Synchronization of music and action can elevate a film scene from memorable to iconic. Here are six instances where filmmakers paired fight scenes with just the right songs and created unforgettable cinematic moments.
6. ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ – ‘Free Bird’ by Lynyrd Skynyrd
The 2014 film ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service‘ features a standout scene known as the ‘church scene,’ where Kingsman agent Harry engages in a battle against brainwashed cult members in a church setting. The scene is intensified by the famous guitar solo from Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Free Bird,’ and the solo’s crescendo aligns with the climax of the fight.
5. ‘The Last Samurai’ – ‘A Way Of Life’ by Hans Zimmer
In ‘The Last Samurai‘ (2003), a period action drama, a fight scene unfolds to the backdrop of Hans Zimmer’s ‘A Way Of Life.’ This scene features a culturally immersive sword fight in the rain. The orchestral piece, composed by Zimmer and performed by the Hollywood Studio Symphony, complements the emotional gravity and historical context of the scene.
4. ‘Iron Man 2’ – ‘Robot Rock’ by Daft Punk
‘Iron Man 2‘ brings a twist to its fight scene soundtrack. In a moment of crisis for Tony Stark, he faces off against his friend Rhodey while wearing his Iron Man suit. Stark’s character chooses Daft Punk’s ‘Robot Rock’ for this showdown, highlighting the irony of two mechanized suits battling it out.
3. ‘Corky Romano’ – ‘We’re Not Gonna Take It’ by Twisted Sister
In the 2001 comedy ‘Corky Romano,‘ a scene featuring a clash with neo-Nazis is accompanied by Twisted Sister’s rebellious anthem ‘We’re Not Gonna Take It.’ The song plays as the protagonist and his allies infiltrate a hideout, leading to a one-sided takedown of the captors.
2. ‘Undercover Brother’ – ‘Beat It’ by Michael Jackson
The spy action comedy ‘Undercover Brother‘ uses Michael Jackson’s iconic ‘Beat It’ to score its climactic fight. Known for its blend of humor and action, the film sees a well-executed showdown between the hero and the villain. ‘Beat It’ adds an extra layer of excitement to this already dynamic scene.
1. ‘Shaun of the Dead’ – ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ by Queen
Topping the list is the climactic pub fight from ‘Shaun of the Dead,‘ perfectly timed to Queen’s ‘Don’t Stop Me Now.’ The scene balances dark humor and horror as the characters fend off a zombie attack. The use of Queen’s energetic track not only heightens the action but also adds a humorous twist, especially as the characters comically beat the zombie in sync with the song.
