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Over the Hedge is a 2006 animated film from DreamWorks Animation, known for its humorous take on suburban life through the perspective of woodland creatures. The story revolves around RJ, a crafty raccoon who must replace food he accidentally destroyed or face the wrath of a bear named Vincent.
RJ teams with a group of recently awakened animals from hibernation — including the wary turtle Verne — to reach his aim. Together, they set out to pick food from surrounding suburban homes, which results in funny meetings and touching family lessons.
The soundtrack of Over the Hedge plays a significant role in setting the film's tone. Rupert Gregson-Williams wrote the soundtrack, which combines modern songs with orchestral pieces and have original Ben Folds tunes.
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Although Folds's songs reflect RJ's inner journey and provide some humor, Gregson-Williams's compositions support the film's emotional and adventurous moments. The diversity of the music — lighthearted, energetic and reflective tones that accentuate the narrative — has drawn compliments.
From original songs by Ben Folds to instrumental pieces by Gregson-Williams, each track from Over the Hedge has its purpose in the story. Below, explore the songs in detail, including the mood they set and their placement in Over the Hedge.
All the soundtracks from Over the Hedge
Family of Me - Ben Folds
“Family of Me,” written and performed by Ben Folds, opens the soundtrack with a lighthearted tune that reflects RJ's initial independence.
The song emphasizes the joy of solitude, fitting RJ’s lone-wolf attitude at the beginning of the film. Short but impactful, “Family of Me” sets up RJ’s character arc, capturing his self-centered approach to life.
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RJ Enters the Cave - Rupert Gregson-Williams
Composed by Rupert Gregson-Williams, “RJ Enters the Cave” is an instrumental piece that builds suspense as RJ encounters Vincent.
The orchestration captures the tension and danger RJ feels in Vincent's presence. This track highlights Gregson-Williams’ skill in creating mood with orchestral sounds, immersing the audience in RJ’s anxiety.
The Family Awakes - Rupert Gregson-Williams
“The Family Awakes” introduces the woodland animals as they emerge from hibernation.
Gregson-Williams’ composition is playful and curious, matching the animals’ wonder as they discover their transformed environment. The tune adds a magical feel, enhancing the scene where the animals realize their forest has been replaced by suburbia.
Heist - Ben Folds
Another song by Ben Folds, “Heist” energizes the film’s heist scenes as RJ and the animals plan to gather food. The upbeat rhythm reflects RJ’s crafty nature and his growing influence over the group. “Heist” brings a mischievous feel that suits the animals’ hilarious attempts at stealing human food.
Lost in the Supermarket - Ben Folds (Originally by The Clash)
Ben Folds covers The Clash’s “Lost in the Supermarket” to express the animals' awe and confusion in the human world. The song’s lyrics highlight feelings of being out of place, echoing the animals' shock as they encounter the endless variety of foods in the suburban stores.
Let’s Call It Steve - Rupert Gregson-Williams
“Let’s Call It Steve” is a whimsical instrumental piece that plays as the animals explore the hedge.
Gregson-Williams includes a female vocal line that adds mystery and wonder, embodying the animals' fascination with the strange structure. The song also foreshadows the adventures and challenges they will face.
Read More: Incoming (2024) soundtrack: A definitive guide to every song in the movie
Hammy Time - Michael Whitlock
“Hammy Time” is an energetic track, composed by Michael Whitlock, that captures Hammy the squirrel's hyperactive personality.
The lively tempo mirrors Hammy's speed and unpredictability, making it a memorable addition to the soundtrack. It plays during scenes where Hammy’s boundless energy becomes both a help and a hindrance.
Still - Ben Folds
“Still” is one of the more introspective songs by Ben Folds. It reflects RJ’s feelings of loneliness and his gradual realization of the importance of family. This ballad contrasts with the earlier upbeat tracks, providing an emotional depth to RJ’s character as he starts questioning his motives.
Play? - Rupert Gregson-Williams
“Play?” by Gregson-Williams is a lively orchestral piece that accompanies scenes of the animals having fun or exploring.
The composition is playful and free-spirited, symbolizing the animals' lighthearted moments. This track balances the film’s emotional undertones, adding a joyous element to the story.
Rockin’ the Suburbs (Over the Hedge Version) - Ben Folds feat. William Shatner
In “Rockin' the Suburbs,” Ben Folds teams up with William Shatner to create a humorous track that plays over the film’s end credits. Shatner’s spoken word adds an amusing twist, while the song’s lively beat reflects the film's irreverent tone, celebrating the animals’ victory over suburban life.
The Inside Heist - Rupert Gregson-Williams
This long, suspenseful track accompanies the climax of the heist. Gregson-Williams builds tension through orchestration as the animals infiltrate Gladys' home. The music crescendos as they navigate obstacles, enhancing the scene’s excitement and stakes.
RJ Rescues His Family - Rupert Gregson-Williams
“RJ Rescues His Family” is a triumphant piece that highlights RJ’s transformation as he chooses his new family over personal gain.
The heroic orchestration signals RJ’s bravery and the animals’ unity as they work together to escape danger. This song marks a turning point for RJ and emphasizes the film’s message of friendship and loyalty.
Still (Reprise) - Ben Folds
“Still (Reprise)” revisits Folds’ earlier ballad, emphasizing RJ’s emotional growth. The reprise underscores RJ’s acceptance of his need for family, rounding off the soundtrack with a heartfelt conclusion. The melody brings closure, aligning RJ's journey with the soundtrack’s emotional progression.
Production and direction of Over the Hedge
DreamWorks Animation in association with Paramount Pictures brought Over the Hedge to life under direction by Tim Johnson and Karey Kirkpatrick. Bruce Willis as RJ, Garry Shandling as Verne and Steve Carell as the vivacious squirrel Hammy make up a superb voice cast for the movie.
The direction, paired with engaging animation and humor, captured audiences’ hearts, making it a memorable release of 2006.
The Over the Hedge soundtrack complements the film’s humor and heartfelt moments, from Ben Folds’ lively and introspective songs to Gregson-Williams’ suspenseful score. Every song has a different function, so strengthening the emotional depth and humor of the story.
The soundtrack of Over the Hedge is pleasing on its own or as part of the movie experience because of the harmony between modern and classical works. Attractive to both movie buffs and music lovers, Over the Hedge soundtrack is still exceptional in capturing the essence of the movie.
Over the Hedge is available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.
