Thursday, July 16, 2009

MMMMM

Music and movies go hand in hand and the greatest film makers can balance the two so perfectly that even if a film itself is wretched, there may be a scene worth salvaging because of the marriage of image and sound. So let me introduce to you ladies and gentlemen my new daily segment, Most Memorable Music Moments in Movies. (this is a working title, suggestions are welcome)


Wes Anderson's films are breeding grounds for this segment, so let me begin with The Darjeeling Limited. The undeniable Anjelica Huston says it all as she sets the scene, "Maybe we could express ourselves more fully if we say it without words." Cue The Rolling Stones, and "Play With Fire" begins to play.

The song, so full of threat and melancholy yet such a pleasing melody all at the same time, perfectly reflects the mood of the scene to a point where I found myself right in the midst of it all, sitting at that table. This set of actors, Jason Schwartzman, Adrien Brody, Owen Wilson, and Huston wore their character's emotions so strongly in their eyes, the face on shots really are silently fully expressing themselves without words. I would almost dare to say that I have never been more impressed by silent acting than by this scene.

"Play With Fire" was to me the first time I heard it, an average song by The Rolling Stones, a band I had never cared for much before. This scene placed an entirely new depth of emotion behind the song, a true human connection that causes me to become completely lost in the song and feel and undying urge to watch The Darjeeling Limited. And that my friends is excellent filmmaking.

Happy movie watching cinemaphiles of the world.

***Brianna Wellen

4 comments: