Obviously, theme songs are going to be omitted from this list. Mainly because you don't hear, say, the theme from Gladiator unless you're watching just that. Also, I made a decision not to select movies that, though they aren't theme songs, were very clearly made for the movie (sorry Stat, this song from your favorite movie is no longer eligible).
As if you didn't have any reason to continue reading, each of these three songs didn't make the cut. Yeah, the list is that good.
The top 5, in no particular order:
"Tequila" ~ Sandlot
The unashamed nostalgia pick. Try to tell me you hear this song and don't think of carny rides and vomiting on innocent bystanders and I will call you a liar! Perhaps the first song that I immediately identified with a film scene.
"Mad World" ~ Donnie Darko
An eerie and creepy song to end an eerie and creepy movie. Fitting, eh? Although my feelings towards this movie have diminished since I first saw it, this song and this scene remain strong. Bonus points for this song's great use in this video game commercial.
"Stuck in the Middle with You" ~ Reservoir Dogs
The best scene in an all time classic. Literally every time I hear this song I begin dancing around the room, selecting a victim, and pretending to slice their ear off dump gasoline on it. This will often solicit strange looks or praise, nothing in between.
"Night Ranger" and "Jessie's Girl" ~ Boogie Nights
This scene always gives me chills. Always. This would make my list of top 5 scenes I've ever seen, and in all likelihood top it. Also, Alfred Molina (the drug dealer) would probably take my vote for best performance from someone in only a single scene of the movie. The song choices, the firecrackers, the unrelenting tension...incredible.
"Tiny Dancer" ~ Almost Famous
Am I biased because I love this song? Maybe. But can anyone actually argue against this? Certainly not. Watch and enjoy.
There you have it folks. Let me know what you would have included.
