List: best movie soundtracks ever! Part 1

Singles (1992)

Why it is awesome: because the grunge era of fashion/music/lifestyle was so pervasive that a major motion picture company made a movie about it. Take the music and the Seattle location out of the movie, and it’s a piece of crap. It’s the Empire Records syndrome: when a soundtrack outlives and outshines an otherwise crappy movie.

Standout tracks: “Waiting For Somebody” by Paul Westerberg; “Breathe” by Pearl Jam

Magnolia (1999)

Why it is awesome: The whole movie was actually based on the lyrics to one of the songs. And Aimee Mann can write the most beautiful, haunting songs. The scene with the entire cast singing along to “Wise Up” is cinematic genius.

Standout tracks: “Momemtum”; “Wise Up”

Shortbus (2006)

John Cameron Mitchell compiled a collection from some of indie’s “it” bands without it turning into a Zach Braff approved soundtrack. Of course, I am ignoring some of the ridiculous drivel performed by the actors.

Standout Tracks: “If You Fall” by Azure Ray; “Boys of Melody” by The Hidden Cameras

Go (1999)

Intruduced us to the fabulous one hit wonders of the band Len, and included the whole range of pop rock to dance. It truly understands the meaning of quality pop music. Good music for an underappreciated movie.

Standout Tracks: “Steal My Sunshine” by Len; “New” by No Doubt

Donnie Darko (2001)

Why it’s awesome: Another fantastic thing about this movie is that it is set in 1988. The culturural references and fashions are actually accurate, but subtle, and not over the top like The Wedding Singer. Also awesome? There is really no reason for the movie to take place in 1998. But who can forget Sparkle Motion performing to Duran Duran and the slo-mo school sequence set to “Head Over Heels”.

Standout Tracks: “The Killing Moon” by Echo & The Bunnymen; “Love Will Tear Us Apart” by Joy Division; “Never Tear Us Apart” by INXS

more to come!