Did the terrible theme song lead to the demise of the show?

POSTED BY: KD
UPDATED: Thursday, January 26, 2006 05:15
VIEWED: 26797
PAGE 1 of 1

KD

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 7:30 AM

I mean, I think Joss Whedon may have a good sense of dialogue but that song is awful.
Can anyone tell me where in the show the movie takes place? Is it just a remake of the episode Serenity or does it start after Rivers and the Doctor have joined the crew?

SERGEANTX

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 7:38 AM

I suppose that's a matter of opinion. I loved the theme song the first time I heard it. I think it really sets up the key things that make Firefly different from most sci-fi. Sorry to hear you didn't like it.

SergeantX

"Dream a little dream or you can live a little dream. I'd rather live it, cause dreamers always chase but never get it." Aesop Rock

ZOOT

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 8:25 AM

Bloody hell (she said in terribly Birtish fashion) but damn me if I don't love, I mean postively want to do the old fashioned marriage and babies thing with, the Firefly theme song!!!

I think "Once More With Feeling" certainly established Mr Whedon's credentials as a damn fine humourous song writer (a la Tom Lehrer (sp?)(see footnote 1)) but I like to think the FF theme tune is a little bit more grown up, a bit more Loudon Wainwright III ....

Footnote 1: I mean I ask you, genius or what?

"He snores
She wheezes
Say "housework," and he freezes
She eats these Skeezy cheeses,
That I can't describe
I talk,
He breezes
She doesn't know
What please is
His penis got diseases
From a chumash tribe "

***************************************

Okay, I'm lost, I'm angry, and I'm
armed.

FRAY101

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 8:33 AM

I think we dedicated Browncoats have grown to love the song, but let's be honest - it's not going to appeal to everyone. Having said that, I'd hate to think anyont would be shallow enough to stop watching a show just because of the theme tune!

What's more pertinent perhaps, as raised in one of the essays in "Finding Serenity" is that Joss was taking a risk creating a western when there's little interest in those anymore.

And yes - Once More With Feeling is sheer genius. Was travelling to London at the weekend and ended up listening to it three times in a row! Never get tired of it - there's the comedy element referred to above but also those beautiful songs sung by Tara & Giles. The latter in particular just gets me everytime.

Oh, to get back to one of the original queries - no it's not a rehash of Serenity. It takes place after the events of the series.

_____________________________________

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Over 100 Serenity screencaps now available at www.destinything.com.

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ZOOT

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 8:52 AM

Ah the Giles song - you are right - sweet and tender as well as funny - and I absolutely love Where Do We Go From Here - and yes I listen to it in my car (well, sing along) all the time!

I think they should do a "Sing Along A Once More With Feeling" at the Prince Charles behind Leicester Square like they did with the Sound of Mucus and Rocky Horror - I'd go!!

***************************************

Okay, I'm lost, I'm angry, and I'm
armed.

DAIKATH

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 9:21 AM

It still aint as bad as..

'It's been a long road, getting from there to here, i't's been along time but my time is finally here. I can feel the change in the wind right now, nothing is in my way and they are not gonna me hold no more, no they are not gonna hold me down. Cuz I got faith the heart.'

Etc

FRAY101

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 9:34 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Zoot:
Ah the Giles song - you are right - sweet and tender as well as funny - and I absolutely love Where Do We Go From Here - and yes I listen to it in my car (well, sing along) all the time!

I think they should do a "Sing Along A Once More With Feeling" at the Prince Charles behind Leicester Square like they did with the Sound of Mucus and Rocky Horror - I'd go!!

***************************************

Okay, I'm lost, I'm angry, and I'm
armed.

I'd be right there with you!

_____________________________________

Visit the Browncoats' Photo 'Verse at http://disneypix.tripod.com/photoverse or http://clik.to/photoverse

Over 100 Serenity screencaps now available at www.destinything.com.

www.cafepress.com/destinything www.cafepress.com/ancientone
www.cafepress.com/fireflyclass

ZOOT

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 9:44 AM

*thinks* perhaps someone should look into this ... that'd be a nice little project!

***************************************

Okay, I'm lost, I'm angry, and I'm
armed.

ZOIC

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 1:38 PM

Quote:
Did the terrible theme song lead to the demise of the show?

I think you might have Firefly confuse with Enterprise. Firefly is the one with the GOOD theme song and Enterprise is the one with BAD theme song.

Seriously, I think you are possibly the only person on the planet that does not like the Firefly theme song. It's kind of like being the only person on the planet that likes the Enterprise theme song.

GWEK

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 1:38 PM

I love the Firefly theme. But then, I'm also the one person on Earth who likes the Enterprise theme, so maybe I'm not the best judge...

