The actors or film compositions of shows and movies are undeniably important to making it successful, but another factor I find underrated is the inclusion of a good and fitting soundtrack. It can make a scene that much more memorable because what we hear is recognizable and loved. It evokes more emotion, contributes to how we view a certain character, and can give us a different perspective on what’s happening. Here are some scenes that hit so much harder all because of a good song.Â
“Heartstopper” (Season 3 Episode 4 — TW: mention of ED)Â
Heartstopper is a coming of age following Charlie and Nick as they navigate through high school as a gay couple. Though often lighthearted, the newest season explores mental health a little deeper and therefore includes songs that are a bit more emotional. One of them being “Black Friday” by Tom Odell, which works to solemnly highlight Charlie’s eating disorder through its lyrics. Its light strumming of the guitar and slowness of the singer makes the scene in my opinion, ten times sadder. While Nick on the other hand handles his life without the presence of Charlie, we can feel his loneliness just a little more with the accompaniment of another great song, “Blue” by Billie Eilish.Â
“The Summer I Turned Pretty”Â
Songs can impact a scene, but it can also become an iconic feature of the entire show– such is the case with Taylor Swift and The Summer I Turned Pretty. Taylor Swift is played throughout the episodes, but one that I feel works in perfect tandem with the vibe of the show is “August.” It was played in the trailer and encapsulates the summer and beach house vibe that the show brings. It makes you want to experience a hopeless romantic summer like the main character, Belly, and it makes the sunny seasons feel extra nostalgic.
“To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before”Â
Another Jenny Han classic with a good soundtrack. If you’ve read the book or watched the first movie, you know the hottub scene. When Lara Jean and Peter Kavinsky finally realize their fake relationship had inevitably caused real feelings to develop, they confess on their ski trip. This beloved trope makes you kick your feet in excitement even more because of the song, “Lovers” by Anna North. This song is one of those you can’t listen to without thinking of the movie. It makes you reminisce on the cheesy high school romance, pushing you to rewatch the whole trilogy.Â
“New Girl” (Season 6 finale)Â
The elevator moment where roommates Nick and Jess finally find another and confess their shared feelings is just that scene. And this is partly credited to the song played during it, “Green Light,” by Lorde. Lorde’s songs alone capture a pure rush of excitement, just like this scene after countless seasons of waiting for the two to get back together. The built up nervousness as Nick and Jess rush up and down the stairs and keep missing their moment, makes the scene so much more anticipated, and it is perfected with the song right at their kiss.