Okay, sitting here recovering my Mott the Hoople fixation from years bygone (and ignoring student papers), I throw out: What is the best use of a song in a non-musical film?
Some nominees:
Mott the Hoople, “All the Way From Memphis” — Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore
the Ronettes, “Be My Baby” — Mean Streets
Peggy Lee, “Is That All There Is?” — After Hours
Donovan, “Atlantis” — Goodfellas (…sensing a pattern?)
Rolling Stones, “2000-year Man” — Bottle Rocket
the Stranglers, “Peaches” — Sexy Beast
Aimee Mann, “Wise Up” — Magnolia
Oh, I also saw a dandy little independent film called Assisted Living, apparently only available on Netflix. The director shot on-site in an eldercare facility in Louisville, employing many of the residents as “actors,” merging “fact and fiction” in his own brief description. I don’t care so much about that–but you may. What I found quite remarkable was its attention to aging, its cool-eyed compassion, and its wit. Plus, it was shot with a very nice, impressionistic edge…. kind of reminded me of David Gordon Green, but more interested in narrative. Recommended.
And, Howell–I really want to hear what you think of OldBoy. That film really sticks with me….