As far as lyricked theme songs go, I think they're both good. Of course, the best themes usually don't have words: even years later, I think Battlestar Galactica and The A-Team are top of the charts.

FRAY101

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 1:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by GWEK:
I love the Firefly theme. But then, I'm also the one person on Earth who likes the Enterprise theme, so maybe I'm not the best judge...

As far as lyricked theme songs go, I think they're both good. Of course, the best themes usually don't have words: even years later, I think Battlestar Galactica and The A-Team are top of the charts.

Both classics!

Never heard the Enterprise theme tune so can't comment. But I'm still prepared to concede that many people won't like the Firefly theme tune. Doesn't make them bad people (well, not too bad) and as I said above, I certainly hope they wouldn't avoid the show just because of it. But it's clearly not going to be to everyone's tastes.

_____________________________________

Visit the Browncoats' Photo 'Verse at http://disneypix.tripod.com/photoverse or http://clik.to/photoverse

Over 100 Serenity screencaps now available at www.destinything.com.

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www.cafepress.com/fireflyclass

GWEK

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 2:08 PM

When I say I like the Firefly song, I should probably also point out that I'm a big Country fan, so I'm inclined in that direction anyway.

Speaking from experience, there are lots of shows with credit sequences I don't like: I use that time to get a snack rather than choosing not to watch the show, which is just silly.

Can't remember what it is right now, but there was a show in the past few years that had an opening sequence that I hated so much it would actually make me a little queasy. So I just recorded it every week so I could have the satisfaction of fast-forwarding through it. Lemons into lemonade!

GTMAN8503

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 2:18 PM

Actually, I knew I would love the show from the minute I heard the theme song. I love westerns and country-western music, and to see those combined with science fiction...oh man, that's my idea of heaven. My two favorite genres together with my favorite music...nothing better.

Oh, and "Serenity" takes place 6 months after Objects in Space.

QUIETUDE

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 2:27 PM

And from someone who greatly dislikes Country music, I have to say that I sometimes find myself humming the Firefly theme song (and singing when no one can hear), I didn't choose the name Quietude for nothing, although it was in the Thesaurus for another word for Serenity.

As for people who do and don't like something, even Inara voted for the Alliance.

Take me where I can not stand (the bar after several pints, especially on Re-Unification Day).

I was going to mention the Enterprise theme song, but everybody has gotten there before me. But here is one question my ears cannot answer in regards to it, there is one line that sounds like 'No one's going to bend or rape me', kind of Nirvana, but I must be hearing it wrong. Its likely 'break' instead of 'rape' so the singer needs to take some enunciation lessons from Sean Maher.

STARRBABY

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 2:35 PM

I'll admit I didn't really care for the theme song in the beginging, but now I adore it. I really like the ending credits where it's just insturmental.

I recently saw a fan vid where someone set the trailer to the theme. I thought it was wonderful. When I first saw the trailer I didn't hink it had the "Firefly" feel to it. After it was put to the theme music it was a spittin' image of the series. It's amazing what music can do.

For example, do you really think Jaws would have been as cool w/out the music? How about Psycho? I haven't seen the BDM yet, but I really hope the soundtrack has that same gritty western feel to it.

okay . .. I'll shut up now.

CALLMESERENITY

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 2:59 PM

I'm another one that didn't like the theme song right off that bat (I don't like country, either) but it's grown on me and now I find myself singing it all the time. I make up my own words. I think for me, it just became part of the whole Firefly experience, rather than just the westerny theme song.

And I'm SO glad someone brought up Enterprise before me, because I CANNOT stand that song, and it may be one of the reasons I stopped watching the show (that and it wasn't holding my attention.)

"What's the use of a house if you haven't got a tolerable planet to put it on?"-H.D. Thoreau

BROWNCOAT1

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 3:31 PM

I LOVE the Ballad of Serenity! I get goosebumps everytime I hear it and I am always compelled to sing along.

__________________________________________

"May have been the losing side. Still not convinced it was the wrong one."

Richmond, VA & surrounding area Firefly Fans:

http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/richmondbrowncoats/

VENA

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 3:41 PM

I loved the theme song. When it was still on the air, hearing it was my favorite thing about Friday night. I was like Pavlov's Theme song=good TV so I would come running.

Because I am an American. And what does an American want? Democracy? Capitalism. I want to sell out and settle down. For one day only, it's a blue light special on Aisle Three. My wormhole technology... and a free set of steak knives... for all the tea in China. And anything you can imagine to pay me... welcome to my cold war.

CLJOHNSTON108

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 3:43 PM

The lyrics of the "Ballad of Serenity" speak to me.

