The 2024 Palme d’Or is hours away, and films like ‘Anora’, ‘The Seed of the Sacred Fig’, and ‘Emilia Pérez’ are emerging as top contenders for Cannes’ top award. But before the winners are announced, let’s take a look at the music that has accompanied this year’s festival. A well-timed needle drop can enhance a scene, reflect the film’s themes, or even comment on character arcs, and this year’s Cannes playlist features 10 earworms that have captured our attention during the 77th edition.
One standout song featured at Cannes this year is Eurythmics’ ‘Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)’, heard in Yórgos Lánthimos’ film ‘Kinds of Kindness’. The opening song sets the tone for the film, reflecting its bizarre and cruel nature, reminiscent of a Twilight Zone-style anthology. Another notable track is Fontaines D.C.’s punk anthem ‘Too Real’, featured in Andrea Arnold’s film ‘Bird’, which mirrors the character of Bug and encapsulates the film’s themes and style of blending social and magical realism.
In Coralie Fargeat’s film ‘The Substance’, choreographed workout sequences set to dance tunes create a visually striking experience that explores society’s beauty standards and misogyny. The use of Danzel’s ‘Pump It Up’ enhances the film’s message and adds to its impact. Gilles Lellouche’s ‘Amour Ouf’ features Billy Idol’s ‘Eyes Without A Face’, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the sentimental melodrama. Lou Reed’s ‘Walk On The Wild Side’ in Kirill Serebrennikov’s ‘Limonov: The Ballad’ complements the story of the Russian dissident writer and politician Eduard Limonov.
In Sean Baker’s ‘Anora’, the remix of Take That’s ‘Greatest Day’ sets a bittersweet tone for the chaotic narrative, while the inclusion of t.A.T.u.’s ‘All The Things She Said’ adds to the film’s euphoria. Coldplay’s ‘Yellow’ in ‘Bird’ captures a moment of emotional generosity, showcasing director Andrea Arnold’s talent for choosing music that complements the film’s mood. ‘Rumours’ features Dennis Harte’s ‘Summer’s Over’, a gentle folk ballad that serves as the perfect closing track for this political satire.
Overall, Cannes has showcased a diverse range of musical selections that have enhanced the films and added to the overall viewing experience. From punk anthems to sentimental ballads, each song has played a crucial role in shaping the narrative and themes of the films. These needle drops have contributed to the emotional impact of the stories told on screen, creating memorable moments that will linger with audiences long after the credits roll.
