Title: The Resurgence of the Movie Soundtrack: A Nostalgic Journey Through Music and Film
After watching “I Saw the TV Glow,” the new film from director Jane Schoenbrun, viewers are not only captivated by the surreal story but also left craving the incredible soundtrack that accompanies it. The film, which follows two high schoolers in the 1990s obsessed with a TV show called “The Pink Opaque,” draws on horror, ’90s television, and Schoenbrun’s personal experience coming out as transgender. However, it’s the music that truly elevates the viewing experience.
Featuring artists like yeule, King Woman, Sloppy Jane, and Phoebe Bridgers, the soundtrack of “I Saw the TV Glow” is a mix of hypnotic covers and original songs that perfectly capture the essence of the film. From the emotional swell of Caroline Polachek’s “Starburned and Unkissed” to the throwback rock of Proper’s “The 90s,” the soundtrack is a nostalgic trip back to the heyday of movie soundtracks.
Director Jane Schoenbrun’s intention was to create a “great teen angst soundtrack” that would resonate with audiences and evoke a sense of nostalgia. They were inspired by classic soundtracks like “Donnie Darko,” “The Royal Tenenbaums,” and “Garden State,” which played a significant role in shaping their love for music and film.
The resurgence of the movie soundtrack is evident in recent releases like the “Barbie” soundtrack, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” soundtrack, and the Apple TV+ series “The New Look,” which feature modern artists covering classic tunes. With Hollywood once again embracing the power of music to enhance storytelling, the soundtrack has become a vital component of the movie-watching experience.
For Schoenbrun, curating the soundtrack for “I Saw the TV Glow” was a creative endeavor that allowed them to collaborate with talented artists and create a mixtape of songs that perfectly complemented the film. The process of selecting the songs, listening to submissions, and arranging the tracklist was a labor of love that ultimately paid off in creating a cohesive and immersive musical experience.
As audiences rediscover the magic of movie soundtracks, it’s clear that these musical accompaniments have the power to transport viewers back to the world of the film and evoke a sense of nostalgia and emotion. The soundtrack of “I Saw the TV Glow” is not just a collection of songs but a vital part of the film’s identity, reminding viewers of the power of music in storytelling.
In a time where streaming has reshaped the music industry, the resurgence of the movie soundtrack offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the art of curated music and rediscover the joy of a well-crafted mixtape that enhances the cinematic experience. The soundtrack is not just background noise but a key player in the storytelling process, inviting audiences to immerse themselves fully in the world of the film.
