2) California Dreamin’ – Chungking Express
Quentin Tarantino once boasted that Chungking Express was a personal favorite of his, saying he was “just so happy to love a movie this much.” Those who only know of the film as a romantic drama from the sublime Hong Kong director Wong Kar-Wai and who have not seen it may be surprised that the Pulp Fiction director adored this rather obscure, offbeat title. Those who have and can remember its vibrant visuals, its unconventional narrative structure – two separate stories with similar themes and characters – and dreamy pop soundtrack though, probably are not surprised in the least that Tarantino’s a fan.
One of that director’s trademarks is using adored pop tunes in surprising places, so he probably found much joy and charm in the placement of The Mamas and the Papas’ California Dreamin’, a swooning staple of the sixties, as the de facto song in Wong’s film. Fast food eatery kitchen-hand Faye (played by pop musician Faye Wong) swings and dances to the tune behind the counter, as the song accentuates her dream to leave Hong Kong and go on her own adventure. At the same time, she falls for the handsome cop (played by Tony Leung), who she forms a playful friendship with but actually has deep feelings for.
In the lush world of Wong’s cinema, pop songs are tied to the mood and characters. She plays the two-and-a-half minute song eight times during the film’s second half, yet its repetition does not irritate one bit. The song has significance, the lyrics of longing and desire an entrance into the lovelorn nature and ennui of the character. The “California” in the song is not one of sunny skies and beaches, but a faint glimmer of hope that is far, far away. Due to Wong’s expressive soundtrack and brilliant placement within the confines of a Hong Kong marketplace, the opening strum makes us long for the brightness of not just California, but of a hyperactive, ravishing Hong Kong.