Music plays a crucial role in television, transforming from background noise to a key narrative element that enriches storytelling. The live-action adaptation of Tsukasa Hôjô’s Cat’s Eyes exemplifies this, featuring a soundtrack that blends contemporary sounds with nostalgic 80s influences. Each episode’s music adapts to its unique atmosphere, from baroque styles in Versailles to vibrant 70s rock, enhancing character depth and emotional resonance. The meticulous selection of tracks, including classics and original compositions, underscores the series’ commitment to storytelling through sound.
The Role of Music in Television Series
In the realm of television, music transcends its traditional role as mere background sound; it evolves into a vital narrative component. Each note and harmony enhances the storytelling, enriches the atmosphere, and provides fresh insights into the characters and their journeys.
Exploring the Soundtrack of Cat’s Eyes
The live-action adaptation of Tsukasa Hôjô’s manga, Cat’s Eyes, showcases how music can define a series’ essence. The show’s soundtrack, far from simply complementing the visuals, embodies its unique identity within a vibrant and eclectic pop soundscape.
How was this captivating soundtrack crafted to mirror the escapades of the three protagonists? The creators aimed for a harmonious fusion of contemporary sounds intertwined with nostalgic 80s elements, a decade that holds a special place in Hôjô’s storytelling.
During a press conference at the La Rochelle Fiction Festival last September, the production team shared, “Our goal was to curate a modern musical landscape while incorporating subtle nods to the 80s, as Cat’s Eyes is often associated with that era.” To establish a distinctive identity, the team experimented with various musical styles, recognizing that each episode presents a unique atmosphere. Thus, the soundtrack evolves and adapts to fit the narrative’s diverse scenes and moments.
For instance, in episode 3, set in the opulent surroundings of Versailles, the music shifts to a “slightly more baroque” style, capturing the essence of the location. Meanwhile, certain sequences feature the spirited energy of 70s rock, with “super groovy” tracks that resonate with the dynamic personalities of the heroines.
The rich and varied musical landscape reflects a commitment to blending a “contemporary and slightly pop” vibe, as noted by one of the series’ producers. Rock music particularly shines, aligning perfectly with the “ultra-rock” spirit of the three leading ladies.
Additionally, the series incorporates iconic songs such as “My Sharona” by The Knack, “Take on Me” by A-Ha, and “J’irai où tu iras” by Céline Dion, while original compositions by François Liétout further enhance the ambiance. His approach focused on integrating familiar sounds reminiscent of childhood and animated shows, creating a balanced mix that fosters a deeper connection between viewers and the characters, adding emotional depth to the storyline.
Ultimately, Cat’s Eyes is a series where director Alexandre Laurent dedicated significant effort to the music selection. “We invested a lot of time into it,” he revealed, emphasizing the importance of creating contrasts and exploring the feel-good elements alongside poignant moments. For instance, during breakup scenes, Laurent chose upbeat tracks to juxtapose the visuals, highlighting the complexity of emotions conveyed through the music.
From electro beats to pop melodies, along with baroque influences and 70s rock, each musical piece intricately shapes the identity of Cat’s Eyes, marking a triumphant achievement in storytelling through sound.