is a gripping and unsettling film that maintains a dark sense of humor. It follows the story of Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan), a university student who forges a friendship with the charming Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi). Burdened by family troubles, Oliver seeks refuge with Felix and his eclectic family in their countryside estate, Saltburn. As Oliver’s ambition and lust for power grow, a sinister chain of events threatens to unravel the Catton family. Director Emerald Fennell skillfully incorporates a compelling soundtrack that amplifies the film’s themes and emotional undercurrents.

Early in the film, Oliver sits alone in a bar, visibly out of place, when Felix approaches and invites him to join him for a drink. The brief yet pivotal interaction foreshadows Oliver’s growing influence over Felix’s life. The indie hit “No Cars Go” by Arcade Fire softly plays in the background, subtly anchoring the scene in its 2006 setting.

As Oliver becomes more comfortable at Saltburn, he seamlessly integrates into the Catton family dynamic. A montage shows him lounging in the sprawling countryside, basking in the sunlight outside the family’s grand estate, and reveling in the company of others. MGMT’s “Time to Pretend,” with its upbeat electronic sound, perfectly captures the feeling of summer bliss while alluding to Oliver’s desire to belong, even if it means pretending to fit in. Released in 2007, the song’s playful, dreamlike quality adds a layer of irony to Oliver’s assimilation into Felix’s privileged life.

Felix’s American cousin, Farleigh Start (Archie Madekwe), is suspicious of Oliver from the beginning. The song choice is anything but random—its lyrics, especially the line "I love you, you pay my rent," mirror Oliver’s growing dependence on the Catton family without contributing anything in return. Tension grows as Oliver’s discomfort rises, delivering the reaction Farleigh hoped for.

As Oliver and Felix set off on a road trip, the upbeat and unmistakable riff of The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside” plays in the background. The pair laugh and enjoy the carefree moment, but underneath the surface, the stakes are rising. Little does Oliver know that Felix is taking him to his family home. The problem? Oliver told him that his family life was toxic, but in reality, he fabricated the story to gain Felix’s sympathy. “Mr. Brightside” serves as a significant turning point as Oliver’s carefully constructed lies unravel.

“Perfect (Exceeder)” - Mason & Princess Superstar

Perfect (Exceeder) - Mason & Princess Superstar

Before their fallout, Felix planned an elaborate birthday party for Oliver. It is too late to cancel; the celebration continues, and everyone is dressed in incredible costumes that fit the theme of 

. Contrasting to the song title, this night isn’t perfect. The energetic EDM song is utilized to show how it is human nature to put up a perfect facade despite internal conflict. The party serves as a contrast to the underlying tensions in the estate.

As the story takes a darker turn, Oliver once again finds himself isolated and agitated. Mirroring his solitude from earlier in the film, he is consumed by his desperation for Felix’s companionship. He follows Felix into the maze, seemingly to mend their friendship. The song “Loneliness” ends along with the scene. Later, Felix is found dead within the labyrinth, leaving the audience to piece together the horrifying events that transpired.

“Murder On The Dancefloor” - Sophie Ellis-Bextor

Murder on the Dancefloor - Sophie Ellis-Bextor

or not, anyone with access to the internet has heard of this infamous scene. Shortly after confessing his involvement in all the tragedies that fell on Saltburn to a dying Elspeth Catton (Rosamund Pike), he finally seizes the power he desires. With the house now his, he celebrates by dancing naked through its halls to the tune of Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s early 2000s hit “Murder on the Dancefloor.” The track’s playful yet sinister tone perfectly captures Oliver’s descent into madness as he turns the once-grand estate into his stage for triumph.

The Best Music Moments from Saltburn

David Bowie is arguably one of the most influential artists of all time. From his unique fashion moments to groovy beats, Bowie’s music transcends the norm. Famously collaborating with artists such as Queen and Mick Jagger and starring in 

 his reach is unparalleled. His songs have been featured in endless movies and television shows. Here are a few of his most iconic syncs.

, directed by Taika Waititi, is a historical comedy based on World War II. German boy Jojo Betzler (Roman Griffin Davis) discovers his mother, Rosie (Scarlett Johansson), is hiding a young Jewish girl, Elsa Korr (Thomasin McKenzie), in their attic. Jojo struggles with his nationalism as he begins to befriend Elsa. The German version (“Helden”) of Bowie's classic "Heroes" is used as Jojo and his friend Elsa step outside after the war has ended. The song captures the spirit of Jojo’s character development and the triumph he and Elsa feel as they step outside.

