Some movie soundtracks are so good, we love them as much as the film itself, but can you really pick a favorite? A new survey asks people to do just that and finds a Disney classic leads the list. “The Lion King” takes the title of the greatest movie soundtrack of all time, according to a poll of 2-thousand people.
The research, done to celebrate Dolby Laboratories’ 60th anniversary, finds that 79% agree the soundtrack “significantly enhances” the viewing experience and enjoyment of a movie.
- For 76%, the movie is more likely to be considered a classic if it has music that stays with you long after the final scene.
- But what makes a soundtrack iconic? A memorable melody comes in as the most important element (41%), followed by a catchy chorus (26%) and a lively rhythm (24%).
- Having songs that are well-known (19%) and a climactic crescendo (12%) are also essential.
- Around four in 10 have discovered a new artist or band from hearing them in a movie and one in five have gone to a live concert dedicated to a film score.
- Three-quarters think immersive sound is important when watching a movie, at home or in the theater.
- For 36%, it adds to the suspense of a scene, 35% feel the overall sound brings the movie world to life and 33% say it makes action scenes more thrilling.
- The survey also asks which movie sounds have made the most lasting impression, with the iconic “dun-dun, dun-dun” from “Jaws” landing at number one (38%).
- The haunting whistle from “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” is second, followed by the lightsaber hum from “Star Wars,” the screeching shower scene from “Psycho” and the “E.T” phone home sound.
The Top 10 Movie Soundtracks of All Time
- “The Lion King”
- “Saturday Night Fever”
- “Titanic”
- “The Greatest Showman”
- “The Sound of Music”
- “Top Gun” (any)
- “Star Wars” (any)
- “The Bodyguard”
- “Pulp Fiction”
- “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy
Source: 72 Point