Very much like...

"Man on the Corner" by Genesis
"New World Man" by Rush
and
"On the Turning Away" by Pink Floyd

---------------

"Slideshow... Boring... Losing consciousness!"
--The Tick

FRAY101

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 3:56 PM

I have it as my ringtone....

Just a shame noone ever calls me

_____________________________________

Visit the Browncoats' Photo 'Verse at http://disneypix.tripod.com/photoverse or http://clik.to/photoverse

Over 100 Serenity screencaps now available at www.destinything.com.

www.cafepress.com/destinything, www.cafepress.com/ancientone and
www.cafepress.com/fireflyclass

MIKEYMO

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 4:06 PM

I didn't really like the theme song the first time or two I heard it... in my case, it wasn't until I had a 'feel' for the 'verse, and what Mal had gone through, that the song really connected.

Of course, if I didn't watch a show just because the theme song sucked, I would've turned Wonderfalls off 15 seconds in. Damn, that chorus is annoying as hell.

"Be ashamed to die before you have scored some victory for humanity." -- Horace Mann

ZEEK

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 5:51 PM

I really didn't like the theme song much myself when I first heard it. It took a while for me to accept it. That's the same for the whole show though.

I also have converted friends who still think the theme song is ridiculously stupid. They like the show though. So, I consider that acceptable.

Then again, I also am the type of person who won't go see cinderella man because of how terrible that title sounds. They might as well have called it fairy, girlie, fancypants man.

CHRISISALL

Monday, June 20, 2005 4:13 PM

I didn't have a feelin' one way or the other for the song untill a couple of eps into it, when the words started makin' sense to me. Now I love it and will be heartbroken if they don't include it in the BDM!!!

Take me where I cannot stand Chrisisall

AURAPTOR

Thursday, June 23, 2005 2:18 AM

The fact that KD has been a member since June 14 ( just over a week ago ) and hasn't been back to visit the site since the day after he/she posted the one and only thread so far suggest to me one thing.

Troll

" They don't like it when you shoot at 'em. I worked that out myself. "

STARRBABY

Thursday, June 23, 2005 2:41 AM

I'm inclined to agree with you, AURaptor, but only because he/she was only here long enough to rip on the theme song.
I didn't think the post was trollish. Too intelligent and simply stating an opinion that differed from many flans' ideas.
However, as I mentioned, I agree the dates on his/her bio scream troll.

THUNDAR

Thursday, June 23, 2005 3:50 AM

I despise most Country music but I Lurv the theme song. It is my ring-tone too, the entire, actual, song. I get people asking me what that's from, opening the door for me to enlighten them.

JUSTMAUNDERING

Thursday, June 23, 2005 3:52 AM

In case there was genuine interest regarding the show by kd besides the theme song:

No, the movie is not a remake of the show. It's set several months after the show ends. a

SILMARWEN

Wednesday, June 29, 2005 2:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fray101:
I think we dedicated Browncoats have grown to love the song, but let's be honest - it's not going to appeal to everyone. Having said that, I'd hate to think anyont would be shallow enough to stop watching a show just because of the theme tune!

I thoroughly enjoyed the theme song, but it does have it's own taste. This song was specifically written to be kinda otherworldly or allworldly, I think you know what I mean. Anyhoo, I HOPE people wouldn't turn off a show just because of the theme music. I do know that my mom only started watching Third Watch (great show) because as she was flipping through stations their theme song caught her ear. I don't think that would work the other way around. Look at Family Guy's theme song. I'm sick of hearing it! But I really don't think I'd stop watching the show because of it. That's just silly.

THEDUKE

Wednesday, June 29, 2005 2:37 PM

The first time you hear ballad of serenity, it kinda just doesn't mean anything, then when it does mean something, don't u find yourself singing it with pride. Like bellowing out, unable to understand why others can't comprehend the geniousness, and passion, of what you're declairing?

We achieved the impossible, and that makes us mighty
The Duke
http://spaces.msn.com/members/hungarydave1986

CHANNAIN

Wednesday, June 29, 2005 3:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by KD:
I mean, I think Joss Whedon may have a good sense of dialogue but that song is awful.
Can anyone tell me where in the show the movie takes place? Is it just a remake of the episode Serenity or does it start after Rivers and the Doctor have joined the crew?

I'm sure you meant to say "that song is awful, IMO" right? Not everyone is of the same opinion, let's remember. And they're not afraid to tell you either, as you may have noticed

I'll admit, the theme put me off for a bit, due to the genetic aversion I have to country western music. I took it as such at first, then realized it actually has a blue grass tempo to it. I've grown to appreciate blue grass in recent years, which I probably should, since it has Scottish roots, same as I do.