, directed by Stephen Chbosky, is sentimental and nostalgic. The film unfolds following protagonist Charlie (Logan Lerman) and depicts his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder and the formation of friendships. In a car with his two best friends, Sam (Emma Watson) and Patrick (Ezra Miller), they drive through a tunnel as the perfect song, “Heroes,” comes on. Sam stands up through the sunroof and extends her arms as Charlie reflects that he feels infinite.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower soundtrack

is one of the most critically acclaimed movies in the Marvel Universe. Space adventurer Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) is always found holding his famous mixtape. “Moonage Daydream” is the 4th track on his Awesome Mix Vol. 1. On the way to planet Knowhere with the Guardians, Peter is listening to the tune.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Awesome Mix Vol. 1

directed by Amy Heckerling, tells the story of rich teen Cher Horowitz’s (Alicia Silverstone) coming-of-age as she realizes that popularity isn’t everything. Well suited to the scene, “Fashion” plays as Cher uses her desktop to choose an outfit for school on her virtual wardrobe.

directed by the late Jim Henson, is the story of Sarah Williams’ (Jennifer Connelly) journey as she tries to solve a labyrinth and find her baby brother Toby. David Bowie plays the menacing Goblin King Jareth, and his music is found throughout the film. “Magic Dance” is a standout moment. Jareth and his fellow goblins dance around Toby in awe of him.

, directed by Frank Coraci, is one of the most iconic rom-coms of its time. Robbie Hart (Adam Sandler) is a wedding singer and meets Julia Sullivan (Drew Barrymore) as she seeks out his work for her wedding. “China Girl” plays during the double date club scene. During the date, Robbie learns that Julia’s fiance, Glenn, is cheating on her.

is known for its iconic music. Featuring a plethora of the 70s best hits, it’s no surprise “I’m Waiting for the Man” by David Bowie made its way into the soundtrack. Instead of using the studio-produced version, a live version of the song from the album 

is used, which aids in setting the atmosphere as Stillwater arrives at a Cleveland hotel. Russell Hammond (Billy Crudup) speaks to William Miller’s (Patrick Fugit) mom on the phone as the song plays.

soundtrack perfectly encapsulates the tragedy shown in the film. David Sheff (Steve Carell) grapples with his son Nic’s (Timothée Chalamet) addiction to meth. David and Nic share a joint, leaning against the car while “Sound and Vision” plays in the background. The scene switches to David researching the effects of meth addiction while the song fades away.

(Some Of) The Best David Bowie Movie Music Moments

With so many television viewing options, a captivating soundtrack can elevate a series from entertaining to truly unforgettable. 

, a coming-of-age drama based on Jenny Han’s beloved novels, is a prime example of this phenomenon. The show is centered around Isabel “Belly” Conklin (Lola Tung), who spends every summer at Cousins Beach with her family and family friends- including brothers Conrad (Christopher Briney) and Jeremiah Fisher (Gavin Casalegno). This summer, Belly arrives mature and confident, leading to a shift in her dynamic with the boys. Harboring feelings for Conrad since she was twelve, she navigates the challenges of him becoming distant and Jeremiah, his playful brother, seeing her in a new light. Deeper emotional challenges unfold in season one, including family tensions and secrets, particularly surrounding Susannah Fisher’s (Rachel Blanchard) battle with cancer.

The show's first season is a testament to how music can enhance a story's emotional depth and resonance. Season one’s soundtrack explores the series’ themes of love, loss, and personal growth. From poignant melodies that underscore crucial moments, such as first kisses, to tracks that capture the essence of summer, music shapes the season into a musical and emotional journey.

The season begins with a burst of nostalgic energy as Electric Light Orchestra’s “Mr. Blue Sky” sets the tone in the opening montage. The clip shows Belly, her brother Steven (Sean Kaufman), Conrad, and Jeremiah’s adventures at their beach house in Cousins Beach. The sequence shows the development of the four as they grew up and spent their summers together. Humorously, the infamous “Belly Flop” is shown in the clip as the three boys throw Belly into the pool. 

Later in the episode, Taylor Swift’s romantic hit “Lover” plays the first time Belly lays eyes on Conrad that summer. The song mirrors her long-standing crush and admiration that only grows stronger when she sees him again. Despite her changes, the boys (especially her brother Steven) still see her as a kid. 

Previously uninvited every summer to the annual beach party, Belly decides to go this year. Cardi B’s energetic “Up” accompanies her journey to the beach, displaying her goal of showing everyone she is more grown up than they think.

Episode two, “Summer Dress,” continues the complexities of first love and fleeting connections. After meeting Cam (David Iacono) at the beach party, they start hanging out nonstop. Shortly in the episode, Wheatus’ “Teenage Dirtbag” plays as they share their first kiss. The song captures the awkwardness between them and amplifies Belly’s hidden desire to be with Conrad instead. The song choice is somewhat ironic as she is nowhere near close to being a teenage dirtbag. However, her sudden change in attitude and desire for adventure makes it resonate. 

