Soundtracks have always kinda been my secret tour guides to a movie’s universe. I’m not exactly sure how to put it, but they take me on these wild, emotional rollercoasters that’ll stick with me long after the credits roll. Over the years, as I’ve cozied up on the couch, TV glowing, I’ve lost count of how many times a movie’s soundtrack whisked me away. I want to try and share some of my favorite soundtracks from recent years—the ones that resonated with me long after I left the theater, even if I did hum along a bit off-key… okay, maybe more than a bit.
La La Land: A Symphony of Dreams
Starting with “La La Land.” Oh, boy, this one! The first time I watched it, there I was on the couch, snacks at the ready, and my heart was primed for something special. And the music? Just pure, unfiltered magic! Justin Hurwitz somehow managed to mix golden-age Hollywood vibes with a fresh spin. “City of Stars” and “A Lovely Night” kinda just hugged my heart in the best way. These weren’t just notes playing; they were dreams turned into sound, emotions wrapped in melody. I must admit, I maybe wiped away a tiny tear—or two…or five.
Black Panther: Rhythms of Royalty
Then we have “Black Panther,” and wow, this one really hit the jackpot with its soundtrack. Usually, superhero movies aren’t my jam, but this one? Let’s just say I was pleasantly blown away. Kendrick Lamar nailed it, blending hip-hop with African beats, matching the film’s celebration of culture perfectly. “All the Stars” was more than just a song to me; it felt like an anthem you could almost feel in your bones. It sparked this unexpected sense of pride for Wakanda, y’know, like it was a place you could reach out and touch.
The Greatest Showman: A Theatrical Triumph
And then there’s “The Greatest Showman.” Oh, the memories! Imagine watching this one, wrapped in a blanket with hot cocoa, as raindrops tap on the window. The music there isn’t just tracks on a playlist; it’s the kind you vibe with, loud and proud (singing along, off-key and all). Songs like “This Is Me” and “Rewrite the Stars” were written by Pasek and Paul, and they just manage to speak to that core part of anyone who dares to dream. This soundtrack had a way of worming its way into my soul, no joke.
A Star is Born: Emotion on Display
“A Star is Born” is just something else entirely. I went in thinking I’d get a decent movie, and I walked out with profound echoes in my head. The raw emotion from Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, especially in “Shallow,” was just… wow. I tried hitting that big note (let’s keep that attempt between us, though). The music wasn’t just art; it took us through a journey of love, loss, and rebirth in a way that still stirs up the feels in me.
Joker: Haunting Elegance
And then there’s “Joker.” The soundtrack here is like a musical dive into a dark, yet strikingly beautiful world. Hildur Guðnadóttir composed a score that’s haunting and fascinating. Watching Joaquin Phoenix’s Arthur Fleck dance down those stairs with that spine-chilling melody playing is eerie yet feels so perfectly in tune with the chaos that’s both terrifying and so very human.
Frozen II: A Return to Enchantment
Naturally, I can’t skip over Disney’s “Frozen II.” This soundtrack brings magic, like “Into the Unknown,” which invites you to step beyond what you know. Of course, “Show Yourself” turned my place into an impromptu concert hall. Yep, it happened. The songs bring you into this whimsical world full of adventure and wonder, taking reality along for the ride.
Tenet: Thrilling Complexity
“Tenet” was a mind-boggler, right? Christopher Nolan never settles for anything less, and Ludwig Göransson matched the complexity of the narrative with an intense score that matched the film’s vibe. I sat there, trying to keep up with the plot twists, with this music keeping my heart racing all the while. It’s intricate and sophisticated and leaves you thinking about it long after the movie’s done.
Soul: A Jazzy Ode to Existence
Pixar’s “Soul” was a refreshing surprise on days when life felt a bit heavy. Jon Batiste, Trent Reznor, and Atticus Ross created a soundtrack that breathed life into existential musings. It was equal parts jazz and soothing harmonies, reflecting the beauty of living. Every time “Epiphany” played, it got me reminiscing about life’s simple pleasures. It honestly left a gentle warmth in its wake.
Encanto: A Celebration in Sound
Last but not least, there’s “Encanto.” It’s vibrant and alive, a real musical celebration. Lin-Manuel Miranda crafted songs that capture the soul of family and individuality. Every time “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” plays, I can’t help but break into a little dance. These tunes have stuck by me like a fond memory you love to revisit, bringing cheer and warmth.
So, that’s my list, my personal little musical companions. These soundtracks have kept me company during rainy days or on long road trips, painting silence with their melodies and filling moments with their film magic. They each offer something so special and creative, giving breath to the tales we hold close. And for a moment, these stories and their tunes let us claim them as our own.