When you read a book, you enter into a fantasy world. You envision every detail of the story and when it is adapted to the movie screen, you expect it to be exactly the way you imagined it. You visualize the characters, the places they travel to and even the music playing in the background. So not only does the movie have to meet expectations, but the soundtrack does too.
The first and only single released from the upcoming “Hunger Games” soundtrack is “Safe & Sound” by Taylor Swift, featuring up-and-coming folk music artists The Civil Wars. It was released on Dec. 23 and rose to the No. 1 spot on the iTunes singles list within 24 hours of release.
“The Hunger Games,” based on the best-selling novel by Suzanne Collins, is the first film in a trilogy that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where 24 teenagers are randomly chosen as “tributes” every year to compete in a gruesome fight to the death on live television for the perverse enjoyment of the tyrannical ruling class. The story follows 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen (portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence) after she volunteers to fill her sister’s place in the Games when her sister’s name is drawn. Once she is thrown into the Games, she must use her wits and hunting skills to survive not only her opponents, but also a deadly, high-tech arena. The film is scheduled to be released March 23.
While I was skeptical when I heard that Taylor Swift was on the soundtrack, I was pleasantly surprised when I listened to the track. The collaboration with The Civil Wars brings a new style to Taylor Swift. It is far from her usual cheesy pop love songs and closer to the indie sound of The Civil Wars. Together, they were able to create a hauntingly beautiful song that I deem appropriate for the movie.
The lyrics capture the feelings of love, fear and hope that Katniss has throughout the novel. There is discussion over whether the song is about Peeta, a fellow tribute from Katniss’ hometown or Rue, a young friend she makes during the Games. Regardless, it depicts Katniss’ emotions toward the Games and the way she fiercely defends her friends even though they are meant to kill each other.
Grammy-winning producer T. Bone Burnett will produce the album and all of the new songs will be based on themes from the book’s storyline. The well-known bands featured on the album are Arcade Fire, who worked with Burnett to create the original song “Horn of Plenty,” the Decemberists with the original song, “One Engine,” and The Secret Sisters with “Tomorrow Will Be Kinder.” Jennifer Lawrence will also have a track on the album.