Along with chasing after boys, Belly spends her summer preparing for the Cousins Beach debutante ball. The ball is something that she never wanted to participate in, but as Susannah doesn’t have a daughter, she wants to make her happy, so she agrees to attend. Belly, Susannah, and Belly’s mother, Laurel (Jackie Chung), embark on a shopping trip to find the perfect dress. “Ice Cream” by BLACKPINK ft. Selena Gomez plays in the background, amplifying the summer vibes.

It’s Belly’s birthday! Despite her best friend Taylor (Rain Spencer) coming to visit, she feels nothing but disappointment. Alessia Cara’s emotional track “You Let Me Down” plays as Conrad tells Belly he forgot her birthday and didn’t get her anything. The name of the song quite literally describes her feelings. 

As the group celebrates with an afternoon at the pool, Dayglow’s “Can I Call You Tonight” sets the carefree vibe. 

After that, Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Your Type” plays as Belly discovers that Conrad did remember her birthday, an unexpected twist that leaves her feeling both elated and conflicted. 

To add to the conflict in her life, she walks in on Taylor and her brother Steven kissing at a party she and Taylor later attend. Billie Eilish’s heartbreak anthem “Happier Than Ever” plays as she walks in on them. In an interview, Eilish described the song as a reflection of all the times she had been betrayed and mistreated. This perfectly encapsulates Belly’s feelings in the moment.

Things heat up emotionally and literally as Caveboy’s “Something Like Summer” accompanies Belly's rebellious day, throwing back margaritas. Initially, she and her friends were playing a drinking game, but determined to show everyone how adult she is, she completely overdoes it. 

The energy is palpable, yet simmering tension boils over when Taylor Swift’s “False God” plays during a near-kiss between Belly and Conrad. They sit at the edge of the dock, and just as they lean in, their moment is interrupted by a jealous Jeremiah, who sets off fireworks above them. Creator Jenny Han noted that this was one of her favorite musical placements in the show.

Jeremiah steals the show in this episode with his spontaneous, carefree nature. During a rehearsal for the debutante ball, he crashes the event and pulls the ladies onto the dance floor as Reyanna Maria’s “So Pretty” pulses in the background. The song's energy equally matches Jeremiah’s and serves as a poignant reminder of the personality difference between him and Conrad. 

After the almost kiss in episode four, Belly decides she can’t lead Cam on any longer. Bruno Mars's melancholy tune “Places We Won’t Walk” plays in the background while they break up. 

Determined to finally get things moving with Conrad, “Be Sweet” by Japanese Breakfast plays as she is psyching herself up to confess her feelings. 

Things don’t go well, so she meets up with Jeremiah, and they kiss in the pool. The producers love a literal song. “ARE WE STILL FRIENDS?” by Tyler, The Creator, plays during the kiss, showing their step beyond normal friendship.

The stakes are higher than ever as the season nears its end. When Conrad finally opens up to Belly and gives her the necklace he had gotten her for her birthday, Billie Eilish’s haunting “When the Party’s Over” plays, reflecting the end of an era for them. Lyric, “Call me friend but keep me closer,” plays as they look at each other, seemingly about to kiss. Instead, Belly turns around and walks away, saying he is too late as Belly shifts her attention to Jeremiah. 

Tyler, the Creator’s “WUSYANAME” echoes in scenes featuring Jeremiah as he prepares for a party following a volleyball tournament between him, Belly, and Taylor, capturing his uncertainty about his place in Belly’s heart. Tyler, The Creator, is frequently used in Jeremiah and Belly scenes as a marker of their growing relationship.

The season finale is a rollercoaster of emotions, perfectly scored with songs that match each moment’s intensity. As the debutante ball approaches, Taylor Swift’s “The Way I Loved You (Taylor’s Version)” plays during a critical moment when Jeremiah is nowhere to be found at the debutante ball. Conrad steps in to dance with Belly as her suitor. The song perfectly captures the tension between the brothers and Belly’s shifting affections. While she tries to push away Conrad, she ultimately loves him deep down. 

But the most significant emotional hit comes with Phoebe Bridgers’ “Funeral,” playing during the revelation of Susannah’s cancer diagnosis. As the reality of her illness sinks in, the song’s haunting lyrics and melody mirror the sadness and helplessness felt by Belly, Laurel, and Steven as they grapple with the news. The episode ends on a somber note as Susannah tells her sons that she’s unwilling to try experimental treatment, leaving everyone devastated.

The Best Music Moments from Saltburn

(Some Of) The Best David Bowie Movie Music Moments

The Best Music Moments from Season One of The Summer I Turned Pretty

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