10 Best Original Songs Written for A24 Movies

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As a cinephile with a knack for delving into the depths of film scores, I must say that these soundtracks are nothing short of exceptional. Each track, carefully chosen or meticulously composed, adds an extra layer to the narrative, enhancing the viewing experience and leaving a lasting impression.

The significance of settings, dialogue, and characters’ physical expressions in making a film easy to understand cannot be overstated. Moreover, soundtracks serve as a vital form of expression, enhancing elements such as the tension between characters or the atmosphere of a particular scene. For instance, A24 Studios has produced remarkable original music for films like “Babygirl”. Therefore, it might be an excellent opportunity to explore their top original songs.

The chosen tracks in each movie serve to illustrate and underscore A24’s unique approach to utilizing music within their films, emphasizing both their significance and impact on conveying the film’s core themes effectively.

10
“Leash” – Sky Ferreira

‘Babygirl’ (2024)

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In a thought-provoking, sensual thriller, baby girl observes actress Nicole Kidman, who is known worldwide, and Harris Dickinson, a fast-rising star, joining forces. The story primarily revolves around the intense romantic entanglement between CEO Romy Mathis (played by Kidman) and her young intern Samuel (Dickinson). As their relationship unfolds, they grapple with intricate feelings arising from their age gap, their professional dynamics at Romy’s company, and the ever-present danger of their clandestine world being exposed.

A Multi-Layered Mirror of Babygirl’s Message

Following a contentious music contract, Sky Ferreira, known for her alt-pop genre, was personally selected by director Halina Reijn to contribute to the movie’s soundtrack. In an interview with Vogue, Reijn disclosed that she believed Sky’s songs captured the essence of “the balance between refined femininity and the hidden darkness”, a key aspect of the film. Adorned with potent synths, the electro-rock track effectively mirrors the film’s examination of desire and ruin, immersing listeners in the shadowy, pleasure-seeking universe inhabited by the characters.

9
“Compress/Repress” – Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross

‘Challengers’ (2024)

As a movie enthusiast, I’m excited to share that I recently came across a gripping tale about tennis titled “Challengers.” In this film, the charismatic Zendaya joins forces with Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor. The story unfolds when my friends Art (Faist) and Patrick (O’Connor) cross paths with the up-and-coming tennis sensation, Tashi Duncan (Zendaya), following one of her matches. Their encounter sparks a deep connection among them, as they all share a passion for tennis – not just as a sport, but also as a means to draw closer to Tashi.

An Emotionally Volatile, Electric Explosion

A fast-paced dance soundtrack accompanies the film, capturing the intensity of the sport itself and the adrenaline rush experienced by the players themselves. “Compress/Repress,” however, is a clear standout among the energetic productions offered by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. The thumping instrumental is accompanied by an instructive chorus that pulls the listener into a blissful trance, the lyrics are a tongue-in-cheek assertion of Art, Tashi, and Patrick’s dependency on another and their shared experience in the realm of tennis.

8
“Skin” – Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barro

‘Ex Machina’ (2015)

In the movie titled “Ex Machina“, the character Caleb Smith (Domhall Gleeson), who has just won a contest, visits his CEO and boss, Nathan Bateman (Oscar Isaac). As he settles into the opulent surroundings, Caleb starts to understand Nathan’s plans. Upon meeting Ava (Alicia Vikander), an advanced robot, Caleb is tasked with performing the Turing test, a process that significantly impacts everyone involved. Known for its compelling exploration of artificial intelligence, “Ex Machina” is highly recommended viewing.

A Mesmerizing Alarm

As a movie enthusiast immersed in the gripping narrative of “Skin”, I found myself mirroring the film’s unfolding drama through its soundtrack. The song initially whispered softly, much like a subtle hint, yet it steadily amplified, reaching a crescendo that was as raw and intense as Trent Reznor or Atticus Finch’s best work. This climactic outburst served to underscore the ominous chill of artificial intelligence, a chilling premonition that echoed the sinister turn events took once Caleb stepped into Nathan’s opulent mansion.

