“How to Be Single,” the 2016 romantic comedy, leans heavily on its soundtrack to not just underscore the plot but to actively shape the emotional arc of its characters. The songs in “How to Be Single” aren’t just background noise; they’re carefully selected to reflect the chaotic energy, heartbreak, and ultimately, the self-discovery inherent in navigating single life in New York City.
The Power of Music in Storytelling
Music has long been a powerful tool in cinematic storytelling. It can foreshadow events, amplify emotions, and even provide commentary on the characters and their choices. In “How to Be Single,” the soundtrack goes beyond simple background music; it acts as a character itself, reflecting the multifaceted experience of being single.
Setting the Tone and Establishing Mood
The selection of songs is crucial for establishing the tone and mood of each scene. Upbeat, dance-worthy tracks accompany scenes of the characters enjoying their single lives, embracing freedom and experimentation. Conversely, slower, more introspective songs often soundtrack moments of heartbreak, loneliness, or self-doubt. This deliberate use of music allows the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper emotional level.
Reflecting Character Arcs and Emotional Journeys
Each character in the film undergoes a significant emotional journey, and the soundtrack effectively mirrors these transformations. Alice, the protagonist, transitions from a relationship-dependent mindset to embracing her independence. The songs chosen for her scenes reflect this shift, moving from sentimental love songs to empowering anthems of self-reliance. Similarly, other characters’ storylines, such as Robin’s carefree hedonism and Lucy’s calculated approach to finding a partner, are enhanced and clarified by the music chosen to accompany their scenes.
Providing Commentary and Subtext
Sometimes, the lyrics of the songs directly comment on the events unfolding on screen, providing subtext and adding another layer of meaning to the narrative. A song about heartbreak, for example, might play during a scene where a character is struggling to cope with a breakup, underscoring their pain and vulnerability. This technique allows the filmmakers to communicate complex emotions in a concise and impactful way.
Analyzing Key Songs and Their Impact
Let’s examine some key songs featured in “How to Be Single” and analyze their impact on the film’s narrative:
- “Can’t Feel My Face” by The Weeknd: This song perfectly captures the carefree party atmosphere and the hedonistic pursuits embraced by Robin (Rebel Wilson). It symbolizes the avoidance of deeper emotions through excessive partying.
- “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor: While not explicitly featured, the spirit of this iconic anthem permeates the film. It represents the resilience and determination of the characters as they navigate the challenges of single life and learn to embrace their independence.
- “Something in the Water” by Brooke Fraser: This uplifting song represents the possibility of renewal and hope amidst the chaos of singlehood. It often plays during moments of reflection, suggesting that even after heartbreak, there is still the potential for happiness and personal growth.
- “This Is What You Came For” by Calvin Harris ft. Rihanna: This popular track speaks to the desire for connection and fulfillment, resonating with characters like Lucy who are actively searching for a meaningful relationship. Its inclusion highlights the underlying longing for companionship despite the embrace of single life.
The Soundtrack as a Reflection of Contemporary Single Life
The soundtrack of “How to Be Single” isn’t just a collection of popular songs; it’s a reflection of contemporary single life itself. It captures the diverse range of experiences, from the exhilarating freedom to the crushing loneliness, that define this phase of life for many individuals.
Representing Diverse Perspectives
The movie showcases a diverse group of characters, each with their own unique approach to singlehood. The soundtrack mirrors this diversity, incorporating songs from various genres and artists, reflecting the different perspectives and experiences of the characters. This helps to create a more relatable and authentic portrayal of single life.
Exploring the Nuances of Modern Relationships
The film delves into the complexities of modern relationships, including the challenges of online dating, the fear of commitment, and the search for genuine connection. The soundtrack amplifies these themes, exploring the nuances of modern relationships through its carefully chosen lyrics and musical styles.
Encouraging Self-Discovery and Empowerment
Ultimately, “How to Be Single” is a story about self-discovery and empowerment. The soundtrack plays a vital role in reinforcing this message, featuring songs that encourage listeners to embrace their individuality, celebrate their independence, and prioritize their own happiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Who was responsible for selecting the music for “How to Be Single”?
The music supervisors are responsible for selecting and licensing the music for a film. In “How to Be Single,” the music supervision team likely worked closely with the director and producers to choose songs that effectively supported the narrative and enhanced the emotional impact of the scenes.
FAQ 2: What is the difference between diegetic and non-diegetic music in the movie?
Diegetic music is music that characters within the film can hear (e.g., music playing from a radio or live band). Non-diegetic music is music that only the audience can hear (e.g., the score or soundtrack songs). “How to Be Single” primarily uses non-diegetic music to enhance the emotional impact of the scenes.
FAQ 3: How does the music contribute to the film’s overall message about being single?
The music supports the film’s message by showcasing the highs and lows of single life. Upbeat songs celebrate the freedom and fun, while more poignant songs acknowledge the challenges and loneliness. Ultimately, the soundtrack emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and embracing one’s independence, regardless of relationship status.
FAQ 4: Does the soundtrack feature original songs written specifically for the movie?
While the soundtrack primarily features existing songs, there may be a few instances of original music or covers created specifically for the film. However, the majority of the soundtrack consists of commercially released tracks.
FAQ 5: How does the film use music to contrast different characters’ experiences of being single?
The film uses music to highlight the different personalities and approaches of the characters. For example, Robin’s carefree lifestyle is often accompanied by upbeat, party-oriented music, while Lucy’s more serious and analytical approach is reflected in her preference for more introspective and romantic songs.
FAQ 6: Can the soundtrack be considered a “character” in the movie?
While unconventional, the soundtrack effectively functions as a secondary character in “How to Be Single.” It actively contributes to the narrative, shaping the emotional landscape and providing commentary on the characters’ experiences.
FAQ 7: What are some common themes explored in the songs featured in “How to Be Single”?
Common themes explored in the songs include love, heartbreak, independence, self-discovery, freedom, and the search for meaning. These themes resonate with the characters’ journeys and help to create a relatable and engaging portrayal of single life.
FAQ 8: How can music be used to foreshadow events in a movie like “How to Be Single”?
Music can hint at future events through lyrical content or instrumental cues. For example, a melancholic song playing during a seemingly happy scene might foreshadow an impending breakup or disappointment.
FAQ 9: Does the music change as Alice’s character evolves throughout the film?
Yes, the music reflects Alice’s evolving character. At the beginning, songs about love and relationships dominate, but as she embraces her independence, the soundtrack shifts to empowering anthems and songs about self-discovery.
FAQ 10: How does the soundtrack appeal to the target audience of the movie?
The soundtrack appeals to the target audience, primarily young adults navigating single life, by featuring popular and relatable songs that reflect their experiences and emotions. The inclusion of diverse genres and artists ensures that there is something for everyone to connect with.
FAQ 11: What role does the film’s score play in complementing the soundtrack?
While the soundtrack features popular songs, the film score provides the underlying emotional landscape. It underscores key scenes, adds depth and complexity, and enhances the overall viewing experience.
FAQ 12: Can the success of “How to Be Single” be attributed, in part, to its well-curated soundtrack?
Yes, the well-curated soundtrack undoubtedly contributes to the film’s success. It enhances the storytelling, amplifies the emotional impact, and creates a more immersive and engaging experience for the audience. The music resonates with viewers on a personal level, making the film more relatable and memorable. The careful selection of songs becomes a significant element in the movie’s overall appeal and cultural impact.