Nolan worked with composer Hans Zimmer to create a soundtrack that blended orchestral music with electronic sounds and ambient noise. The use of music in the film, particularly during the space travel scenes, helps to create a sense of awe and wonder, while also underscoring the emotional weight of the characters’ experiences.

Overall, collaborating with composers and musicians is a crucial aspect of crafting the perfect soundtrack for a movie. By working closely with the composer, the director can ensure that the music complements the visuals and enhances the audience’s emotional experience. The examples above show how different directors and composers have collaborated to create exceptional soundtracks that have become iconic in the years since their release.

Selecting the Right Songs for the Film

When it comes to creating a soundtrack for a film, selecting the right songs is crucial. The music should complement the visuals and enhance the overall experience for the audience. Here are some factors to consider when selecting songs for a film soundtrack:

• Genre: The genre of the film can play a big role in determining the type of music that should be included in the soundtrack. For example, a romantic comedy might benefit from a light and playful soundtrack, while a horror movie might require something more ominous and suspenseful.
• Mood: The mood of the film is another important factor to consider. The music should help set the tone and atmosphere for each scene, whether it’s tense and dramatic or joyful and uplifting.
• Theme: The soundtrack should also reflect the themes of the film. For example, if the movie is about rebellion and standing up for what you believe in, the music should convey those ideas.
• Timing: The timing of the music is also important. The songs should be placed at the right moments in the film to enhance the emotional impact and keep the audience engaged.
• Cultural relevance: The soundtrack should also consider the cultural relevance of the film. It should be relatable to the audience and appeal to their musical tastes.

By taking these factors into account, filmmakers can create a soundtrack that perfectly complements the visuals and enhances the overall viewing experience.

FAQs

1. What makes a movie soundtrack great?

A great movie soundtrack is one that complements the visuals and storytelling of the film, while also standing on its own as a musical work. It should have a diverse range of songs that fit the mood and tone of the movie, and should be carefully curated to create a cohesive and immersive experience for the viewer.

2. What are some movies with iconic soundtracks?

Some movies with iconic soundtracks include “The Godfather” (1972), which features a memorable score by Nino Rota and classic songs like “I Got You (I Feel Good)” by James Brown, “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994), which includes songs like “Hope” by Colin Hay and “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd, and “Pulp Fiction” (1994), which features a mix of surf rock, funk, and classic soul tracks.

3. Are there any recent movies with great soundtracks?

Yes, there are many recent movies with great soundtracks. For example, “La La Land” (2016) features a original score by Justin Hurwitz and includes catchy songs like “City of Stars” and “Another Day of Sun”. “Baby Driver” (2017) is known for its innovative use of music, with a soundtrack that seamlessly blends original score and popular songs to drive the plot. “The Social Network” (2010) also has a great soundtrack, featuring a mix of indie rock and electronic music to capture the zeitgeist of the early 2000s.

4. How do movies with great soundtracks enhance the viewing experience?

Movies with great soundtracks can enhance the viewing experience by adding depth and emotion to the storytelling. They can create a mood or atmosphere, underscore key moments, and even provide commentary on the themes of the film. A well-curated soundtrack can also help to establish the time period and setting of the movie, and can even become a character in its own right.

5. Can a movie have a bad soundtrack?

Yes, a movie can have a bad soundtrack if the music does not complement the visuals and storytelling of the film. A poorly chosen soundtrack can be distracting and take the viewer out of the experience. It can also make the movie feel disjointed and inconsistent, and can even ruin the overall impact of the film.

Top 20 Movie Soundtracks of all Time