Exploring the Cinematic Soundscape: A Synth Enthusiast's Perspective on Music-Themed FilmsWelcome to a cinematic journey through the lens of a synth enthusiast. In this article, we'll delve into the world of movies about music, exploring the best and the worst from the perspective of someone who lives and breathes the art of electronic sound creation. Get ready to discover hidden gems, uncover unexpected connections, and perhaps even challenge your own musical preferences.

Unraveling the Rhythms of Cinematic Brilliance

Sound of Noise: A Percussive Masterpiece

As a synth enthusiast, I was immediately drawn to the Swedish/French co-production "Sound of Noise." This 2010 film follows a group of renegade musicians who stage guerrilla-style percussion performances, using unconventional objects as their instruments. Imagine Einsturzende Neubauten or the Blue Man Group, but on a more intimate and disruptive scale. The moment a drummer set up in the back of a moving van and began to lay down a motorik beat, I knew I had found a kindred spirit. Inspired by futurist Luigi Russolo's 1913 manifesto, "The Art of Noises," this movie is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the power of unconventional music.

Phantom of the Paradise: A Synth-Infused Misfire

I really wanted to like Brian De Palma's 1974 film "Phantom of the Paradise," a mashup of Faust and Phantom of the Opera. While I'm not averse to camp and enjoy the works of directors like John Waters and Ken Russell, this particular film didn't quite hit the mark for me. However, it's still worth a watch, if only to catch a glimpse of the legendary TONTO synthesizer being played by the Phantom. The sequence featuring the noisy mixing desk is a particular highlight.

Sound of Metal: A Poignant Exploration of Hearing Loss

As musicians and producers, we all have a responsibility to take care of our hearing. As a tinnitus sufferer myself, I found "Sound of Metal" to be a particularly moving and relatable film. The story of a metal drummer, played by the incredible Riz Ahmed, who must come to terms with his hearing loss, resonated deeply with me. Having retired from DJing due to hearing issues, I could empathize with the protagonist's struggle to adapt to a new reality. The acting and filmmaking in this movie are top-notch, making it a must-watch for anyone in the music industry.

Masters of the Universe: A Synth-Fueled Disaster

When it comes to movies about music and synthesizers, "Masters of the Universe" is a true oddity. As a 15-year-old in 1987, I was more interested in the darker sounds of Skinny Puppy and A Clockwork Orange than this toy-based film. Revisiting it as an adult, I was struck by the bizarre synth connection. The Cosmic Key, which allows for interdimensional travel, is mistaken for a synthesizer by a teenager, leading to a laser battle that destroys a music shop filled with synths. The poor Obies catching on fire is a particularly memorable moment. While the movie is truly awful, it's worth a watch for the sheer absurdity of it all.

Eli Eli Lema Sabachthani?: A Unique Cinematic Experience

One of my all-time favorite films, regardless of genre, is the Japanese dystopian sci-fi "Eli Eli Lema Sabachthani?" Despite the Aramaic title (which translates to "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"), the film is set in a near-future where a pandemic is ravaging the world, and the only thing that keeps the virus at bay is noise music. The film follows two noise musicians as they work in their studio, creating songs. The fact that the actors who play them are real-life musicians only adds to the authenticity of the experience. "Eli Eli Lema Sabachthani?" is a truly unique and moving cinematic experience, a must-watch for any musician or lover of experimental art.

The Shock of the Future: A Synth-Centric Enigma

The final film on my list, "The Shock of the Future," is a bit of a mystery to me. I missed my chance to watch it when it was streaming, and now I'm kicking myself, as I've since learned that the film was written and directed by Marc Collin, the co-founder of the band Nouvelle Vague. Judging by the synths on display, it seems like Collin's personal collection was the inspiration for the film's visual aesthetic. I'm eager to see this movie and experience the synth-fueled world that Collin has created. If anyone has had the chance to watch "The Shock of the Future," I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.In conclusion, this cinematic journey has been a fascinating exploration of the intersection between music and film. From the guerrilla percussion performances of "Sound of Noise" to the poignant exploration of hearing loss in "Sound of Metal," these movies have offered a unique perspective on the power of sound and its ability to captivate, inspire, and even transform. While not every film was a resounding success, each one has provided a unique window into the world of music, offering synth enthusiasts like myself a chance to discover new and unexpected connections. So, whether you're a fellow synth lover or simply a cinephile with a passion for the unconventional, I encourage you to dive into these films and let the rhythms and melodies transport you to new and exciting realms.