7
“Party, Crash” – Colin Stetson

‘Hereditary’ (2018)

Among the most unsettling movies in recent years is the debut film by director Ari Aster titled “Hereditary“. This movie invites viewers into the household of the Graham family. Following the death of matriarch Ellen (played by Pat Barnett Carr), daughter Annie (Toni Collette), her husband Steve (Gabriel Byrne), and children Peter (Alex Wolf) and Charlie (Milly Shapiro) try to cope and move on. However, a series of unfortunate events unfold, leading to a strange and unforgettable ending.

A Haunting Chase

In the spirit of the chilling moment depicted in the movie “Party, Crash,” this song is eerie from the get-go. A subdued drumbeat forms the foundation beneath a growling roar, mirroring the tension and terror of the scene. As Peter hastens to bring his sister Charlie to a hospital following an unforeseen allergic reaction, the music builds up, reaching its peak in a cacophony reminiscent of a swarm of locusts, symbolizing the chaos that ensues after their tragic journey together.

6
“Hot Girl” – Charli XCX

‘Bodies, Bodies, Bodies’ (2022)

The movie titled Bodies, Bodies, Bodies features popular actors such as Amandla Stenberg, Rachel Sennott, and MyHa’la, delivering a unique blend of humor and unsettling realism. Set in a secluded mansion among a group of wealthy friends, the film starts with an ordinary “hurricane party” but quickly spirals into a gruesome, chaotic murder mystery.

A Self-Indulgent, Thumping Cult Classic

In a fresh and engaging rewording: Charli XCX’s song “Hot Girl” in an A24 film is one of the most striking performances, showcasing multiple character traits. It exudes brazenness, self-assuredness, and a shimmering dose of self-centeredness. The song playfully acknowledges the characters’ self-absorption with a knowing nudge, all while immersing us in the unbridled joy they feel at the start of a party. For longtime fans, this standout track not only echoes her “Vroom Vroom” EP but also hints at the direction for her upcoming 2024 project, “Brat”, which promises to capture attention voraciously.

5
“Apo Mesa Pethamenos” – Danai Stratigopoulou

‘The Lobster’ (2015)

In this rephrased version:

A Sorrowful Yet Splendid Accompaniment

In this captivating hunting scene, a composition by Danai Stratigopoulou from Greece adds an enchanting ambiance. Swirling piano melodies surround the active hunters, providing a haunting yet luminous backdrop to the turmoil. The lyrics of the song express deep sorrow over a lost love. Titled “Dead Inside,” the emotions portrayed in Stratigopoulou’s melancholic performance echo the pursuit and longing for affection and connection felt by the hotel guests.

4
“Under Pressure (Remix)” – Oliver Coates, Queen & David Bowie

‘Aftersun’ (2022)

Using personal anecdotes as inspiration, director Charlotte Wells launched her directing career in 2022 with the release of the movie “Aftersun“. This production introduces 11-year-old Sophie Patterson (Frankie Corio) and her father Calum (Paul Mescal), who is around 30 years old. During their vacation in Turkey, they strive to have a good time, but the film subtly depicts their struggles. As they engage in enjoyable activities, Sophie discerns Calum’s true emotional condition, his attempts at personal growth, and the pretenses he maintains. A poignant exploration of childhood recollections and parent-child relationships, “Aftersun” is a deeply affecting film.

A Memorable, Morose Rendition

The muddled tune, the solo singing, and the recurring phrases such as “offer love” and “our final dance” all serve to underscore the sorrowful ending of Sophie and Calum’s holiday. This music not only mirrors but amplifies the emotional intensity of the scene, allowing viewers to experience, rather than just see, the poignant disintegration of their trip and its effect on Sophie. Furthermore, the shift from a cheerful, upbeat melody to a subdued, eerie ending coincides with Sophie’s tear-inducing realization.

