Film/music review: The music of 'Howard the Duck' is as endearing as its cult status

Before getting to the soundtrack and score, let's address the basics: Howard the Duck is a 1986 cult-classic sci-fi comedy film based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. Directed by Willard Huyck and produced by George Lucas, the movie follows Howard, an anthropomorphic duck from a parallel universe, who is mysteriously transported to Earth and becomes embroiled in an adventure involving an alien invasion (which, on the bright side, gives Howard the ability to demonstrate his "Quack Fu" abiities).

The story begins on Howard's home planet, Duckworld, which closely resembles Earth but is inhabited by intelligent ducks. A scientific experiment gone awry pulls Howard to Cleveland, Ohio, where he meets Beverly Switzler (played by Lea Thompson), the lead singer of a struggling rock band. Together, they team up with quirky scientist Phil Blumburtt (Tim Robbins) to figure out how to send Howard home. Complications arise when Dr. Walter Jenning (Jeffrey Jones) becomes possessed by a "Dark Overlord," an alien entity intent on conquering Earth.

Despite its intriguing concept and comic book origins, the film was a commercial and critical failure upon release but has since gained a cult following for its bizarre humor, special effects, and campy charm (sort of like Heavy Metal). However, the music for Howard the Duck was a significant aspect of the film, contributing to its quirky, 1980s atmosphere, and being one part of its lasting charm. So here's a somewhat detailed look at the soundtrack and score

The original score was composed by John Barry, a renowned composer famous for his work on 11 James Bond films, as well as doing arrangements for the original "James Bond Theme" (composed by Monty Norman). Barry’s orchestral score for Howard the Duck blends adventurous, whimsical, and suspenseful themes, attempting to match the film’s odd mix of comedy and action. Despite Barry's pedigree, the score was not universally praised, as some critics felt it was at odds with the film’s tone.

Soundtrack of Howard the Duck

The soundtrack of Howard the Duck, however, is notable for its 1980s rock and pop influences. Key features include songs by Thomas Dolby. Yes, the soundtrack prominently features tracks co-written and produced by Thomas Dolby, the British musician best known for his hit "She Blinded Me with Science." Now, if you have never heard that song, you pretty much have not heard the 1980s.

Dolby worked closely with Lea Thompson, who performed vocals for Beverly’s fictional band, Cherry Bomb. Here is part of what happened:

Dolby’s contribution helped give the film its distinct 80s vibe, which is a big part of what long-term fans are quacking about. The Cherry Bomb songs are a highlight, and it seems plausible thatthe name and image were influenced by this band and song.

"Howard the Duck," the film’s theme song, is a funky and playful ode to the titular character. It's a song tailor-made to give "Dark Overlord of the Universe" a 1980s overdose. But you have other tracks like "Don't Turn Away" and "It Don’t Come Cheap," which also add to the film’s rock-centric flavor (even if they are not the greatest songs of all time).

Reception of the music, and legacy of the film

While the film was widely panned, its music genuinely has a small but dedicated fan base, particularly for its nostalgic charm and Dolby’s involvement. Is it large enough to call it a "cult following" and have it mean something? That's hard to say. Still, there are some people who would probably listen to its soundtrack with a smile, and that means something.

It's also generally accepted that, yes, Lea Thompson did perform the vocals in the songs, and she seems to have a positive view of the movie. She admits she "got whiplash from being in the most beloved movie of the year and then the most hated movie of the year." However, she also said it gave her "a unique perspective on Hollyweird" and "It was so easy to make fun of it. And that is why I often say my Howard the Duck fans are my favorite fans because they had to earn it! It was not jumping on the bandwagon [because it was more popular to dogpile onto it with criticism]."

It does seem a tad dramatic to say the movie "Destroyed Marvel And Ruined A Back To the Future Icon," as one site claimed.

Obviously, not everyone sees it as so disastrous. Plus, to pin all the blame for Marvel's lack of success on Howard is a bit ducked up. There are some out there who actually find it quacktastic, and that matters, too.

Again, part of whatever success the movie had is the music. The combination of Barry’s orchestral pieces with the rock-infused soundtrack created an unusual juxtaposition that, like the film itself, has its detractors and admirers (just like even the big franchises, like Ghostbusters, Star Wars or the LOTR's hobbit-forming fanbase). Its soundtrack, with a mix of orchestral and rock influences, reflects the film’s unique, if uneven, attempt to blend genres and styles.

Despite its initial reception, Howard the Duck remains a fascinating piece of 80s pop culture. There are other , very simple dynamics that one might like, too. And yes, that might include how Lea Thompson has that "hot chick next door" look. While the movie is far from universally loved, it holds a special place in the hearts of fans who appreciate its offbeat humor, campy appeal, and lack of burdensome drama.