Soundtracks That Were Better Than the Movies They Came From

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Soundtracks That Were Better Than the Movies They Came From

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Christian Wiedeck, M.Sc.

1. Batman Forever (1995)

1. Batman Forever (1995) (image credits: wikimedia)
1. Batman Forever (1995) (image credits: wikimedia)

The soundtrack for *Batman Forever* is a stunning collection of hits that managed to eclipse the film’s mixed reception. U2’s “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me” and Seal’s “Kiss From a Rose” became anthems of the ’90s, topping charts worldwide. The soundtrack reached the number one spot on the Billboard 200 and bagged multiple Grammy Awards, highlighting its immense popularity. On the other hand, the movie was criticized for its over-the-top neon visuals and infamous costume choices, particularly the much-discussed Bat-nipples. Despite the film’s shortcomings, the soundtrack remains a beloved piece of music history, resonating with audiences and maintaining its cultural relevance.

2. The Bodyguard (1992)

2. The Bodyguard (1992) (image credits: unsplash)
2. The Bodyguard (1992) (image credits: unsplash)

Whitney Houston’s powerful rendition of “I Will Always Love You” from *The Bodyguard* is one of the most iconic ballads in music history. The soundtrack sold over 45 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time. While the film is often remembered for its cheesy plot and ’90s clichés, the music remains timeless and emotionally resonant. Houston’s vocal performance elevated the soundtrack, overshadowing the film’s narrative and turning it into a legendary piece of pop culture. The music’s impact continues to be felt, proving that sometimes a great soundtrack can outshine the movie it accompanies.

3. Garden State (2004)

3. Garden State (2004) (image credits: pixabay)
3. Garden State (2004) (image credits: pixabay)

The soundtrack for *Garden State* was meticulously curated by director and star Zach Braff, introducing audiences to artists like The Shins and Frou Frou. This collection of indie tracks won a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media, capturing the essence of the early 2000s indie scene. While the film received mixed reviews, the music became a defining element, evoking nostalgia and emotion. The soundtrack’s ability to resonate with listeners and evoke a sense of longing has kept its popularity alive, making it a lasting symbol of the film’s cultural impact.

4. Purple Rain (1984)

4. Purple Rain (1984) (image credits: unsplash)
4. Purple Rain (1984) (image credits: unsplash)

Prince’s *Purple Rain* soundtrack is a masterpiece, featuring timeless tracks like “When Doves Cry” and “Let’s Go Crazy.” The music showcases Prince at the peak of his creative powers, solidifying his status as a musical genius. Although the film has a cult following, it essentially serves as a long music video for the album. The emotional depth and musical brilliance of the soundtrack far surpass the film’s narrative, making it a classic that continues to influence artists and listeners alike. The legacy of the soundtrack endures, proving its superiority over the film.

5. Judgment Night (1993)

5. Judgment Night (1993) (image credits: pixabay)
5. Judgment Night (1993) (image credits: pixabay)

The *Judgment Night* soundtrack is a groundbreaking fusion of rap and rock, featuring collaborations like Helmet and House of Pain, as well as Cypress Hill and Sonic Youth. This genre-defining album stands in stark contrast to the forgettable action-thriller it accompanied. The innovative sound captured the spirit of the early ’90s and influenced numerous artists and genres. The soundtrack’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend diverse musical styles, creating a lasting impact that continues to resonate with fans and music enthusiasts.

6. Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009)

6. Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009) (image credits: wikimedia)
6. Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009) (image credits: wikimedia)

The *Twilight Saga: New Moon* soundtrack boasts an impressive lineup of artists, including Bon Iver, Thom Yorke, and Muse. The music creates a moody and atmospheric listening experience, often described as more emotionally complex than the film itself. Even those who are not fans of the Twilight franchise found themselves captivated by the soundtrack, which has gained a dedicated following. The album’s ability to evoke feelings of longing and introspection has solidified its place as a standout in film soundtracks, overshadowing the movie’s narrative.

7. Romeo + Juliet (1996)

7. Romeo + Juliet (1996) (image credits: pixabay)
7. Romeo + Juliet (1996) (image credits: pixabay)

The soundtrack for *Romeo + Juliet* is a bold and eclectic mix, featuring artists like Radiohead, Garbage, and The Cardigans. The film’s stylized approach to Shakespeare’s classic tale is matched by the raw emotion of its soundtrack. Each song captures the essence of teenage heartbreak and passion, making it a defining collection for the ’90s generation. While the film has its merits, the soundtrack stands out as a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting the music’s lasting impact over the years.

8. Singles (1992)

8. Singles (1992) (image credits: unsplash)
8. Singles (1992) (image credits: unsplash)

*Singles* serves as a grunge time capsule, featuring tracks from iconic bands like Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice in Chains. The film itself is often regarded as mediocre, but the soundtrack encapsulates the essence of Seattle’s music scene in the early ’90s. The songs not only defined a generation but also helped propel the grunge movement into the mainstream. The soundtrack remains a beloved collection for fans, highlighting the music’s lasting impact and cultural significance.

9. Space Jam (1996)

9. Space Jam (1996) (image credits: wikimedia)
9. Space Jam (1996) (image credits: wikimedia)

The *Space Jam* soundtrack features R. Kelly’s “I Believe I Can Fly,” which became a massive hit despite its controversial legacy today. The album also includes tracks from Seal, Coolio, and Quad City DJs, making it a party classic. While the film is remembered for its chaotic blend of animation and live-action, the music had real chart power and cultural significance. The soundtrack’s ability to transcend the film’s narrative has made it a nostalgic favorite for many, showcasing the power of music to outshine its cinematic counterpart.

10. The Great Gatsby (2013)

10. The Great Gatsby (2013) (image credits: unsplash)
10. The Great Gatsby (2013) (image credits: unsplash)

Executive produced by Jay-Z, *The Great Gatsby* soundtrack blends ’20s glam with modern musical styles. Featuring artists like Lana Del Rey, Florence + The Machine, and Beyoncé x Andre 3000, the soundtrack creates a unique auditory experience that complements the film’s lavish visuals. While the film received mixed reviews, the soundtrack has been praised for its innovative approach and emotional depth. The music captures the essence of the story, making it a standout element of the film, and proving that sometimes, the soundtrack can be the true star of the show.

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