Lynn Fainchtein, a trailblazing music supervisor whose work graced critically acclaimed films such as “Amores Perros” and “Roma,” has sadly passed away at the age of 61. Fainchtein’s innovative approach to integrating music into cinema left an indelible mark on the industry.
Born in London, England, Fainchtein’s passion for music began at a young age. She moved to Mexico City in her late twenties, where she discovered a thriving film scene that would eventually become her life’s work. Fainchtein’s career took off in the mid-1990s when she was approached by Mexican filmmaker Alejandro González Iñárritu to collaborate on his debut feature, “Amores Perros.”
In an interview with Variety in 2005, Fainchtein spoke about her collaboration with Iñárritu, saying, “We wanted to create a soundtrack that wasn’t just background music but was integral to the story. It had to be part of the narrative.” This groundbreaking approach resulted in a unique synergy between music and film, which would come to define Fainchtein’s work.
For “Amores Perros,” Fainchtein selected a diverse range of songs from various genres, including punk, pop, and traditional Mexican music. The resulting soundtrack became a critical and commercial success, earning a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album.
Fainchtein continued her successful partnership with Iñárritu on his subsequent films, including “21 Grams” and “Babel.” However, it was their collaboration on “Roma” that solidified her reputation as a visionary music supervisor.
In an interview with IndieWire, Iñárritu praised Fainchtein’s work on “Roma,” stating, “Lynn’s gift is to understand the film, the emotions, and the characters. She has an uncanny ability to find music that enhances the story without being intrusive.”
The film’s score featured a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Despertarme,” sung by Spanish singer-songwriter Marisa Monte. The song became an integral part of the film’s narrative, resonating with audiences worldwide and earning Fainchtein another Latin Grammy nomination.
Fainchtein’s contributions to the film industry extended beyond her work as a music supervisor. She also co-produced Netflix’s critically acclaimed series “Narcos: Mexico.”
Friends and colleagues have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Fainchtein’s groundbreaking work. In a statement, Iñárritu said, “Lynn was more than just a music supervisor. She was a partner, a collaborator, and a friend. Her creativity and passion for music will be deeply missed.”
2. IndieWire. (2019, November 14). How Lynn Fainchtein’s Music Supervision Transformed ‘Roma.’
3. The Hollywood Reporter. (2023, February 27). Lynn Fainchtein, Music Supervisor for ‘Amores Perros’ and ‘Roma,’ Dies at 61.
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2005, March 17
2019, November 14
2023, February 27