Love Letters in the Modern Era

A playlist inspired by loving and losing.

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When we lose a significant person in our lives, we also lose a part of ourselves. This must have been what filmmakers Sofia Coppola and Spike Jonze felt when they got divorced back in 2003—the same year that Coppola's melancholic film, Lost in Translation was released. Their breakup was so fresh at the time that it was nearly impossible to neglect the film's connection to their personal lives. In fact, its main character, played by Scarlett Johannson, was feeling isolated in her relationship due to her partner’s hectic work schedule, which was similar to Spike Jonze’s career. A couple that could be on the verge of separation due to lack of communication.

Flash forward to 2013, ten years after the divorce, Jonze released his film Her. It was difficult not to relate it with their separation since its main character, played by Joaquin Phoenix, was having a difficult time moving on from his divorce. The film was almost like a response to Lost in Translation.

With this in mind, we can say that Lost in Translation serves as the pre-breakup film while Her represents the aftermath and the difficulty of moving forward. As viewers see these plots unfold, they can also feast their eyes on the picturesque scenery of Tokyo and futuristic America. Unfortunately, not one of the two filmmakers will ever confess that these two films are connected to each other.

This playlist is a collection of handpicked songs from the films' soundtracks, bringing you the roller coaster ride that happens inside relationships right from the sweet beginnings 'til the difficult ends.

lost in her from spoliarivm on 8tracks Radio.

Playlist by Jazz

Art by Yas

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Jazz Adornado is a sucker for alternative music and all things coming-of-age. She's usually spotted geeking about Wes Anderson films and her favorite TV shows.

Yas is a graphic design student, an aspiring illustrator, and a space enthusiast -- all tossed into one convenient trail mix. She loves to write poems about ghosts, make feelings-induced short comics, and create hella cool playlists. She is currently building her nest over at tideline.tumblr.com.