From explosive visual effects to thrilling action sequences,
superhero cinema has long been a spectacle for the eyes. However, the films of
director James Gunn stand apart, offering more than just dazzling visuals. His
works are also renowned for their uniquely curated soundtracks, which have
become a signature element of his storytelling. By weaving a tapestry of sound
and sight, Gunn elevates his movies beyond the typical superhero fare, making
the music as memorable as the heroes themselves.

James Gunn’s cinematic vision extends beyond the screen into
the sonic landscape of the music observed in his films.

The Director’s role as a music curator

James Gunn’s deliberate and personal approach to selecting
music has profoundly impacted his superhero films. In a recent podcast of SmartLess,
James Gunn stated he chooses every song for his movies, transforming the
soundtrack into a vital narrative component rather than a simple backdrop. He
said, “The soundtracks became huge hits… like platinum-selling albums”. This
meticulous curation of 1970s AM pop and other eclectic tracks distinguishes his
work, grounding the fantastical space adventures in a sense of nostalgic
familiarity. No doubt this sense of use of music comes from his early days.

Before his work on blockbuster superhero films, James Gunn
was a musician and the lead vocalist for a band called The Icons. Formed in
1989 in St. Louis, the band released their only album, ‘Mom, We Like It Here on
Earth’, in 1994. Some of their songs, such as ‘Sunday’ and ‘Walking Naked,’
were even featured in Gunn’s early film, Tromeo and Juliet,
demonstrating his long-standing connection to music and its role in his
creative projects.

This artistic approach is clearly evident in his most iconic
and emotionally charged superhero film moments.

The soundtracks of James Gunn’s cinematic universe

The use of music in James Gunn’s films is not merely for
entertainment; it is a tool for emotional and narrative storytelling. In Guardians
of the Galaxy, the movie from which he nearly walked away, the ‘Awesome Mix Vol. 1’ playlist becomes a personal
artifact of the protagonist, Peter Quill, connecting him to his past on Earth.
Songs like ‘Hooked on a Feeling’ by Blue Swede and ‘Come and Get Your Love’ by
Redbone are not simply background tracks; they are woven into the film’s
identity, defining its tone and enhancing key scenes.

This seamless blend of music and visuals is further
exemplified in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and The Suicide Squad.
In the former, the opening sequence is set to Electric Light Orchestra’s ‘Mr.
Blue Sky’ perfectly captures the chaos of the characters. In the latter, the
film’s gritty, punk-infused soundtrack, featuring songs like ‘Folsom Prison
Blues’ by Johnny Cash, reflects the raw and rebellious nature of the
anti-heroes. Gunn’s musical choices elevate action sequences and character
moments, turning them into unforgettable cinematic experiences.

What is your favorite track that accompanies the iconic film’s visuals? Let us know in the comments below.