Last month, I wrote an article about how I felt as though movie soundtracks aren’t as popular as they used to be. Sure, some do well via streaming services, but once upon a time, many of us were collecting soundtracks to play over and over again (likely while we also had the movie poster on our bedroom walls).
Like a tornado sweeping through, Wicked – the movie based on the musical (based on the book) – has already smashed streaming records. It also seems like it may translate into sales of physical media too.
While the movie was released in theatres on November 22nd, music stores across the United States hosted listening parties of the film’s official soundtrack. The excitement for this soundtrack can’t be denied – in the first 24 hours of release, Wicked: The Soundtrack became Amazon Music’s most streamed musical soundtrack of all time.
Yes, there was already a built-in fan base who know and love the songs; the hit Broadway musical debuted 20 years ago and has enjoyed global success ever since. Still, old and new fans alike are connecting with this popular soundtrack.
On the heels of the gift giving season, a lot of people will likely be unwrapping the CD, vinyl record or picture disc for the film. I’ve also written that there seems to be an increase in the purchasing of physical media again for younger people.
Plus, unlike some soundtracks that are a selection of various artists and sounds, this is a piece of storytelling, completely instrumental to the plot. Each line and verse foreshadows and places emphasis exactly where it needs to.
I loved the movie, personally. I may go see it again in the theatre. It was so impactful. The soundtrack also offers a unique opportunity to talk to kids about the movie itself, the support it’s receiving, and the power of story told through song.
It also provides a unique opportunity to start media conversations with your kids. How did they feel when they saw how Elphaba was being treated? Did they relate or empathize with Elphaba or maybe they say her experience reflected in others? When you hear the songs after seeing the movie, how do you feel? There is so much foreshadowing – what did you think about having to wait for the sequel? How do the songs make you feel as you listen to the music and lyrics?
Music has such an impact on our emotions and a movie like Wicked reinforces this.
If your child has seen the movie, with or without you, these conversations and feelings may arise. Read this article about managing music media at home to act as a guide as you navigate your way through the soundtrack together.
And remember; there’s still a part two of the movie coming. There’s going to be a lot more conversations happening after that I think (again, the music and foreshadowing!). Enjoy the soundtrack as a family while it whisks you away to the land of Oz.
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