9 Iconic Movie Songs That Have Lost Their Magic

Unimaginative Choices

In the realm of cinema, certain songs have become so overused that they have lost their original impact, turning iconic movie moments into parodies of themselves. Filmmakers often rely on the same songs repeatedly, failing to explore new and creative options.

Lorraine Warren with a painting of The Nun in the background in The Conjuring 2

Rebellious Anthem: 'London Calling'

The Clash's 'London Calling' may have been a politically charged diatribe in 1979, but its overuse in films like Atomic Blonde and Die Another Day has diluted its rebellious spirit. Instead of conveying a deeper message, the song now serves as a predictable cue for London-based scenes.

Lorraine Broughton in a club with neon lights in Atomic Blonde.

Cool Rebellious Spirit: 'All Along The Watchtower'

Jimmy Hendrix's 'All Along The Watchtower' has become a shortcut for representing a character's cool rebellious nature in movies like Withnail and I and Forrest Gump. Its association with the 60s and drug culture has made it a go-to choice for directors seeking a specific vibe.

Pierce Brosnan holding a sword as James Bond in Die Another Day.

Emotionally Momentous: 'Hallelujah'

The ubiquitous use of Leonard Cohen's 'Hallelujah' in films like Watchmen and Shrek has diminished the impact of this emotional ballad. Whether in animated comedies or Christian melodramas, the song's constant presence in poignant moments has made it lose its original power.

James Bond drinking a martini in Die Another Day

Trippy Subversion: 'White Rabbit'

Jefferson Airplane's 'White Rabbit' has become synonymous with drug-induced scenes in movies like Platoon and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. The song's trippy lyrics and haunting guitar riff have made it a popular choice for portraying mind-altering experiences on screen.

Meghan Markle in Get Him To The Greek

Signature Theme: 'Gimme Shelter'

The Rolling Stones' 'Gimme Shelter' is a classic track that director Martin Scorsese has repeatedly used in films like The Departed and Casino. While the song's powerful sound adds depth to intense scenes, its frequent appearance in Scorsese's works has made it an overplayed classic.

Forrest (Tom Hanks) in his soldier uniform, loaded down with gear in Vietnam in Forrest Gump.

Parodied Soundtrack: 'Chariots Of Fire (Titles)'

Vangelis' 'Chariots Of Fire' has become a target for parody due to its distinctive and iconic sound. The beach-running sequence from the film has been humorously recreated in various comedies, highlighting the song's enduring popularity and comedic potential.

Shrek walking with Donkey

Open Road Anthem: 'Born To Be Wild'

Steppenwolf's 'Born To Be Wild' has become the go-to choice for starting a road trip in movies like Easy Rider and Herbie: Fully Loaded. The song's association with freedom and rebellion has made it a clichéd but effective soundtrack for characters embarking on adventurous journeys.

Johnny Depp Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

Montage Favorite: 'What A Wonderful World'

Louie Armstrong's 'What A Wonderful World' is a popular choice for accompanying montages in films like Good Morning, Vietnam and 12 Monkeys. While the song's vivid imagery adds emotional depth to scenes, its frequent use across various genres has diminished its impact over time.

Thomas Mann & Brie Larson In Kong: Skull Island.jpg

Emotional Zenith: 'Over The Rainbow'

'Over The Rainbow' by Judy Garland and Israel Kamakawiwo'ole is a timeless classic often used in emotional climaxes of movies like The Wizard of Oz and 50 First Dates. Despite its emotional resonance, the song's numerous covers and appearances have made it one of the most overplayed tracks in cinema history.

Jonathan Groff sitting in chair in The Matrix Resurrections