Pulp Announce New Film What Do You Do For An Encore
Pulp has announced a new 90-minute documentary film titled What Do You Do For An Encore?, directed by Garth Jennings and narrated by frontman Jarvis Cocker. The film, which is scheduled for release this autumn via the streaming platform MUBI, chronicles the band’s history from their early days to their status as a cultural touchstone. It incorporates footage from the band’s recent arena tour alongside four decades of previously unseen archival material.
What to expect from the film
The documentary is designed as a kinetic exploration of the band’s career, featuring 20 songs that span both major hits and deep cuts. According to the production description, the project draws stylistic inspiration from iconic concert films like Stop Making Sense (1984) and The Last Waltz (1978). It serves as a tribute to the band’s legacy of irony and social commentary, framing their recent return to the stage as a direct answer to the question posed in the film’s title.
Did You Know? Director Garth Jennings has a long-standing history with the band, having previously directed the music videos for their 1997 single “Help The Aged” and 1988’s “A Little Soul” through his production company, Hammer & Tongs.
Production and creative team
What Do You Do For An Encore? is a MUBI production edited by Barney Pilling, known for his work on The Grand Budapest Hotel. The film’s production team includes Octavia Peissel for Opal Films, as well as Danny Gabai, Amy Rattray, and Paul Dugdale. Jarvis Cocker and Jeanette Lee serve as executive producers alongside Stuart Goldstein, Tom Healy, Rosie Taylor, Harper Simon, and Mark Sainsbury.
Expert Insight: By aligning the film with the lineage of The Last Waltz and Stop Making Sense, the production team is signaling an intent to elevate the concert film beyond a mere recording. This move suggests an effort to cement the band’s place in British musical history, bridging the gap between their 1990s peak and their current status as a touring force.
Future prospects for the band
While the film release is set for autumn, the band remains active on the live circuit. They are scheduled to headline the Royal Festival Hall in London next month to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rough Trade, where they will perform their album More in its entirety. Additional performances include a headline show at Manchester’s Wythenshawe Park on August 28 and a slot at the End Of The Road 2026 festival.
Regarding future recordings, band members Nick Banks and Candida Doyle have previously indicated they are not actively working on a full-length album, though they have expressed openness to smaller projects like EPs or singles. Jarvis Cocker has noted that while he previously felt a sense of finality after finishing albums, he did not experience that feeling following the completion of More, leaving the possibility of future music open.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the new Pulp film?
The film is directed by Garth Jennings, who has previously collaborated with the band on their music videos.
When will the film be released?
An exact release date has not yet been confirmed, though it is scheduled for release this autumn on MUBI.
Does the film feature new music?
The film contains 20 songs, including hits and deep cuts, primarily captured during the band’s recent arena tour for their album More.
How do you think the band’s legacy will be reshaped by this retrospective look at their career?