Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this inoffensive soundtrack from the movie of the same name is the first solo album from Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder. Many young teens won't care about -- or get -- most of the themes (running away to find yourself, having more than you need), but the music is folksy enough to be fine for anyone older than 13.
Families can talk about the inspiration to do soundtracks. How was Vedder moved by the tale and the movie? Do you think it helps to have a famous artist as the voice of a soundtrack? Families can also talk about McCandless' tale. What things in society would you want to leave behind? Is running away really the best way to "find yourself" or to shun capitalism and corporate America?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Conny Coon
It's fitting that Eddie Vedder's first full-length solo album tells the story of another man's solo journey. There's nothing offensive anywhere on INTO THE WILD, just soulful, folky songs that follow the story of Chris McCandless' doomed Alaskan adventure. Vedder's words won't cause parents to pause, but Chris' story might. It's essentially the true story of a runaway. McCandless was a smart 20-something kid when he shunned society and ventured off (with few supplies and even fewer survival skills), but his live-off-the-land dream turned into every parent's nightmare when he was found dead several months later. Vedder's plaintive voice and simple, soulful lyrics gently guide us into the wild world that McCandless saw, perfectly blending a sense of freedom with a strong foreboding. His songs warn of the dangers of nature as well as the danger of wanting more than you have or need, messages that many parents may want to instill in their children. Like his muse, Vedder also respects nature while railing against materialism and greed. Luckily for us, he didn't run off into the wild to prove his point. He chose to make music instead.
Fans may want to check out other Pearl Jam albums or the serene Garden State soundtrack. Also, read our reviews of the Into the Wild book and movie (starring Emile Hirsch).
Rate It!
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Social BehaviorChris McCandless essentially "ran away" by dropping out of civilization and traveling alone into the Alaskan wild to find himself. The songs warn of the dangers of nature as well as the danger of wanting more than you have or need. Lyrics such as "Empty pockets will allow a greater sense of wealth" frequently urge listeners to simplify and steer clear of greed and excess. |
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CommercialismObvious tie-in to the movie and book of the same name. |
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Drug/Alcohol/TobaccoOne reference to being "nature drunk and high." |
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