We know how much attention the Toledano-Nacache duo puts into their films. Who does not remember, for example, Omar Sy’s dance scene in Earth, Wind & Fire and the hit Boogie Wonderland in the untouchables?
Once again, for a difficult year, for their new film, the tandem turned to the funk standard Le Freak from Chic. But this is not the only famous title that we can recognize throughout the film.
The film mixes different genres of music, from French song standards (Jacques Brel) to Jimi Hendrix. For a selection from Jacques Brel’s La valse à mille temps that we hear twice, Eric Toledano explained the selection echoes the film’s message: “This poetic waltz—showing this overconsumption—worked well, and very quickly we thought we were going to close the film with that poetry. The waltz is a bit like us not knowing how to dance in this world. Might as well be a waltz of ideas!“
Another very recognizable song in the film: The End by The Doors. From Francis Ford Cupola’s iconic film, Apocalypse Now! “To demonstrate the movement, we played a song previously used in Coppola’s film, Apocalypse Now. There was something about the end of the system, line of thinking, and so it fit very well“, develops the co-director.
and added: “We sometimes try things out during filming, and it’s on the editing table that at some point the music really comes into its own. There are many such musics that can stand out. This is obviously part of the music selection that we really like.“.
For the instrumental parts, the filmmakers called on the English modern jazz trio GoGo Penguin and the indie duo Grandbrother, between piano and electro.
As a bonus, some may recognize the David Bowie song. Yarol Poupaud releases a new cover of Stay for the film and is available on the CD accompanying the release of A Difficult Year.
Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache’s difficult year is currently on display.
Source: Allocine

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.