Universal Music Group U.K. (UMG U.K.) is significantly expanding its reach into the world of scripted content through its newly established unit, Globe Originals. This initiative aims to create original films with music as the central theme, thereby opening fresh opportunities for artists to explore new creative avenues. Led by president Marc Robinson, Globe Originals has already collaborated on notable projects, including Amy, This Town for the BBC, and the Oscar-nominated Hamnet.
The company has a longstanding history of integrating music into various forms of media, including films, television shows, video games, and advertising. With the launch of Globe Originals, UMG U.K. seeks to enhance its role in film production, creating a bridge between the music and film industries. Robinson noted that the initiative is a response to the increasing demand for music-driven storytelling and the evolving interests of artists who wish to transcend traditional music careers.
The partnership with Hollywood producer Shannon McIntosh, known for her work on Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and The Hateful Eight, marks a pivotal step in this direction. Together, they are developing a slate of music-centric feature films, including the modern love story Falling, directed by Dominic Savage, and Annie Oakley Hanging, which features an original soundtrack by Dan Smith, lead singer of the band Bastille, and Ralph Pelleymounter, lead vocalist of To Kill a King.
Innovative Collaborations and New Projects
One of the most exciting projects under this collaboration is Annie Oakley Hanging, described as a “fully music-driven feature” and a “rebellious love story set in the wild American frontier.” The film’s soundtrack will play a crucial role in shaping its narrative, showcasing the talents of contemporary artists. McIntosh expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Reverse engineering the normal process of making a film by starting with the soundtrack is absolutely invigorating.”
Globe Originals is also producing four documentaries focusing on U.K. artists, with more details expected later this year. Robinson highlighted that this focus on original content is not only about keeping up with changing trends in the industry but also about fostering relationships with a new generation of artists who possess diverse skill sets.
Robinson elaborated on the changing dynamics of collaboration in the film industry. “In the past, we were very much the receiver of the product that the film and TV industry made,” he said. “Now, we are trying to get in at the early stage and really bring a music conversation to film and TV in a way that we haven’t done before.”
The evolution of Globe Originals reflects a growing trend where music and narrative storytelling are becoming increasingly intertwined. This shift aligns with the changing landscape of the media industry, particularly with the rise of streaming platforms and their demand for innovative content.
Behind the Scenes of Nostalgie
One of the standout projects that exemplifies this new approach is the BAFTA-nominated short film Nostalgie, directed by Kathryn Ferguson. Dan Smith played a significant role in this project, writing both the songs and the score. The film, set in the 1980s, tells the story of a pop star facing a moral dilemma after receiving an unexpected invitation to perform.
Smith described the experience of working on Nostalgie as a dream opportunity. “As a musician, I have always been much more interested in not just writing an album about myself but diving into stories that fascinate me,” he shared. This film required Smith to write songs that reflected the era while also resonating with the film’s narrative, showcasing the depth of his creative talents.
The collaborative process involved extensive discussions between Smith, Robinson, and Ferguson, ensuring that the music was integral to the storytelling. Smith emphasized the unique challenge of writing for film, stating, “When you’re writing for film, you are in service of the director and their vision. That’s a really different approach.”
The filmmaker’s vision and Smith’s musical expertise came together to create a powerful narrative experience. The film features a 19-minute runtime and includes performances by actors such as Aidan Gillen and Jessica Reynolds. Its synopsis reads: “A 1980s popstar receives a surprising invitation to perform, pulling him out of musical retirement and into a moral dilemma.”
Looking to the future, Robinson believes that Globe Originals is well-positioned to capitalize on the fusion of music and film. The company plans to continue collaborating with multi-hyphenate artists who possess a range of skills, further enriching the creative landscape.
Smith is optimistic about the future of his involvement in film, expressing a desire to explore directing projects as well. “I really enjoyed directing music videos in the past,” he noted, sharing his admiration for filmmaker David Lynch, who has successfully navigated both music and film.
As UMG U.K. pushes deeper into scripted content through Globe Originals, it is clear that the intersection of music and film will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of storytelling. The initiative not only enhances the creative prospects for artists but also offers audiences a fresh perspective on how music can elevate cinematic experiences.
