The Best Movie Soundtracks: Music That Makes the Film
exploring some of my favourite movie soundtracks and scores !
When you think of your all time favourite films, chances are the soundtrack plays a big part in what makes them special! For me, I am OBSESSED with Twilight (2008), and even though I love everything about the debatably ‘bad’ movie, the right music can set the mood, enhance the story, and even become as memorable as the film itself. Without the iconic baseball scene with Supermassive Black Hole playing, or Roslyn in New Moon (2009), the saga wouldn’t be the same. The soundtrack is more than just background noise—it’s a key part of what makes the Twilight experience unforgettable.
In today’s post, we’re taking a look at some of the best soundtracks that have defined great cinema and added something extra to the movie-watching experience.
Also just a small disclaimer - these are my personal favourite soundtracks and scores, so if you think the ‘best’ one isn’t included - don’t worry, this isn’t an objective list, just my opinion :)
10.
Coraline (2009)
In honour of it’s 15th year anniversary, what other way to start this list off than with Coraline (2009), a stunning example of how a well-crafted soundtrack can elevate a film's eerie and whimsical atmosphere. Composed by Bruno Coulais, the score perfectly captures the film's blend of dark fantasy and adventure. With its hauntingly beautiful melodies and inventive use of choral arrangements, the music adds a layer of magic and mystery to Coraline’s world. Tracks like ‘Exploration’, where Coraline explores the Pink Palace for the first time, and ‘Dreaming’, the eerie opening scene, contribute to the film’s unsettling yet enchanting mood, making the soundtrack an integral part of the film’s unique charm. It’s not just background music, but a key element that brings Coraline’s whimsical journey to life whilst elevating the atmosphere.
9.
Interstellar (2014)
Interstellar (2014) is actually the reason I was inspired to make this list! Having written an essay on it for my Film Music module at university, I feel very passionate about Hans Zimmer’s iconic score for this movie, and truly believe that it is some of his best work.
Zimmer’s score, with its sweeping orchestral pieces and minimalistic elements, beautifully complements the film’s grand exploration of space and time. The use of the organ in cues like ‘Cornfield Chase’ and ‘Stay’ adds a sense of both urgency and introspection, aligning perfectly with the film’s themes of love, sacrifice, and the unknown. The music not only intensifies the visual spectacle but also deepens the emotional impact, making the soundtrack an unforgettable part of the Interstellar experience.
8.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
The Lord of the Rings is one of my favourite franchises of all time, books and films. It would feel wrong to not include at least one of it’s movies on this list, their scores being both undeniably recognisable and beautiful, since the day the films were released.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) boasts a soundtrack by Howard Shore that is just as epic and immersive as the film itself. Shore’s score masterfully weaves together sweeping orchestral themes with haunting choral elements, capturing the impressiveness and depth of Middle-earth. Iconic pieces like ‘The Shire’ and ‘Concerning Hobbits’ (from the extended edition - a must watch by the way) with their gentle, nostalgic melodies, and ‘The Bridge of Khazad-dûm’, with its intense and dramatic tones, elevate the film’s storytelling and emotional resonance. The music not only underscores the film’s epic quest but also enhances its rich world-building, making the soundtrack an integral and memorable part of the Fellowship of the Ring experience.
7.
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
I think that the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy is widely regarded as some of the Marvel movies with the best soundtracks, so of course I had to include one here. I opted to choose the first, but the two sequels are also just as great.
Unlike the rest of the films on this list so far, Guardians of the Galaxy’s soundtrack is often regarded as iconic not from the film’s score, but rather because it features a standout soundtrack known as the ‘Awesome Mix Vol. 1’, curated by James Gunn and featuring a nostalgic blend of '70s and '80s hits. This collection of songs, including tracks like ‘Hooked on a Feeling’ by Blue Swede and ‘Come and Get Your Love’ by Redbone, perfectly captures the film’s playful and adventurous spirit. The eclectic mix not only provides a vibrant backdrop to the action but also helps define the personalities of the quirky characters. The soundtrack’s upbeat and memorable tunes make it more than just a musical accompaniment—they become a character in their own right, adding an extra layer of fun and energy to the film.
6.
Pulp Fiction (1994)
Of course I had to add this. Pulp Fiction (1994) features a soundtrack that is as iconic and eclectic as the film itself. Compiled by Quentin Tarantino, the music spans a diverse range of genres, from surf rock and soul to pop and funk. Tracks like Dick Dale's ‘Misirlou’ and Kool & the Gang's ‘Jungle Boogie’ not only set the tone for the film’s dynamic and non-linear narrative but also enhance its retro, stylish vibe. The soundtrack’s carefully chosen songs become integral to the storytelling, creating memorable moments and adding a distinctive flavour to the film. Tarantino’s masterful selection of music turns the soundtrack into a defining element of Pulp Fiction, making it an unforgettable part of the cinematic experience.
