by Brittney Corridean
The adjective “Epic” has been thrown around to describe many teen/tween films that have hit the screen in the last couple years. But for something to truly be epic, it would have to exemplify a generation- be something so completely original it’s incomparable to anything else of it’s kind. The film Empire Records did just that. Coming up on the movie’s 20 year anniversary, we selected our Lost and Found to pay tribute to on none other than Rex Manning Day.
Albeit, the film didn’t get the recognition it deserved right off the bat, but it is a movie that most people have now seen or at lease heard about. The acclaimed critics weren’t too enthralled, but a big “F-U” to the man is how many regular viewers actually appreciate and glorify the movie.
The film did introduce new songs from well known bands such as The Cranberries, Better Than Ezra and Gin Blossoms but it also brought an array of underground and garage band artists to the limelight that really capture the sound of the mid-90’s generation. They also did a great job incorporating older classic bands such as Toad the Wet Sproket, The Buggles and Dire Straights.
All of them culminated to become the soundtrack that is Empire Records and it was done in such an articulate way it was expressive and fun. One moment in particular (we can’t forget the hardcore sounds of Gwar) was Mark’s (played by Ethan Embry) tripped out escapade of dreaming he gets eaten by a stage monster from the band.
In honor of Rex Manning Day, Rough Trade NYC and BBQ Films will be hosting a three-day event (all sold-out!) in Brooklyn. Everything from a Rex Manning autograph, film screening, head-shaving station and more will take place. For those lucky bastards who were able to grab tickets for tonight’s celebration, we salute you. And we envy you. Gabriel Rhoads, a rep for BBQ Films had this to say (and we are so jealous):
“I think that the reason that we all love Empire Records is because it brings together our love for film and our love for music so perfectly. Also…In the spirit of independent film that’s such a huge part of Empire Records, we will be hosting local independent musicians at the event…We have also confirmed that GWAR is coming to the event. At our event, GWAR will step out of that screen and into the world of the event!”
From GWAR, local bands, a button making station, shave your head station, and more, talking about it just gets us upset. Why can’t this celebration come to Philadelphia?! Rhoads also mentions he is a fan of Chainsaw Kittens-not the band, but the shirt worn by Ehtan Embry in the film…Hmm? Maybe a hint to event goers…
But in all honestly, the tracks listed on the soundtrack are good, but if you take a look at the full list of tunes that play throughout the movie, it’s an undeniable eccentric and kick ass play list. It definitely has that 90’s touch to it that is so familiar to those who grew up in that decade.
You have the funky playful remake of “Money (That’s What I Want)” by the Flying Lizards that makes you feel a bit posh when listening to it, kind of similar to the swagger of Edwyn Collins’ “Girl Like You”. It then switches to the more dark, sensual sound of “What You Are” by Drill to the fun loving pop “’Til I Hear it From You” by Gin Blossoms.
The list goes on for about 50 songs or so, so for full effect and listening I suggest taking a peek yourself and see what the flick has to offer. As for the official soundtrack, only 16 songs are listed (womp womp) but at the time that’s all that could probably fit on one cassette.
Salute to you, Empire Records. Thanks for being so cool without even having to try.
