In 2026, the “Auteur” era of independent film has redefined how we discover cinema, with audiences increasingly finding their next favorite movie through its sonic identity.
Romancing Sydney, the latest feature from director Anmol Mishra, is a prime example of this trend. By blending a traditional narrative with six intricate dance routines, Mishra has created a “visual love letter” to the city that relies on a genre-bending soundtrack to tell its most intimate stories.
For the readers of IndiePulse Music, this film represents a masterclass in how independent directors can use curated tracks to bridge the gap between high-brow “culture vulture” art and accessible, emotional storytelling.
A Sonic Tapestry of Modern Love
The film’s soundtrack acts as its emotional spine, featuring a diverse array of artists that mirror the film’s exploration of complex, interconnected lives.
- “Your Love Is Too Good” by Bridget Barkan: This standout track anchors the film’s more passionate moments. Performed by the versatile New York musician and Scissor Sisters collaborator Bridget Barkan, the song is a slick, soul-infused R&B piece. Its seductive female vocals, grooving saxophone, and Rhodes keyboard create a “steamy” and “cool” atmosphere that perfectly complements the film’s R&B-soul aesthetic.
- “Con Mi Guaganco” by Ray Armando: To power the film’s high-energy salsa and ballroom sequences, Mishra turned to this instrumental Latin gem. Ray Armando’s percussive-heavy track provides a vibrant, rhythmic intensity that drives the “universal rhythm” of the film’s dance routines.
- “Fairytale Waltz” by Kevin MacLeod: Used in the film’s trailer and during its most whimsical “flights of fancy,” this ethereal piece sets a mysterious, calming tone. Its delicate arrangement guides the audience through the characters’ inner worlds, where movement replaces dialogue.
The Choreographer-Composer Synergy
What makes Romancing Sydney unique for 2026 is the collaboration between director Anmol Mishra and choreographer Connor Dowling (a former professional with the Sydney Dance Company). Rather than fitting dance to a pre-existing score, the contemporary sequences were filmed first, with the soundtrack meticulously selected or composed to match the specific “flights of fancy” captured on screen.
This “auteur” approach ensures that whether it’s a contemporary piece or a classic waltz, the music and motion are inseparable. The film’s transition from exclusive festival screenings—including its well-received run at the Jagran Film Festival—to major platforms means this sophisticated auditory journey is finally accessible to everyone.
Stream the Experience
Romancing Sydney is now available for global streaming on all major VOD platforms: Amazon, Apple TV, and Google Play.
