Actor and musician Finn Wolfhard has shared his top picks for movie soundtracks and scores, offering insights that every music enthusiast should explore. Highlighting the influence films like School of Rock and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World had on his creative journey, Wolfhard’s selections reflect his deep connection to both the music and film industries, tying in with the ongoing buzz around Finn Wolfhard favorite movie soundtracks and scores.
Wolfhard, known for fronting the band Calpurnia and performing with The Aubreys, is preparing for the release of his debut solo album “Happy Birthday” on June 6th. Despite only being 22, he’s balanced life as a prominent actor in Stranger Things, filmmaker, and committed musician for nearly a decade. Wolfhard credits certain films and their soundtracks for motivating him to pursue music, revealing how intertwined his passions are. For instance, he has said that classics such as School of Rock and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World were significant in inspiring him to pick up an instrument.
Wolfhard’s Perspective on Innovative Film Composers
Sitting down with Consequence during the promotion of his co-written and co-directed film Hell of a Summer with Billy Bryk, Wolfhard provided a passionate overview of the movie scores that have shaped his artistic outlook. He shows particular admiration for composers who push creative boundaries, noting his reverence for Jon Brion, who features three times among Wolfhard’s favorite selections.
Jon Brion might be one of my favorite living composers,
—Finn Wolfhard, Actor/Musician
Wolfhard describes Brion’s melodies as consistently beautiful and versatile, emphasizing their appeal both inside the films and as independent listening experiences.
He’s the king of beautiful melodies that you can listen to whenever.
—Finn Wolfhard, Actor/Musician
The Enduring Impact of Scores That Transcend Their Films
Wolfhard highlights how certain film soundtracks and scores are not only memorable in the context of their movies but also serve as strong standalone albums. He expresses special praise for Brion’s work on Magnolia, noting its unique ability to function as both a companion to the film and a compelling musical work on its own.
I’ve never really heard a soundtrack that you can listen to, but it’s also the underscoring to a pretty dramatic film,
—Finn Wolfhard, Actor/Musician
This insight from Wolfhard sets the tone for his wider list, where he includes a mixture of innovative and heartfelt compositions. The selection spans from Alex Turner’s subtle score for Submarine to the genre-crossing electronic style of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross on The Social Network. These choices, Wolfhard suggests, all possess a distinct character and listenability that elevate them beyond mere background music.
Finn Wolfhard’s Top 10 Must-Own Movie Soundtracks and Scores
Wolfhard’s curated list, intended for fans and fellow artists, features soundtracks and scores he believes are essential for every collection. While the complete numbered list is referenced in his interviews, highlights include works from Sing Street, School of Rock, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, and Magnolia. He points out that many of these titles also appear on established lists of the top fictional bands in film history, underscoring their cultural influence.
With appreciation for composers like Jon Brion, and impactful entries from talents such as Alex Turner, Trent Reznor, and Atticus Ross, Wolfhard demonstrates a strong awareness of music’s storytelling power within cinema. His choices shed light on how movie soundtracks can inspire artists across mediums, connecting the work of musicians, filmmakers, and devoted fans.
As Finn Wolfhard continues to bridge the worlds of acting, music, and directing—with projects like his solo album and collaborations with creative partners like Billy Bryk—the attention he gives to carefully crafted film scores suggests more cross-medium artistry in his future. Music fans and cinephiles alike will find his favorite soundtracks worth a listen, reflecting a passionate blend of influences that define his own creative path.
