When Alan Menken was tapped last year to provide an original song for Joe Johnston’s “Captain America: The First Avenger,” I had no idea how that made any sense. Not that Menken isn’t able to branch out of his typical milieu, but it just didn’t really compute for this material.
When I finally saw the film (more when the embargo lifts tomorrow), it all clicked perfectly. “Star Spangled Man” is a rah-rah U.S.O. tune akin to something like “Over There” or what have you, and it’s right up Menken’s alley. So, as it turned out, they wanted him for what he’s best at: song and dance numbers.
The song — which could earn Menken a record-tying 20th Oscar nomination if the Academy’s music branch thinks it’s deserving — plays over a montage in the film and, given that, will be a stand-out exhibition when they screen the eligible tracks in the context of the various films at year’s end. So, watch out.
Have a listen to “Star Spangled Man” below. And remember, once the Best Original Song race begins to heat up later this year, be sure to keep track of everything via the category’s dedicated page here.
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20 responses to “Listen to Alan Menken’s ‘Star Spangled Man’ from ‘Captain America: The First Avenger’”
The tone sounds spot on, but it feels too much like a parody for me to think Academy voters will take it seriously. I dunno, maybe that’s just me…
I don’t think the possible parody factor will play against it – it’s Menken, and as long as it plays nicely through the narrative, it could get in and/or win.
Plus, they nominated “Blame Canada” of all things.
BTW, while we’re on the subject of Best Original Song, Kris, how do you feel about Winnie the Pooh’s repertoire? Do you think there are chances for any of the story songs, or Zooey Deschanel’s contributions are more likely to get a nod out of star power?
Sure, why not? #tooearly
… :( oh bother.
It’s a nice little ditty but I think the song needed more Cher ;) .
#lastyear
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No song needs Cher. Not nominating that song from Burlesque was one of the Academy’s best decisions last year.
Anyway, it’s a really great tune, but I’m looking forward to hearing it in context before I give a full opinion. I’m actually disappointed they didn’t nominate Richard Sherman’s song for Iron Man 2 last year, but maybe this will be more their cup of tea.
I really like the song. seems like a fun sequence
I feel like if any summer blockbuster gets a load of nominations, it’ll be Captain America.
Thor should get costumes
I’m assuming the breaks in between singing in the beginning are due to dialog or loud action taking place as part of the montage (which we don’t hear in this music only version). Otherwise I’d complain that musically the song sputters for the first half before getting lift-off – but that would be unfair if the breaks are there to accommodate the storytelling.
That said, it is a solid piece of writing and captures the era perfectly, if not especially imaginatively or with originality. Menken is bringing his B-game, not A-game here. It pales compared to his most iconic compositions and pales compared to the best patriotic tunes of the era too. I’m sure it serves the movie just fine, but it sounds more workmanlike and “appropriate” to me than touched with that extra dose of inspiration that would lift it above the ordinary.
OK. That song is a hellofalot of fun. I haven’t been at all interested to see this one, but some of this stuff is looking good.
Sounds like a good show tune.
Sounds like the beginnings of the eventual, inevitable “Captain America: The Broadway Musical”.
The song is even better when you can watch the dancing showgirls with it. They did a heck of a job.
Not that this make it a lock, but its the first thing I would even think of nominating thus far.
#unnessecaryhashtag
The breaks in the lyrics are for when Captain America speaks his propoganda-fied speech.
And it should be noted that the song’s lyrics are by David Zippel, previously Oscar nominated for music for “Hercules” and “Mulan”.
This song makes me proud to be an American. loved the movie! The song was a big surprise! Obne big fabulous surprise! I will definitely vote it # 1 for an Academy Award! My 90 year old Aunt Pearle was humming along! She is a WW2 baby!! it moved her to tears. Thanks Alan for one perfect moment!!
I forgot to say, If they make THIS into a broadway musical, count me in! I will definitely become an investor!!
How to download this by the way? Anyone can show me any link please :)