Editor’s Note: The Albumism staff has selected what we believe to be the 100 Greatest Soundtracks of All Time, representing a varied cross-section of films and musical genres. Click “Next Soundtrack” below to explore each soundtrack in the list or for easier navigation, view the full introduction & soundtrack index here.
Looking for Mr. Goodbar
Columbia (1977)
Selected by Justin Chadwick
Inspired by the real-life 1973 murder of New York City schoolteacher Roseann Quinn and adapted from Judith Rossner’s 1975 novel of the same name, Looking for Mr. Goodbar is a profoundly unsettling—and ultimately brutal—examination of sexual liberation and promiscuity gone tragically awry at the hands of misogyny-fueled violence. Beyond its disturbing plotline, the film remains notable for its strong lead performance by Dianne Keaton (as the Chicago-based teacher Theresa Dunn), who was in the midst of her Woody Allen-supported career ascendance at the time, as well as the early-career roles played by Richard Gere, Tom Berenger and LeVar Burton.
Also notable is the film’s soundtrack, a snapshot of popular music in the latter half of the ‘70s and the perfect accompaniment to Dunn’s active nightlife. Massive hit singles by Thelma Houston (“Don’t Leave Me This Way”), Diana Ross (“Love Hangover”), The O’Jays (“Back Stabbers”) and Boz Scaggs (“Lowdown”) rub sonic shoulders with three entries by Donna Summer, two from Bill Withers and the memorable theme song courtesy of Marlena Shaw.
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