Philadelphia

Label: Epic Soundtrax
Released: 1993
Barcode: 5099747499821
Country: Europe
Product Type: CD (Pre-owned)
Score or Soundtrack: Soundtrack
Composer: Howard Shore

"Philadelphia," released in 1993, is a profoundly moving and groundbreaking film directed by Jonathan Demme. The film is notable for being one of the first mainstream Hollywood movies to address HIV/AIDS, homosexuality, and discrimination. Starring Tom Hanks in an Academy Award-winning role as Andrew Beckett, a talented lawyer who is secretly gay and suffering from AIDS, the film portrays his legal battle against his former law firm for wrongful dismissal. Alongside Hanks, Denzel Washington plays the role of Joe Miller, a small-time lawyer who initially harbors prejudices but eventually takes up Beckett's case, leading to an unlikely but compelling partnership. 

"Philadelphia" is celebrated not only for its compelling narrative and powerful performances but also for bringing attention to the stigma and misconceptions associated with AIDS and homosexuality during a time when such topics were largely taboo in mainstream cinema. 

The soundtrack of "Philadelphia" is as impactful as the film itself, featuring a collection of songs that perfectly capture the movie's emotional depth and social themes. The most iconic track is Bruce Springsteen's "Streets of Philadelphia," which not only won the Academy Award for Best Original Song but also became a symbol of the era's struggle against AIDS. The song's haunting melody and poignant lyrics offer a deeply personal perspective on the film's themes, resonating with the struggles of the main character.

Additionally, the soundtrack includes an equally moving song by Neil Young, titled "Philadelphia," which plays during a crucial scene in the film. The careful selection of songs and the original score by Howard Shore work together to amplify the film's emotional impact, making the "Philadelphia" soundtrack an integral part of the film's enduring legacy in cinema and social commentary.

Track Listing

Streets Of Philadelphia
Bruce Springsteen

Lovetown
Peter Gabriel

It's In Your Eyes
Pauletta Washington

Ibo Lele (Dreams Come True)
Ram

Please Send Me Someone To Love
Sade

Have You Ever Seen The Rain?
Spin Doctors

I Don't Wanna Talk About It
Indigo Girls

La Mamma Morta
Maria Callas

Philadelphia
Neil Young

Precedent
Howard Shore

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