Universal Music Group U.K.’s Globe, known for its expertise in integrating music into various media, is significantly expanding its focus on original film production through its newly established division, Globe Originals. This initiative aims to create music-driven films that provide fresh opportunities for artists to explore their creativity beyond traditional music platforms.
Globe Originals has already made its mark by collaborating on several noteworthy projects, including the acclaimed *Nostalgie* and the Oscar-nominated *Hamnet*. The unit has worked with prominent figures in the film industry such as director Quentin Tarantino and producer Richard Curtis, showcasing its commitment to high-quality storytelling. Under the leadership of president Marc Robinson, Globe is now actively pursuing partnerships in the U.S. and exploring avenues for multi-talented creatives to expand their artistic horizons.
One of the exciting developments is a new partnership with Hollywood producer Shannon McIntosh, known for her work on *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood*. This collaboration will focus on a slate of music-driven feature films, including the modern love story *Falling*, directed by Dominic Savage, and a biopic titled *Dusty vs Dusty*, centered on the life of Dusty Springfield. Additionally, the original soundtrack for the upcoming project *Annie Oakley Hanging* will be crafted by Dan Smith, the lead vocalist of the band Bastille.
As demand for music-infused narratives grows, Robinson highlights the importance of integrating music into the storytelling process. “Music is increasingly becoming a key element in audiovisual storytelling,” he states. The partnership with McIntosh exemplifies this trend, with *Annie Oakley Hanging* described as a “fully music-driven feature” set in the American frontier, showcasing a rebellious love story intertwined with an evocative soundtrack.
The production of four documentaries about U.K. artists is also in progress, with more details expected later this year. Robinson emphasizes that the aim is to accommodate the evolving needs of artists, allowing them to engage in storytelling that resonates with audiences. He notes, “We wanted to have a setup where we could really accommodate artist storytelling and work with filmmakers who understand and appreciate music.”
Robinson and Smith elaborate on how collaborations have transformed over the years. In the past, Globe primarily received completed products from the film industry. Now, they are actively involved from the inception of projects, fostering a dialogue that enhances the integration of music in film and television.
Smith, who has contributed significantly to Globe’s projects, such as writing songs for the BAFTA-nominated *Nostalgie*, expresses gratitude for the opportunity to explore narratives beyond traditional music roles. “I feel incredibly fortunate for the chance to expand beyond a traditional artist career,” he shares. His work on *Nostalgie* illustrates the potential of music to evoke powerful emotions, as the film explores themes relevant to the 1980s music scene.
The short film *Nostalgie*, which features actor Aidan Gillen, follows a 1980s pop star confronted with a moral dilemma after receiving an unexpected invitation to perform. Smith’s ability to craft songs that resonate with the film’s themes underscores the synergy between music and storytelling in this project. “Writing for film or TV is very different from writing a song or a whole music album,” he explains, highlighting the collaborative nature of the process.
Looking ahead, Globe Originals is committed to nurturing new talent and storytelling methods that blend music and film. Robinson views this as essential for keeping pace with the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. “The evolution of Dan Smith is happening in real time right now,” he adds, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in developing innovative content.
As Globe Originals continues to pave the way for music-driven storytelling, the potential for future projects is vast. Smith remains optimistic about the possibilities that lie ahead. “I really enjoyed directing music videos in the past,” he mentions, indicating his openness to exploring new creative roles. With the fusion of music and film at the forefront, UMG U.K.’s Globe is poised to make a significant impact in the entertainment industry.