Forgetting the tune for a moment, consider the lyrics. Even hating the tune, the words are very Firefly.

Not to mention, it has considerably less verses than "Hero of Canton" which makes the theme WAY easier to sing in the shower.

Quote:
The Duke said:
The first time you hear ballad of serenity, it kinda just doesn't mean anything, then when it does mean something, don't u find yourself singing it with pride. Like bellowing out, unable to understand why others can't comprehend the geniousness, and passion, of what you're declairing?

Utterly and completely. You said it better than I did.

StringSlinger does a FABULOUS rendition of it. He also wrote another tune that speaks more to the Battle of Serenity.

I draw...therefore I am. http://www.mnartists.org/Nora_Leverson
Live in Minnesota? Join the Group! Yahoo Group, that is...
http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/MN-Firefly

SIMONSAYS

Saturday, July 2, 2005 4:55 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by AURaptor:
The fact that KD has been a member since June 14 ( just over a week ago ) and hasn't been back to visit the site since the day after he/she posted the one and only thread so far suggest to me one thing.

Troll

" They don't like it when you shoot at 'em. I worked that out myself. "

The fact that KD does not have a cool avitar SCREAMS "TROLL!" KD, this is for you!

The song is very catchy. It quickly found it's way into my mind!

CEDRIC

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 3:48 PM

I don't like most of the Country music out there--but Southern Rock like "The Ballad of Serenity" is good.

BTW, does anyone know anything about Sonny Rhodes? What else has he done? Also, who is his fiddler? I think the fiddling really makes that song.

"You can't take my show from me,
Because I've got the DVD."
www.BedlamBards.com

SAFEAT2ND

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 4:31 PM

I'm not a huge country music fan either, but I really liked the theme song from the get go.

It probably helped that I watched O Brother Where Art Thou before I saw Firefly. If you get a chance, see that movie.

Apparently KD listens to the "sound" of music, but never actually LISTENS to music. Know what I'm sayin'?

"Befuddled, confused and more than just a little angry...."

WHITEFALL

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 5:04 PM

As much as I love the theme song after coming to understand it, (and peripherally before that, because you dont hear many lyric songs these days) i just want to disagree about the enterprise theme.

I actually liked the enterprise theme song, from the first time i heard it on the pilot, it's just a nice song. Imho, the problem is the show REALLY (really!!!!) didn't do it justice. The show seems like it was designed around the song, pigheaded idealism and all. Still, it's a nice song, imo.

"Some people juggle geese!" -Ancient Chinese proverb.

CALLMESERENITY

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 5:09 PM

I agree with Safeat2nd, I don't like country music at all. But some "southern rock" I like. Like Third Day. And I LOVED "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" Both the movie itself and the music. Now, would I have liked the music outside of the context of the movie? Not so much. But it was so perfect in the movie. And plus, I've read the Odyssey, so it was a hoot for me, comparing the two.

"Somebody has to do something, and it's just incredibly pathetic that it has to be us." ~Jerry Garcia

GREEKTOOMEY

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 5:36 PM

I'm inclined to agree that the OP is trollish, but I'll take the bait.

Every time I watch an episode, the theme song makes me feel like the world is a little bit brighter. For someone struggling with "issues" I find the theme to be inspirational. I hope I find serenity soon.

Re: Once More, With Feeling - my favorite part was Anya's power ballad about bunnies. I think I'm going to have to watch that episode again when I get home. *grin*

BADGERSHAT

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 6:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by KD:
I mean, I think Joss Whedon may have a good sense of dialogue but that song is awful.
Can anyone tell me where in the show the movie takes place? Is it just a remake of the episode Serenity or does it start after Rivers and the Doctor have joined the crew?

HOW DARE YOU!!!!!!!!!! The theme song is the single greatest musical creation since the evolution of singing birds!

And if you disagree, you're obviously unpatriotic to your country, you hate children, you eat puppies, and should be sterilized!!!!!

Actually, I happen to love the theme song, but I SUPPOSED I can understand that the style may not be everyone's favorite. Although, lyric wise, it's entirely perfect as a sort of backstory bit.

--Jefé The Hat

***************************
--So sayeth me, and that's all you need to know.

CALLMESERENITY

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 6:15 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by GreekToomey:
I hope I find serenity soon.

I'm right here!

Oh wait...

Also-I am another big fan of Anya's power ballad bunny song. It's just so funny. Her and her thing with bunnies cracks me up and it always makes me think of the killer rabbit from The Holy Grail.

