Despite claims that Eurovision entries generally don’t have a life beyond the contest, songs at the contest have a way of finding their way into mainstream pop culture. The latest example appears in Edgar Wright’s latest film, “Last Night in Soho”, which features Eurovision winner “Puppet on a String” by Sandie Shaw.
Sandie Shaw Featured on the Soundtrack
The soundtrack, which was released on October 22nd, features a number of songs synonymous with the film’s 1960s’ setting. “Puppet on a String”, recorded by Sandie Shaw and released in 1967, won the UK its first Eurovision title that same year. The song peaked atop the UK Singles Chart on 27th April 1967, where it stayed for three weeks. Her Eurovision win also enabled the UK to host Eurovision in 1968. That contest was recently rebroadcast in full as part of Eurovision Again.
Shaw’s Eurovision entry is not her only appearance in “Last Night in Soho”. Her version of Lou Johnson’s “(There’s) Always Something There to Remind Me” also features later on the film’s soundtrack. This recording was released in 1964 and also became a number one hit in the UK, although it was less successful in other countries.
Both of Sandie Shaw’s efforts here tie into the film’s fondness for the 1960s as well as its central plot. Other iconic artists featured include Dusty Springfield, Cilla Black, and The Who. The film itself takes its title from the song “Last Night in Soho” by Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich.
About “Last Night in Soho”
“Last Night in Soho” is the latest feature from acclaimed British director Edgar Wright. His previous films include the zombie comedy “Shaun of the Dead” and the crime caper “Baby Driver”. Wright is known for carefully curating the soundtracks for his films. For a deeper analysis, check out this video by the YouTube channel CinemaWins. “Last Night in Soho” is his first venture into the psychological horror genre
“Soho” follows aspiring fashion designer Eloise, whose fondness for the 1960s causes her to travel back in time during her dreams. She inhabits the body of a singer named Sandie and attempts to visit the past more and more. As she continues her lifestyle, however, the seemingly perfect veneer of the 60s’ begins to fall apart with horrifying consequences.
The film’s cast includes Thomasin McKenzie, Anya Taylor-Joy, Matt Smith, and Dame Diana Rigg in her final film role.
One of the film’s settings is the iconic Cafe de Paris, which in recent years has played host to the annual London Eurovision Party in the lead-up to ESC.
Have you seen “Last Night in Soho”? Did you notice this Eurovision easter egg? Let us know in the comments or on social media. Be sure to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
News Source: Radio Times
Photo Source: EBU, Rolls Press, Getty Images
