Taylor Swift’s “Out of the Woods” was the perfect choice for the finale of “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” according to the show’s creator Jenny Han. As reported exclusively by PEOPLE, Han selected two Taylor Swift songs, “Dress” and “Out of the Woods,” to accompany the pivotal moments of Belly and Conrad finally coming together in the series finale.
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The finale of season 3 saw the characters Belly and Conrad’s long-awaited union set against the backdrop of Taylor Swift’s music. Han revealed that she had always envisioned using “Out of the Woods” for a crucial moment in the show, wanting the audience to experience the same emotional journey as the characters.
Jenny Han expressed her admiration for Taylor Swift’s music, particularly highlighting “Dress” as one of her favorite songs. The selection of each Swift song was carefully curated to enhance the on-screen chemistry between Belly and Conrad, creating a passionate and unforgettable moment for viewers.
The usage of Taylor Swift’s music in “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has been a consistent theme since the show’s inception in 2022. Han shared that she was determined to include Swift’s music in the series, going as far as writing a heartfelt note to the singer to seek permission for its use, as it held significance for both herself and the fans.
The intimate scenes featuring Belly and Conrad set to Swift’s music required meticulous planning and choreography, as actors Lola Tung and Christopher Briney aimed to capture the essence of their characters’ emotions. Despite the pressure to deliver a satisfying conclusion for fans rooting for different outcomes, the actors approached the scenes with professionalism and dedication.
Swift’s tracks such as “The Way I Loved You” and “False God” have previously underscored significant moments in the series, further highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the show’s narrative and Taylor Swift’s evocative lyrics. Fans have been consistently captivated by the emotional depth that Swift’s music lends to the unfolding storylines.
The decision to incorporate Taylor Swift’s music into the series was a deliberate choice by Jenny Han to elevate the show’s emotional resonance and provide fans with a unique viewing experience. By seamlessly integrating Swift’s songs into pivotal moments, Han successfully created a distinct atmosphere that resonated with audiences.
As preparations for the upcoming feature film adaptation of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” continue, fans can anticipate more captivating storytelling infused with the enchanting melodies of Taylor Swift’s musical catalogue. The enduring legacy of Swift’s music within the series serves as a testament to the power of artistry in enhancing storytelling on screen.