It might be time for movies to start using Britney Spears’ “Toxic” more often.
People layering pop anthems over climactic scenes in action movies isn’t new, but a remixed version of Thor: Ragnarok’s big battle in Asgard set to what is arguably Spears’ most popular song is gaining attention. It’s incredible. The scene is just as powerful and energetic as the original, which used Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song,” but somehow manages to be even more entertaining.
Maybe it’s because we don’t normally associate Spears, one of the biggest pop stars of the past few decades, with intense battle scenes. Studios don’t usually use “Toxic” for these types of choreographed fight routines, and it’s a damn shame. Remixers have used Spears’ hit countless times for some memorable on-camera fight scenes. Remember this little ditty from Star Wars: The Last Jedi?
Or this lengthy scene from Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier? “Toxic” doesn’t just make the entire fight more fierce, but also turns the Winter Soldier into a menacing figure.
The more severe the battle the better, but even low-intensity sequences work wonderfully. Loki’s grand entrance in The Avengers, when he showcases some of his true powers as the fearful demigod while intruding on a gala event in Germany, is made that much better with “Toxic.”
There’s a reason for this: It’s the same rationale behind why we edit trailers to include the Beastie Boys’ “Sabotage.” The anticipatory buildup before the chorus, followed by a thundering few seconds of intense instrumentals and vocals, is exciting. It especially works well with footage where people are gearing up to punch one another or enter into some kind of altercation.
Britney Spears’ “Toxic” is intertwined with internet culture. It’s become a meme multiple times, been incorporated into Vines and, as seen above, been instrumental in YouTube’s ongoing remix culture. It’s not surprising that people keep returning to the song as a way to turn a triumphant scene into something even more inspiring.
I would also just really appreciate if someone dubbed “Toxic” over just about any scene from any Fast and Furious movie.
