The music that features in a film can be as moving, essential, or memorable as any line of dialogue or actor's performance. A great soundtrack often transcends the film it first appeared in, whether it was comprised of pre-recorded songs by known artists or original tracks that went on to become long-lasting hits. Think about the last time you watched a movie; how many times did the score or a particular song evoke a specific emotion or memory?
Since 2019, film soundtracks have become as synonymous with the Top 10 charts as Ed Sheeran, Drake, or Ariana Grande. But before The Greatest Showman and A Star is Born, there have been scores that have become etched into the cultural zeitgeist because they captured moments that spoke to us long after the final credits rolled. The right song at the right moment can elevate a scene, turning a simple moment into an unforgettable experience.
Whether it’s the moody guitars of Seattle’s grunge scene that served as the backdrop for Cameron Crowe’s Singles, the euphoric trance in The Beach, or the teenage angst of British post-punk rock in Pretty in Pink, so many films would be nowhere near as good without the music that accompanied them. From Pulp Fiction to Guardians of the Galaxy, here are the 40 greatest film soundtracks of all time!
What You Will Learn
- The emotional power of film soundtracks and their role in storytelling.
- How soundtracks have evolved and influenced popular music trends.
- Key examples of iconic soundtracks that left a lasting impact on cinema and music.
- Insights into the creative processes behind memorable film scores.