Netflix to enter Ray Gunn ballad Too Much To Ask for original song Oscar

Netflix will officially submit “Too Much To Ask” from “Ray Gunn” for consideration in the Oscars original song category.

Variety exclusively learned of the submission plan, according to its report published on 22 September Variety. The category honours songs written specially for a film. Netflix has selected this track as its formal entry from the film.

The song is performed in the film by Scarlett Johansson. It was written and produced by Kimbra, Variety reported Variety. Johansson sings it in character as part of the story.

It is one of three original songs Kimbra wrote for “Ray Gunn”. The other two will not go forward as the official submission. That choice gives voters a single, clear focus from the film’s music.

The recording has a large-scale sound. “Too Much To Ask” was cut at Abbey Road Studios in London with the London Symphony Orchestra, according to Variety Variety. A full orchestra backs Johansson’s vocal on the track.

“Ray Gunn” is directed by Brad Bird. Its voice cast is led by Johansson alongside Sam Rockwell and Tom Waits. The three actors voice the central roles.

What makes this stand out is the pairing behind the microphone. Kimbra built the song as writer and producer, then handed the performance to Johansson. For fans, this means the voice heard on the submission is the one heard in the film itself.