"Somebody has to do something, and it's just incredibly pathetic that it has to be us." ~Jerry Garcia

SAFEAT2ND

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 6:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by CallMeSerenity:
Now, would I have liked the music outside of the context of the movie? Not so much. But it was so perfect in the movie. And plus, I've read the Odyssey, so it was a hoot for me, comparing the two.

Hit the nail on the head! I felt I recognized the storyline but couldn't place it until I bought the CD and read the booklet. And like Firefly, when the music is in context to the movie....perfection!

I too would be upset if the Ballad of Serenity is not in the movie.

Oh, and I don't have an avatar yet 'cause I can't find one that fits....please don't hate me for being unadorned. Or worst yet, clump me in with this KD person....

Righteously Indignant.

GREEKTOOMEY

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 6:28 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by CallMeSerenity:
I'm right here!

So I have to go to SC? I guess that would explain a few things...

CALLMESERENITY

Wednesday, July 20, 2005 1:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by GreekToomey:
Quote:
Originally posted by CallMeSerenity:
I'm right here!

So I have to go to SC? I guess that would explain a few things...

ha ha! Someone's been reading my profile!
Though I wouldn't say that SC is very serene...

"Somebody has to do something, and it's just incredibly pathetic that it has to be us." ~Jerry Garcia

CALLMESERENITY

Wednesday, July 20, 2005 1:47 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by safeat2nd:
Quote:
Originally posted by CallMeSerenity:
Now, would I have liked the music outside of the context of the movie? Not so much. But it was so perfect in the movie. And plus, I've read the Odyssey, so it was a hoot for me, comparing the two.

Hit the nail on the head! I felt I recognized the storyline but couldn't place it until I bought the CD and read the booklet. And like Firefly, when the music is in context to the movie....perfection!

I really wish they'd come out with a Firefly CD because the music really is superb.

Quote:
I too would be upset if the Ballad of Serenity is not in the movie.

Oh, and I don't have an avatar yet 'cause I can't find one that fits....please don't hate me for being unadorned. Or worst yet, clump me in with this KD person....

Righteously Indignant.

How DARE you be unadorned! The indecency! There could be young children on this website!

"Somebody has to do something, and it's just incredibly pathetic that it has to be us." ~Jerry Garcia

REDREAVER

Saturday, November 5, 2005 4:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by KD:
I mean, I think Joss Whedon may have a good sense of dialogue but that song is awful.
Can anyone tell me where in the show the movie takes place? Is it just a remake of the episode Serenity or does it start after Rivers and the Doctor have joined the crew?

personally, i don't like the theme, but i can appreciate the sentiment of they lyrics. i just have a profound dislike for anything resembling country-western.

and since i don't believe anyone's actually answered this question yet[feel free to mercilessly rag on me if i happened to miss it].... the meat of the film takes place 8 months after Simon and River join the crew of Serenity.

now all i need is a big gun and a "very fine hat"...

Reavers ate my homework

JOSSISAGOD

Saturday, November 5, 2005 5:14 PM

I respectfully disagree with you about the theme song being "terrible". as for when Serenity takes place, it's about eight months after "The Message" which was the final episode of the series, it remained unaired until Sci-Fi re-aired the episodes before the movie. River and Simon have been with the crew since the begining of the series!

Gorramit! REDREAVER already answered both questioons!

TOMTBA2004

Saturday, November 5, 2005 5:43 PM

They are coming out with a CD. comes out NOV.8
You can look it up..The firefly soundtrack.
anyway to answer the first post..That theme song is awsome. Joss actually wrote it before he wrote the first episode.. and yes the movie does take place during the series, right in the middle of it..you can tell because wash and sheperd book are there the whole time. (sarcasm) :)

"lets go to work"

RIVER6213

Monday, November 7, 2005 12:56 AM

I love the Firefly theme song, or Mals' song. There is another version of that song floating around the internet. This girl with a beautiful scottish or irish sounding voice sings it, and it is the most beautiful song you ever heard

TRAKEN

Monday, November 7, 2005 1:39 AM

I loved the twangy songs in Firefly, really reminds me of old westerns.

TALLAUSSIEBROWNCOAT

Monday, November 7, 2005 2:00 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Daikath:
It still aint as bad as..

'It's been a long road, getting from there to here, i't's been along time but my time is finally here. I can feel the change in the wind right now, nothing is in my way and they are not gonna me hold no more, no they are not gonna hold me down. Cuz I got faith the heart.'

Etc

Oh hell yes.

If they didn't (barely) balance out the dodgy with the hearttuggingly historical "spirit of human exploration" video (both real and CGI), it would just be crap-on-a-stick.

