Este Haim and Amanda Yamate have co-scored the Netflix romantic comedy Voicemails for Isabelle, which emphasizes sisterly bonds over romantic themes, premiering June 19.
Focus on Sisterhood
Este Haim, known for performing alongside her sisters, felt a personal connection to the film's theme of sisterhood. "The thing that really caught my attention was the fact that it was about sisters," she stated. Haim and Yamate emphasized the importance of the sisterly relationship in the film, with Haim explaining that Jill's relationship with her late sister Isabelle is the film's true centerpiece.
Musical Composition
The composers developed the main theme based on the film's logline, focusing on the bond between the sisters rather than the romantic plot. Amanda Yamate noted, "The main theme is a love theme for Jill and Izzy, the sisters. Wes and Jill don’t even really have a love theme." The track "This Party Sucks Without You" is a recurring piece, appearing five or six times throughout the film.
Yamate and Haim joined the project early in the production process, allowing them to experiment creatively. "We like jumping in early because you just get to know each other as creatives for a little bit longer," Yamate said. They experimented with live winds and strings, which resonated with the film's director Leah McKendrick.
Personal Connections
For Haim, the film's focus on sisterly love resonated personally, given her own relationship with her sisters and her experience with chronic illness. "I’m a type one diabetic and have Hashimoto’s and neuropathy," she explained, adding that her sisters have always supported her unconditionally. This personal connection influenced her decision to work on the film.
Emotional Journey
Haim and Yamate's scoring process was emotionally intense. "The process was actually that we just cried," Yamate joked. The opportunity to sing on the score was particularly special for them, as it was their first time singing together. "It just made so much sense," Yamate added.
For Haim, the film was more than just a professional project; it was a reflection of her life. "It was a rom-com, but it was really about family and loving having such a deep connection to your sister," she said, noting the significance of sisterhood in her own life.
Voicemails For Isabelle premieres June 19 on Netflix.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/music/music-features/este-haim-amanda-yamate-voicemails-for-isabelle-interview-1236625456/
