Emerald Fennell’s ‘Wuthering Heights’ Signals a New Era of Soundtrack Curation
The film industry is quietly undergoing a seismic shift in how it approaches music. It’s no longer enough to simply *score* a film; directors are increasingly acting as curators, blending established composers with unexpected pop artists to create sonic landscapes that resonate far beyond the credits. The first teaser for Emerald Fennell’s upcoming Wuthering Heights adaptation, featuring original songs from Charli XCX, is a prime example – and a strong indicator of a trend that will redefine cinematic soundscapes.
Beyond the Score: The Rise of the ‘Curated Soundtrack’
For decades, film scores were largely the domain of dedicated composers. Think John Williams, Hans Zimmer, or Alexandre Desplat. While their work remains vital, a new model is emerging. Fennell, following in the footsteps of filmmakers like Greta Gerwig (Barbie) and Baz Luhrmann (Elvis), is leveraging the cultural cachet of contemporary musicians. This isn’t about simply licensing popular songs; it’s about commissioning original work that’s intrinsically tied to the film’s themes and emotional core.
Why Now? The Convergence of Film and Pop Culture
Several factors are driving this change. Firstly, the lines between film and music have blurred thanks to streaming and social media. A viral song from a film can generate as much buzz – and revenue – as the movie itself. Secondly, audiences, particularly younger demographics, are increasingly attuned to sonic branding. A distinctive soundtrack can become a key part of a film’s identity and a powerful marketing tool. Finally, directors like Fennell are themselves deeply embedded in contemporary culture, bringing a more holistic and integrated approach to filmmaking. Fennell’s previous work, Promising Young Woman and Saltburn, demonstrated a keen understanding of how music can amplify narrative tension and emotional impact.
Charli XCX and the ‘Literary Pop’ Aesthetic
The choice of Charli XCX for Wuthering Heights is particularly intriguing. Known for her experimental electronic pop and deconstruction of genre conventions, XCX isn’t an obvious choice for a period drama based on Emily Brontë’s gothic novel. However, her recent album, Brat (reviewed by Pitchfork), showcases a fascination with themes of female rage, societal constraints, and fractured identity – all central to Wuthering Heights. This suggests a deliberate attempt to tap into a “literary pop” aesthetic, where pop music engages with classic literature and explores complex emotional terrain. This approach aligns with the broader trend of artists like Florence + The Machine drawing inspiration from Romantic poetry.
The Marketing Power of a Star Musician
Beyond the artistic synergy, casting a popular musician like Charli XCX provides a significant marketing boost. Her fanbase, largely separate from traditional period drama audiences, will be drawn to the film, expanding its potential reach. This cross-pollination of audiences is a key benefit of the curated soundtrack model. It’s a strategy that’s been proven effective in recent years, with artists like Billie Eilish (No Time to Die) and Lady Gaga (A Star is Born) demonstrating the power of musician-led soundtracks.
What This Means for the Future of Film Soundtracks
Expect to see more filmmakers embracing this curated approach. The traditional film score won’t disappear, but it will increasingly be complemented – and sometimes even overshadowed – by original songs from contemporary artists. This will lead to a more diverse and dynamic sonic landscape in cinema, blurring the boundaries between film, music, and pop culture. Furthermore, the role of the music supervisor will become even more crucial, acting as a bridge between the director’s vision and the artist’s creative output. The success of Wuthering Heights, slated for release on February 14, 2026, will undoubtedly serve as a case study for this evolving trend.
What are your predictions for the future of film soundtracks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