It was the ONE Trek series theme that FAILED to move me as much as the orchestral tones of TNG/DS9/VOYAGER. Now THOSE are sci-fi themes to remember. Hell, even Trek TOS had a better theme, and IT sounded like a yodelling "happy"! XD

Joss' "Ballad of Serenity" theme was the FIRST sung sci-fi theme I haven't WINCED at!

And these days, the audiences are more fickle, maybe spoiled by themes of old?

Hell, Jerry Goldsmith made most of the Trek ones! The man (WAS, sadly) a genius!
He came up with the rare musical genius that inspires entirely ORIGINAL themes that are finally emerging again today, like the new Battlestar Galactica and Farscape themes - odd to the ear to begin with, but still amazing and stirringly original, and MEMORABLE!
(Who doesn't get shivers as the choir dies down slightly and the drums kick in in Battlestar? ANY originality is remembered in ANY good project. Even spreading to non-TV/Movie media such as PC games - Deus Ex anyone?)

Noone hears one of those themes and goes "was that show A? Or show B?", unlike, say, Superman and Star Wars for example. I go to hum Superman, and I switch half way to Star Wars by accident!

Anyway, to conclude, themes are good backups to reinforce the show's memorability, but in the end, it's the SHOW that defines itself, not two minutes of credits' music.

--------------------------------------------------

"Hey, support it best you can! I believe supporting this as far as we can will get Serenity restarted. Right now seems VERY "Out Of Gas", and the Fans are Mal. We need to get her running to get the Big Damn Button pushed."

"I don't care what you believe in! Just BELIEVE!"

- Self Quote from a reply to a post about Serenity

REDREAVER

Monday, November 7, 2005 10:52 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by jossisagod:
I respectfully disagree with you about the theme song being "terrible". as for when Serenity takes place, it's about eight months after "The Message" which was the final episode of the series, it remained unaired until Sci-Fi re-aired the episodes before the movie. River and Simon have been with the crew since the begining of the series!

Gorramit! REDREAVER already answered both questioons!

just wanna double check... in the film Mal makes a comment to Simon; "eight months you've had her on my ship, knowing full well she could go monkey-shit..."

so i'm assuming 8 months from day 1, pilot episode when Simon waltzes onto Serenity with River in a box....

__________________________
now all i need is a big gun and a "very fine hat"...

Reavers ate my homework

JOSSISAGOD

Tuesday, November 8, 2005 12:24 AM

You could be correct, I'm not sure anymore, I would like to think this was done for the new converts. But I've been wrong before, and will probably be wrong again.

REDREAVER

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 2:38 AM

does it make much difference, if it was done for the newbies or not?

now all i need is a big gun and a "very fine hat"...

Reavers ate my homework

JOSSISAGOD

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 2:51 AM

Not a gorram bit!

REDREAVER

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 3:09 AM

that's what i thought.

now all i need is a big gun and a "very fine hat"...

Reavers ate my homework

MISSKITTEN

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 2:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fray101:
What's more pertinent perhaps, as raised in one of the essays in "Finding Serenity" is that Joss was taking a risk creating a western when there's little interest in those anymore.

Joss is a guy who loves risks, I mean, back when he was making Buffy, people kept telling him, they loved the dialogue and *that* was what made it a great show, so not long after he made "Hush" an episode with most of the portion not having any dialogue at all.

I love that about him, he doesn't safe out on anything, he goes the full length to do what he wants to do and not been afraid to challenge himself.

And I too love the theme song, have from the start, and I'm a girl that usually *hates* country music. And I mean hate with passion. But I *love* that song... lol

*~*~*

"Joss, if you kill him now I'll stuff a compression coil up your ass sideways!"
~ Kaylee, "Serenity in 2000 words or less"

Kaylee's the perfect woman!

LUCKYSPENCER7

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 3:34 PM

granted, I didn't like the theme song the first few times I heard it, but there are worse themes and their shows go on to be terribly successful. 'course I don't watch these shows, so I don't have a lot of examples, but Dawson's Creek comes to mind...

REDREAVER

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 7:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by misskitten:

Joss is a guy who loves risks, I mean, back when he was making Buffy, people kept telling him, they loved the dialogue and *that* was what made it a great show, so not long after he made "Hush" an episode with most of the portion not having any dialogue at all.

now see, that just makes me want to watch Buffy....

now all i need is a big gun and a "very fine hat"...

Reavers ate my homework

CBY

Saturday, December 3, 2005 10:20 PM

On the theme question: I don't think it had a bad effect as the "Enterprise" theme had on that show for instance. The latter was just misplaced - the Firefly-Song was not.