5.
How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
In my opinion, HTTYD is one of the best, and most beautiful animated movies ever made, so of course I had to include it in this list.
How to Train Your Dragon (2010) features a soundtrack by John Powell that beautifully captures the film's adventurous spirit and emotional depth. Powell’s score combines powerful orchestral arrangements with evocative melodies, creating a rich, immersive experience that enhances the film’s story of friendship and bravery. Cues like ‘Test Drive’ and ‘Romantic Flight’ convey the exhilaration of dragon riding and the bond between Hiccup and Toothless. The music's sweeping and energetic themes complement the breath-taking animation and epic storytelling, making the soundtrack an essential part of what makes How to Train Your Dragon a captivating and memorable film.
4.
Alice In Wonderland (2010)
Alice in Wonderland (2010) features a whimsical and imaginative soundtrack composed by Danny Elfman, perfectly capturing the film's fantastical and surreal atmosphere. Elfman's score combines playful, ethereal melodies with grand, sweeping orchestral themes, enhancing the sense of wonder and adventure in Tim Burton’s reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s classic. Pieces like ‘Alice’s Theme’, (the scene it’s in still gives me chills to this day), and ‘The Cheshire Cat’ evoke the enchanting and often bizarre world of Wonderland, adding depth to the film's vibrant visuals and quirky characters. The soundtrack’s dynamic range—from mysterious and haunting to light-hearted and whimsical—plays a crucial role in immersing viewers in the magical and eccentric world of Alice in Wonderland.
3. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
The Royal Tenenbaums is one of my favourite Wes Anderson films, and is responsible for showing me a favourite song of mine, These Days, and so I will love it forever.
The Royal Tenenbaums (2001) features a distinctive and eclectic soundtrack curated by Mark Mothersbaugh, which perfectly complements Wes Anderson’s offbeat and whimsical film. The score blends an array of indie rock, folk, and classic tracks, with songs like ‘These Days’ by Nico and ‘Excerpts’ by Mark Mothersbaugh adding a nostalgic and introspective touch to the film's unique narrative. Each track is carefully chosen to reflect the eccentric personalities and emotional undercurrents of the Tenenbaum family, creating a musical backdrop that is as quirky and memorable as the characters themselves. The soundtrack not only enhances the film’s distinctive style but also becomes a character in its own right, contributing significantly to the overall charm and atmosphere of the movie.
2.
Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (1992)
I’ve only recently had the pleasure of watching Twin Peaks, but I knew as soon as I watched it that it was one of my favourite series of all time. Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (1992) features a haunting and atmospheric soundtrack that deepens the film’s enigmatic and unsettling tone. Composed by Angelo Badalamenti, the score revisits the moody, surreal sounds that defined the original Twin Peaks series, with tracks like ‘Laura Palmer's Theme’, which is repeated a lot throughout the show and film, and ‘Falling’ (my all time favourite), evoking a sense of mystery and melancholy. A comment under ‘Falling’ (on YouTube) perfectly encapsulates how I feel about the soundtrack: ‘One of those melodies you hear once and you'll never forget’. The music’s eerie, dreamlike quality complements David Lynch’s distinctive storytelling style, enhancing the film’s exploration of dark, hidden worlds. The soundtrack is essential to the film’s atmosphere, creating an emotional and immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll. It truly is hauntingly beautiful and magical.
1.
Twilight (2008) and Twilight New Moon (2009)
I truly don’t believe there are any other films out there I can talk about more than the Twilight Saga. I know a lot of people hate them and think they’re ‘bad’, but I believe whatever you think about the movie, you have to agree that the soundtrack is phenomenal and unbelievably iconic.
The Twilight series is known for its moody and atmospheric soundtracks that perfectly complement the films' intense emotions and supernatural themes. In Twilight (2008), the soundtrack reaches a high point with Muse’s ‘Supermassive Black Hole,’ which energises the iconic baseball scene (one of the most iconic scenes in cinema, I fear), adding a thrilling and edgy vibe that contrasts with the film's darker undertones. In The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009), the mood shifts with Bon Iver and St. Vincent’s haunting ‘Roslyn’, (my favourite song of all time), which underscores Bella’s deep sense of loss and melancholy. These songs don’t just accompany the films—they deepen the emotional resonance of pivotal scenes, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the credits roll, making the soundtracks an integral and widely iconic part of the Twilight experience.
And that’s my list!
I really enjoyed writing this and hope you enjoyed reading it, please let me know your thoughts, or some of your favourite soundtracks, and feel free to send me a DM :)
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how to train your dragon and guardians of the galaxy are soooo real!! love them both more than my family
YES lord of the rings, Httyd, brave heart, spirit, and so many others just off the top of my head.
It’s honestly to the point that if I see the soundtrack to a movie was made by Hans Zimmer, I’ll watch it even if the movie doesn’t sound interesting 😂