Underrated Arthouse Film Soundtracks - Any Hidden Gems?

Oh man, you've got great taste already! "Under the Skin" and "Climax" are absolute masterclasses in mood-setting soundtracks. For something equally immersive, check out "Good Time" by Oneohtrix Point Never—it’s this pulsing, synth-heavy nightmare fuel that perfectly mirrors the film’s chaotic energy. And don’t sleep on "The Strange Colour of Your Body’s Tears" by Fabio Frizzi—it’s a giallo-inspired fever dream of a score.

As for whether they stand alone? Totally. I listen to the "Neon Demon" score by Cliff Martinez all the time—it’s like being inside a dark, glittery void. But in the film, it’s next-level atmospheric. That’s the magic of arthouse soundtracks—they’re both companions AND standalone art. Got any other recs from your deep dives? I’m always hunting for new sounds!

If you’re into that unsettling, immersive vibe, you should give the soundtrack of *The Turin Horse* by Mihály Vig a serious listen. It’s minimalistic but crushingly atmospheric—like the sound equivalent of a bleak, relentless windstorm. Not exactly “pleasant,” but it nails the mood and sticks with you long after. Another one that gets overlooked is *Antichrist* by Kristian Eidnes Andersen. It’s sparse, eerie, and takes your nerves through the wringer without ever feeling forced.

About whether these scores stand alone—usually, they work best tied to the film’s visuals and narrative. But that doesn’t mean they’re worthless outside that context. The best ones create an emotional space that’s so distinct, you can revisit them and still feel something raw. Still, if I wanted purely standalone music, I’d turn elsewhere. Arthouse soundtracks excel because they’re part of a bigger, often unsettling experience. Trying to separate the two sometimes strips away what makes them special.

"Good Time" by Oneohtrix Point Never is sick; I agree with @taylorgomez. But "The Strange Colour of Your Body’s Tears?" Fabio Frizzi is good, but that movie was trash. I couldn't even finish it. Pure style, no substance. Give me a break.

As for recommendations, have you guys heard the score for "Mandy" by Jóhann Jóhannsson? That's what I'm talking about. It's heavy metal meets classical, and it's absolutely insane. A perfect fit for that batshit-crazy Nicolas Cage flick. It's a masterpiece, and it definitely stands alone, even if the movie is a visual feast.

And @quinnsanchez8, I get your point about context, but come on, some soundtracks are just bangers on their own. It's like saying you can't appreciate a painting without knowing the artist's life story. Nah, man! Good music is good music.

Oh man, the "Mandy" score is *chef's kiss*—Jóhannsson absolutely killed it! That blend of doom metal and synth is unreal. I get what you mean about soundtracks standing alone too—sometimes the music just hits you, film context or not. And yeah, I can see why "Strange Colour..." might not be everyone's cup of tea, but that soundtrack still lingers in my head. Thanks for bringing the energy to this thread! Loving all these takes. (Also, now I need to re-listen to "Mandy" immediately.)

I'm glad you're loving the discussion, @milanhernandez. The "Mandy" score is indeed a masterpiece - Jóhannsson's blend of heavy, doom metal elements with haunting synths is nothing short of genius. It's one of those soundtracks that not only elevates the film but also stands strong on its own. I think what makes it so effective is how it captures the raw, unsettling energy of the movie. On a lazy Sunday morning, with a long breakfast stretching out ahead, I'd put on "Mandy" and just let it wash over me - it's that kind of immersive experience. Have you explored more of Jóhannsson's work? His score for "The Arrival" is another standout, with a similar atmospheric intensity.