“The Only Living Boy in New York” Understanding Simon & Garfunkel’s Masterpiece

Famous songs from the 60s and 70s that add color to movies

By the way, this film also features many other classic songs from the late 60s and 70s. For example, the song that the neighbor plays in the room is Lou Reed's "Perfect Day." This song, released in 1972, sings about how "you" make it a "perfect day" (it's also said to be a love song or a drug song).

In the wedding scene, "A Whiter Shade of Pale," released by Procol Harum in 1967, is played, featuring an extremely memorable organ sound reminiscent of classical music.

Furthermore, in the film's most important, fast-paced scene, an alternative version of Bob Dylan's 1966 seven-and-a-half-minute masterpiece " Visions of Johanna " plays (coincidentally, the "older woman" played by Kate Beckinsale is also named Johanna). What both songs have in common is that the lyrics are full of metaphors and do not lend themselves to a so-called "this is the answer!" interpretation (perhaps that's why they give the film a meaningful atmosphere). These also play a major role as an element that nostalgically evokes the "golden age of the past" that is mentioned many times in the film.

In that sense, the ending song "All We Ever Knew" by The Head & The Heart is like a ray of light shining from the present to the past and future. This contrast leaves a really pleasant aftertaste.

As expected from director Mark Webb, who made his way from the music video world to the film world. This film is just like him, captivating us with its many musical clues. By letting yourself go with the flow while watching, and then delving into the lyrics and production background after watching, you may be able to appreciate the story in a more multifaceted and deeper way.

Text: USHIZU ATSUNOBU

Born in Nagasaki in 1977. When he was 3 years old, he saw ``Superman II'' with his father and became fascinated with movies. After The Graduate from Meiji University, he worked for a movie broadcasting channel and then became a movie writer. Currently, in addition to writing for Eiga.com, EYESCREAM, Real Sound Movie Club, etc., he also contributes to media press and theater programs.

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"The Only Living Boy in New York"

Released nationwide from April 14th (Saturday), including Marunouchi Piccadilly and Shinjuku Piccadilly.

© 2017 AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC

Provided by: Vap, Long Ride Distribution: Long Ride

Official site: http://www.longride.jp/olb-movie/

*Information at the time of article publication in April 2018.