VIOLETRIX

Saturday, December 3, 2005 10:26 PM

i didn't like the song at first, but it really grew on me. i love it now.

now it could be argued that enterprise got cancelled because of a bad theme song. that was messing with tradition.

http://violetrix.blogspot.com

TRAINEEALTERNATE

Saturday, December 10, 2005 3:35 PM

First time I heard it, I couldn't figure out what was going on; a folk-sy, almost romantic song stuck in what was advertised as an action-comedy...it just didn't make sense.

When they started discussing survival philosophy and seriously creating individual characters, it started to make more sense. The song's itself is a little out of place, but it fits with rest of the musical interludes and the mood of the show.

---------------------------------------------
"Pretty lights...angels.... [thud.]"
"That's why I never kiss them on the mouth."
"When do I get to get sexed up?!"
"This is my most favorite-est gun..."
"Y'mean she's a witch?!" ...." She's in Congress?!?!"

HAZE

Saturday, December 10, 2005 3:55 PM

I tried doing an Irish Ballad version of the Ballad of Serenity once. It was interesting. It ended up being quite long with all the “TaaaAAaaaAAaake myyy Looooove, TaaAAAaaAAake myyyyyy Laaaand” stuff but the lyrics fit nicely.

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Who do you suppose is in there?

XEROGRAVITY

Saturday, December 10, 2005 4:12 PM

I hated the FF theme song first time I heard it. No big fan of twangy cowboy blues. But, I came to love the show, then I actually absorbed the lyrics in the song, and voila. I'm loving it. It fits with the theme of the show. Imagine if it had been placed to 70's disco music or rapped to a 90's hiphop beat. Or whatever is new and modern. Would it have had that retro-ific feel to it?

I loved the FF theme. When I didn't find it present at the beginning of Serenity, the movie didn't feel like the show. Frankly, Whedon sold out where I'm concerned (and no, that little acoustical ditty at the end of the credits doesn't make up for it). The song should have been the first thing we heard.

Tip of the hat to you Zoic. I am a Trek lovver, and I hate, loathe, and detest the Enterprise theme music. I endured 4 years of that misery hoping the show wouldn't suck as bad as the opening song. It's the dumbest and most suicidal marketing disaster in the history of a 40 year scifi franchise. It felt like Yanni meets Michael Bolton. Only cheesier.

Brought to you by Berman-Braga. The duo who publicly hated their fanbase.

XG

No such thing as gravity. The "Earth-that-was" just sucks.

HAZE

Saturday, December 10, 2005 4:24 PM

They couldn’t use it. Fox owns the theme song. Apparently all they could swing was that little arrangement at the end of the movie. Better than noting.

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Who do you suppose is in there?

THATWEIRDGIRL

Saturday, December 10, 2005 5:14 PM

I haven't really read this thread...most of it. It seems to me we're talking about to different things here: 1) The quality of The Ballad of Serenity, 2) The use of that song as the theme song.

1) Love the song. Everything you all have said about its goodness is true. Great song. Great meaning. Great music.

2) Poor choice of theme song. In the context of Scifi, heck, in the context of westerns, shows should not have a sitcom theme. Words and stuff. That’s Different Strokes and Family Ties and Friends. Traditionally, a successful sci-fi show (and often western) has an instrumental theme. Those that fail tend to deviate from this path. Now, if the ballad had been spoken word, it may have worked.

You may think it’s a silly observation, but watchers have their little idiosyncrasies. We watch for formulas we like. When I hear an instrumental or a spoken intro, I know I’m more likely to watch the show. That’s just the way it is.

I love singing my Serenity Ballad.

www.thatweirdgirl.com
---
"...turn right at the corner then skip two blocks...no, SKIP, the hopping-like thing kids do...Why? Why not?"

XEROGRAVITY

Sunday, December 11, 2005 9:27 AM

Where are you getting this from TWG?

There is no traditional scifi theme music. The Original Star Trek was a weird dip into synth with a chorus of screeching weirdness. The music made the show. You think Shatner getting his shirt torn in battle (show a little flesh) and romancing alien chicks every episode was the beating heart of the show? (ok, well it was a big part of it, but without the weird-ass music it would have never got past the pilot episode).

All the other trek shows were Star Wars-ian takeoffs... great orchestral piece of music with an amazing CGI graphics piece of film art attached. I can't hum the ST Next Gen theme, or the DS9 or Voyager theme, but I can hum TOS. And I've seen every ep of each. Just not very memorable. Enterprise's theme song was torture, a thing you desperately want to forget (like the whole first 3 of the 4 seasons).

