Anna Kendrick and James Corden’s Hilarious and Heartfelt Adele Tribute on The Late Late Show
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
On June 23, 2016, The Late Late Show with James Corden delighted audiences with a memorable segment titled “Soundtrack to a Love Story,” featuring Anna Kendrick and James Corden in a mini-movie musical that perfectly blended humor, heartbreak, and catchy tunes. The standout moment? Kendrick’s tearful, ice cream-fueled rendition of Adele’s “Someone Like You.”
A Mini-Movie Musical That Tugs at the Heartstrings
In this cleverly crafted segment, Kendrick and Corden narrate a love story entirely through a medley of popular songs—11 in total—complete with costumes, set changes, and dramatic flair. Kendrick’s character navigates the ups and downs of romance, culminating in a bittersweet scene where she discovers Corden’s character cheating on her.
Seated in a cozy easy chair, clutching a tub of ice cream, Kendrick belts out “Someone Like You” in true Adele fashion—crying, vulnerable, and utterly relatable. Meanwhile, Corden’s character appears through a rainy window, adding a cinematic touch to the emotional moment. This scene became an instant favorite for its raw yet humorous portrayal of heartbreak.
Beyond Adele: A Full Musical Journey
The segment doesn’t stop with Adele. It features classics like “I Say a Little Prayer,” “Lady in Red,” “I’ll Make Love to You,” “Marry You,” “Don’t Go Breakin’ My Heart,” “It Wasn’t Me,” and “I Will Always Love You,” seamlessly woven into the story. The elaborate production involved 14 songs and 10 set changes filmed in one continuous take—showcasing Kendrick’s impressive vocal and acting chops alongside Corden’s charismatic hosting.
Why It Resonated
The performance struck a chord with viewers for its blend of comedy and emotional depth. Kendrick’s comedic timing and heartfelt singing made the heartbreak scene both funny and deeply human—a mix that audiences and critics alike praised. Media outlets including Teen Vogue, Entertainment Tonight, and the Daily Mail highlighted the segment’s cleverness and relatability.
The Bigger Picture: A Signature Late Late Show Format
“Soundtrack to a Love Story” fits within James Corden’s popular recurring format, where he and guests transform life events into musical performances. While other episodes have featured elaborate, music-filled stories, this particular mini-movie stands out for its emotional resonance and Kendrick’s standout performance.