3
“Starburned and Unkissed” – Caroline Polachek

‘I Saw the TV Glow’’ (2024)

The TV show “I Saw the TV Glow” follows the journey of Owen (Justice Smith) and Maddy (Brigette Lundy-Paine), two teenagers who find comfort in the superhero drama “The Pink Opaque“. This series, about two time-manipulating teen girls battling a ruthless villain, becomes their sanctuary amidst turbulent adolescence marked by abuse and loss. Unfortunately, the show is canceled prematurely, causing them to drift apart. However, they reconnect later on, leading to a series of profound realizations about their lives and experiences.

A Passionate, Powerful Lament

In addition to artists such as Yeule, Snail Male, and Phoebe Bridgers, Caroline Polachek lent her talents to the soundtrack of the movie with the grunge-inspired track “Starburned and Unkissed.” Originally composed for her latest album “Desire, I Want to Turn Into You,” Polachek felt that this song would be a great fit for the film.

In this particular scene, Owen is walking along a school corridor, and the music beautifully conveys feelings of loneliness, which resonate even more strongly in our increasingly digital era. Although the song primarily addresses the end of a romantic bond, its lyrics can also be interpreted as reflecting anger or disconnection, themes that are prevalent in director Jane Schoenbrun’s filmography, and may represent experiences like disassociation or gender dysphoria.

2
“Rain Song” – Emile Mosseri & Han Yeri

‘Minari’ (2020)

The film Minari centers around the Yi family, a South Korean family residing in California who decide to relocate to Arkansas. Jacob (Steven Yeun), the hopeful father, asserts that the land is fertile enough to cultivate Korean produce for sale in Dallas.

Instead, Monica (Han Ye-ri) expresses regret over their move, cherishing memories of city life and the convenience of a hospital close by for their son David (Alan Kim). David’s heart condition necessitates cautious restrictions from his parents, while he also witnesses the occasional arguments between his parents and sister Anne (Noel Kate Cho). This delicate blend of hope and tension creates an endearing yet confrontational portrayal of the immigrant experience in the United States.

A Touching Memory of Family

At the end of the movie, the song titled “Rain Song” is played during the credits. Although rain is often associated with sadness or gloom in common understanding, this song carries an optimistic tone. Given that a significant portion of the film focuses on the family’s farming endeavors and the challenges they face as a result, the song functions as a comforting symbol that rain signals a fresh start. Han Ye-ri beautifully performs this uplifting melody, which was originally intended to be Monica’s lullaby for David, emphasizing the Yi family’s resilience to viewers.

1
“This Is a Life” – Son Lux, Mitski, David Byrne

‘Everything, Everywhere, All at Once’ (2022)

Praised by numerous critics as the top movie of 2022, “Everything Everywhere All at Once” centers around the character of Evelyn Quan Wang, portrayed by Michelle Yeoh, a Chinese immigrant who fled to America with her husband Waymond (Ke Huy Quan). Struggling with issues in her relationship with her daughter Joy (Stephanie Hsu) and facing the impending scrutiny of the IRS, Evelyn finds herself overwhelmed by her duties. However, when an enigmatic figure alerts her to a dangerous entity’s ominous plans, Evelyn breaks free from the monotony that has plagued her life and embarks on a thrilling journey through multiple universes.

The Meaning, or Lack Thereof, of Life, Explored

In addition to boasting one of the top screenplays of recent times, this film also offers an outstanding soundtrack, crafted by Son Lux. The song “This Is a Life,” a collaboration between Mitski and David Byrne, skillfully explores themes of fate, free will, and their interplay, much like the Wang family does. With a sensitive touch, it captures the profound impact choices and free will can have, even in the darkest moments life presents. Similarly to the characters portrayed, Mitski and Byrne seem to agree that life is a flexible, transformative journey, and the decisions we make along the way hold more power than we might initially think.

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2024-12-23 02:03