The 26 Most Essential Movie Soundtracks

Not every movie soundtrack has to go as hard as it does. The best soundtracks exist outside of the movie, giving you all the feelings you felt in the movie theater without the drama. It's like a mixtape (a.k.a. playlist) from your favorite movie to you. Here are 26 soundtracks, from time-honored classics to Disney jams and some new contenders, that know exactly what songs will go together for the perfect cinematic and musical experience.