Watch Pulp and Garth Jennings discuss ‘Something Changed’
The journey from obscurity to cultural touchstone is rarely a straight line, but when the journey is this magnificent, it becomes a celebration. Director Garth Jennings has captured this celebratory spirit in his new film and live documentary featuring the Sheffield icons, Pulp, exploring the powerful connections that bind the band and the enduring magic of their sound.
The 90-minute cinematic experience captures Pulp’s incredible energy from their two sold-out performances at The O2 in London last summer. Beyond the stage presence, the film is a deep dive into the group’s extraordinary history, weaving together narration, rare behind-the-scenes footage, and archival material to tell a story of resilience and unforgettable chemistry.
A poignant highlight of the film is the moment the band took center stage to perform a stripped-back rendition of ‘Something Changed,’ a tribute to their late, beloved bassist Steve Mackey. This moment perfectly encapsulates the emotional core of the project: the powerful connection between the musicians that transcends time and circumstance.
Jennings reflected on this shared experience, noting that the connection between the members was evident when they found themselves together, even if it took time and reconnection to realize it. He shared that the film, through its use of footage and memories, demonstrates that adversity is not a stumbling block, but often the greatest asset, forging a richer, more complex story.
The dynamic within Pulp is anything but simple. Jennings observed that the band is an eclectic bunch, with wildly different personalities, yet when they come together, a magical synergy is created. It is this mix of diverse characters and shared history that brings their sound and their presence to life, resulting in something truly magnificent.
The production itself mirrored the band’s aesthetic. To achieve the desired feel—one that felt authentically found rather than traditionally documented—Jennings raided the band’s houses and utilized found footage from the BBC, aiming for a raw, basement-like atmosphere that reflected the group’s kitchen-sink melodrama and earthy realism.
The film masterfully contrasts the nitty-gritty reality of the songs with the staggering showmanship of their delivery. It is a brilliant blend of genuine emotion and theatrical flair, demonstrating how real-life experiences, whether joyous or painful, become the fuel for unforgettable art.
Jennings shared his personal joy in witnessing this journey. He felt that the film was geared toward making the experience as accessible and celebratory as possible, preferring that the narrative be a reminder of beauty rather than simply overstaying its welcome. The film suggests that the band’s ongoing spirit, characterized by infectious enthusiasm and curiosity, is anything but finished.
While he admitted no absolute confidence in the future, Jennings remains convinced that the band’s life force and curiosity are powerful enough to continue. The story of Pulp, captured in this film, proves that sometimes, the most beautiful things are the ones we find when we embrace everything that has happened along the way.
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