If you were to buy a David Lynch film on DVD in the early 2000's, odds are pretty good that it wouldn't include chapter stops. Though he has since come to embrace them, Lynch opposed them on the grounds that movies should be experienced as a whole rather than in parts. While I agree with him on that front, sometimes (after you've already seen the film through a first time) you just need a little cinema fix. Sometimes you just need that shock to the system that only moving pictures can provide.
If you're a longtime reader of this blog, you know that my favorite types of films are the ones that provide a variety of experience. Unlike the people in charge of Warner Brothers' DC Comics movies, I don't want JUST funny or JUST serious. The best films are the ones that can mix it up. One of the best ways to mix things up is by throwing in a musical number when you aren't expecting one. There's really nothing like watching a performer, "do their thing" and do it well. It's a great way to add humor or pathos when things have been too, "one note". Here are five personal favorites for your consideration.
"Cry Me a River" from The Girl Can't Help It
"Put the Blame on Mame" from Gilda
"Let My Baby Ride"from Holy Motors
"Prelude in C-Sharp Minor" from A Day at the Races
"Seems Like Old Times" from Annie Hall
While this isn't really a surprise, I felt this was in a similar vein:
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Great pick Sarah! But more than anything your suggestion makes me wish I'd included the opening to Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom!
DeleteOh yes! I love musical numbers in (mostly) non-musical movies. That Cry Me a River one is perfect. That whole scene is great, really. Gosh, I love that film...
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