I love the whole Trek cannon and the music (minus Enterprise). And strangely enough, I hate the first 3 seasons of Enterprise 10X more than I love the whole Trek cannon. Even stranger, the 4th and final season of Enterprise (God bless Manny Coto and crew), was the best season in all of Trek history. Minus the final episode which was stolen away from them and written by Berman-Braga. They called it a "valentine" to the fans. It gets no odder than that, but then I've been a fan since the beginning.

As an "odd" aside... the absolute coolest music in scifi ever was the background music from the original "...In Search Of". Even blew away the Star Wars music. Just my personal opinion.

XG

No such thing as gravity. The "Earth-that-was" just sucks.

J6NGO1977

Saturday, December 24, 2005 9:20 AM

I wasn't too sure about the theme song myself but after watching the show and a few listens I now love it. It's a song of hope and freedom and pretty damn cathchy as well. When my tedious, corporate, depressing job gets me down I can sing in my head 'I don't care I'm still free, you cannot take the sky from me' and this brings a smile to my face. Like bloody today Christmas Eve and I'm at work :(

Was not the song that created the demise of the show It was the corporate idiots that the theme song is rebelling against.

DAISYCUTTER

Wednesday, January 4, 2006 12:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by KD:
I mean, I think Joss Whedon may have a good sense of dialogue but that song is awful.
Can anyone tell me where in the show the movie takes place? Is it just a remake of the episode Serenity or does it start after Rivers and the Doctor have joined the crew?

I'm pretty sure Mal said it has been 8 months since they took River and Simon onboard (somewhere in the movie)

________________________________________________
"When you can't run, you shoot. When you can't shoot, you run a bit more. When, you get shot in the leg, you crawl. When you crawl, you try to bite the shooters kneecaps off. When you are knocked unconcious, well you know the rest."

DAX82

Wednesday, January 4, 2006 12:52 PM

I think the theme song was great. It set the tone for what you were about to see perfectly. I cant imagine how many times ive watched Firefly on dvd, but I know its alot. Since I first saw the show to the present Ive never skipped the theme song.

CHELBY

Friday, January 6, 2006 11:43 PM

Hi there,
I woudl like to know where u got the ringtone for your cell phone, I want it badly. i ove the song o much i have it on my computer. thanks chelby

CHELBY

Friday, January 6, 2006 11:44 PM

Hi there,
I woudl like to know where u got the ringtone for your cell phone, I want it badly. i ove the song o much i have it on my computer. thanks chelby

KERRETOM

Wednesday, January 11, 2006 1:53 AM

First of all I hate country music!

That said, The Ballad of Serenity is stuck in my head! I haven't watched an episode in a week, and I'm still obsessing over the song!

Serenity takes part a year after the first episode. Simon says this when he says, "Kaylee, in almost the year that I've been here, the only thing I regret is not being with you." Or something to that effect. Anyways, he says it's almost a year. (Sorry, seen Serenity once, everyfirefly about a million times!"

"This woman's a witch!"
"Yeah, but she's our witch, so cut her the hell down!"

JERASTREN

Wednesday, January 11, 2006 8:29 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by KD:
I mean, I think Joss Whedon may have a good sense of dialogue but that song is awful.
Can anyone tell me where in the show the movie takes place? Is it just a remake of the episode Serenity or does it start after Rivers and the Doctor have joined the crew?

I must say that I really enjoyed the 'Ballad of Serenity', it's one of the best tracks on the soundtrack CD (Along with the music played at Tracey's funeral...so sad)

SHINEY777

Monday, January 23, 2006 10:55 PM

I love the theme music. Can't get the gorram thing out of my head. It soothes me.

QUEENOFTHENORTH

Monday, January 23, 2006 11:07 PM

I am a self-proclaimed country music hater. That being said, I adore the Firefly theme and sing along with it all the time. So does my cousin. But anyway, I don't think theme music affects a show's viewers. There is such a thing as a mute button for the credits.

"I'm having one of those things - a headache with pictures."

"Of course I'm right. And if I'm not, may we all be horribly crushed from above somehow."

Like books? Go to this thread: http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=14862
to find out how to buy mine!

LOOTZEE

Monday, January 23, 2006 11:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Daikath:
It still aint as bad as..

'It's been a long road, getting from there to here, i't's been along time but my time is finally here. I can feel the change in the wind right now, nothing is in my way and they are not gonna me hold no more, no they are not gonna hold me down. Cuz I got faith the heart.'

Etc

Yes that is bad but I am old enough to remember the theme to the movie BUCK ROGERS IN THE 25th century

it started with "far beyond this world we known far beyond the star......"

thank god the drugs block out the rest

RIVER6213

Thursday, January 26, 2006 5:15 AM

I loved the Firefly theme song from the moment I heard it to now.