5 Films With Killer Soundtracks
Even if you’re not a guitar player, or even a musician, these films will give you the inspiration to go out and start a band.
By Sarah Smith
1. CBGB
Let’s start where it all began—CBGB. This is where the American punk scene was born and will forever stand as a legendary music venue. This film is not only start-studded, but the huge amount of musicians mentioned in this film is crazy. From Blondie to the late Lou Reed, the acts to grace this stage were insanely iconic. This film not only has a great soundtrack (because the musicians who performed here were amazing), but the cast is quite impressive. Alan Rickman (yes, you read that right, Professor Snape) plays Hilly Kristal the owner and founder of CBGB. Rickman is joined by Ashley Greene, Foo Fighters’ Taylor Hawkins, and Harry Potter co-star Rupert Grint, along with many more. This film shows the beginnings of what was just a small bar in the East Village and eventually became a world-famous spot to take a shot at fame.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6JsgZU9jHY&w=640&h=390%5D
2. Killing Bono
Imagine growing up with a bunch of lads who would go on to take the world by storm. Well, Neil McCormick did just that. This film is based on the book written by McCormick himself, titled Killing Bono: I was Bono’s Doppelganger. Based on actual events, this film takes you on a journey with the McCormick brothers as they try to live up to the popularity of their childhood friends, U2. This film is heart-wrenching and funny and is a perfect film for music lovers. This film’s soundtrack is not only amazing, but the actors actually sing the songs for it. Ben Barnes, who plays Neil, sings nearly all of the songs on the album. His vocals are not only very impressive, but the soundtrack sounds like a mix between The Cure and The Clash, with a touch of U2 of course.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGCOryLwgiY&w=640&h=390%5D
3. Taking Woodstock
Almost everyone has seen the actual film shot during one of America’s most iconic concerts, Woodstock. Taking Woodstock is the behind-the-scenes action to the iconic concert. This films shows the true story of how Woodstock came to be. The 60s situations make the film funny and nostalgic for the flower children of the past. The soundtrack to this film is composed of actual music from the concert. Both the actual Woodstock movie and Taking Woodstock have killer soundtracks.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBtg3H_w4UE&w=640&h=390%5D
4. American Graffiti
American Graffiti is a perfect example of classic Americana. Typical ideas from the early 1960s include teenagers cruising in their hot rods on a summer night, chicken races, and summer love. This film has all of that plus more. Wolfman Jack narrates through the entire film and even shows up making a cameo. The film’s stars include Ron Howard, Richard Dreyfuss, Cindy Williams, and Harrison Ford. The songs chosen for this film are amazing. The best way to listen to this soundtrack is on vinyl. Also, if you loved this film, check out the sequel, More American Graffiti.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZ9Gp6Qc8LQ&w=640&h=390%5D
5. It Might Get Loud
This is the odd film of the bunch. While it is a film, being a documentary, it doesn’t really have a tangible soundtrack. The entire film is the soundtrack. This film follows legendary guitarists Jack White, Jimmy Page, and The Edge through various aspects of their creative process. The film focuses on their influences, history, and success while bringing fans in on what might be the most epic jam session ever. Even if you’re not a guitar player, or even a musician, this film still gives you the inspiration to go out and start a band. Plus, Jack White is quite a funny character.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4YvNVqf2at0&w=640&h=390%5D