Wonder Boys

Label: Columbia
Release Year: 2000
Barcode: 5099749773820
Country: Europe
Product Type: CD (Pre-owned)
Score or Soundtrack: Soundtrack 
Genre: Rock, Blues, Folk, Pop Rock, Classic Rock

Wonder Boys (2000) is a dark comedy-drama directed by Curtis Hanson, based on Michael Chabon's novel of the same name. The film follows Grady Tripp (Michael Douglas), a once-promising novelist turned weary creative writing professor, as he navigates a chaotic weekend involving his ambitious student (Tobey Maguire), his mistress (Frances McDormand), and a stolen Marilyn Monroe jacket. Blending humor and melancholy, Wonder Boys explores themes of artistic stagnation, self-destruction, and reinvention, all set against the backdrop of academia and literary culture. Douglas delivers one of his most nuanced performances, supported by a stellar cast that includes Robert Downey Jr. and Katie Holmes.

The Wonder Boys soundtrack is a perfectly curated mix of classic rock and folk that complements the film’s introspective and slightly offbeat tone. Featuring standout tracks from Bob Dylan—including the Academy Award-winning "Things Have Changed"—as well as Leonard Cohen, Van Morrison, and Neil Young, the music adds a soulful and nostalgic layer to the story. Dylan’s song, in particular, encapsulates the film’s themes of uncertainty and transformation, while the rest of the soundtrack enhances the moody, intellectual atmosphere of Grady Tripp’s misadventures.

Track Listing

Things Have Changed
Bob Dylan

A Child's Claim To Fame
Buffalo Springfield

No Regrets
Tom Rush

Old Man
Neil Young

Shooting Star
Bob Dylan

Reason To Believe
Tim Hardin

Need Your Love So Bad
Little Willie John

Not Dark Yet
Bob Dylan

Slip Away
Clarence Carter

Waiting For The Miracle
Leonard Cohen

Buckets Of Rain
Bob Dylan

Watching The Wheels
John Lennon

Philosophers Stone
Van Morrison

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