Queen's Cinematic Legacy: The Overlooked Soundtrack of 'Flash Gordon'
When discourse and documentaries about Queen focus on their groundbreaking music and iconic live performances, it is not uncommon for many of their less-known projects to be overlooked. This extends to the cinematic realm, where Queen's influence is far-reaching but often underappreciated. One such example is their work on the 1980 film 'Flash Gordon'. Despite contributing to the soundtrack, this contribution is frequently omitted in discussions and portrayals of the band's legacy.
The Curious Case of the Flash Gordon Soundtrack
The Flash Gordon soundtrack has garnered relatively little attention in the larger narrative of Queen's prolific output. Released in 1980, the film was an adaptation of the classic science fiction comic strip. While the movie itself was not a critical or financial success, the music composed by Queen, particularly the titular track, stands as a testament to the band's versatility and skill.
When biopics of Queen such as Rhapsody in Red and other promotional materials often highlight the band's live gigs, studio albums, and the legendary "Live Aid" performances, the Flash Gordon soundtrack disappears from the spotlight. This omission is puzzling given that the soundtrack has had a lasting impact, particularly on fans of the band and film enthusiasts.
Exploring the Reasons for the Omission
Much like how a documentary can ignore key elements of a subject's life, a documentary about Queen might choose to focus on their defining moments and most successful ventures. However, this selective focus should not be at the expense of other significant contributions, especially those that demonstrate the full breadth of the band's musical talent.
Another reason for the omission could be the film's commercial and critical failure. 'Flash Gordon' did not match the box office success of other films of its era, which might explain why lesser-known aspects, such as the soundtrack, are often overlooked.
Highlighting the Significance of the 'Flash Gordon' Soundtrack
The Flash Gordon soundtrack has, in fact, left a lasting legacy. The band composed several memorable and evocative tracks for the film, including the titular theme song, "Flash Gordon's Theme," which became one of Queen's more recognisable instrumental pieces. This track seamlessly blends the band's distinctive sound with the grandiose atmosphere of the film, effectively capturing the essence of 1980s science fiction.
Moreover, the soundtrack included other notable tracks like "Kitty Galore's Theme" and "Darn That Dream," which not only contributed to the film's storyline but also showcased Queen's range in composition. These pieces, while not as well-known as songs from their main discography, are still cherished by fans of the band and the film.
The Need for a Comprehensive Narrative
The comprehensive narrative of Queen's story should indeed include all facets of their artistic expression, including their work in the film industry. Failing to acknowledge their contribution to the soundtrack of 'Flash Gordon' not only detracts from the full understanding of the band but also loses an opportunity to explore the depth of their musical talent.
film documentaries about Queen should strive to integrate their complete body of work, from studio albums to film soundtracks. By doing so, these documentaries can offer a richer and more inclusive portrait of the band's legacy. This comprehensive approach would also help to underscore the band's ability to adapt to different genres and mediums, further cementing their place as one of the most versatile and influential acts in music history.
Conclusion: Filling the Gaps in Queen's Documentary
To properly document Queen's extensive legacy, it is imperative that their work in the film industry is not overlooked. The soundtrack to 'Flash Gordon' is a testament to the band's adaptability and creativity, showcasing their ability to produce compelling music for storytelling both on and off the concert stage. By addressing this gap in future documentaries, we can ensure a more complete and nuanced understanding of Queen's immense contributions to music and cinema.
In summary, while documentaries about Queen are filled with iconic performances and chart-topping hits, they should also include the band's lesser-known projects, such as their soundtrack contributions. This will not only provide a more comprehensive view of Queen's career but also honor the band's full range of artistic output.