Pulp, the legendary Sheffield band, has announced a new film and live album, 'What Do You Do For An Encore?', directed by the renowned Garth Jennings. This ambitious project is a vibrant tribute to the band's journey from obscurity to cultural touchstone, capturing the spirit of classic concert films like Talking Heads' 'Stop Making Sense' and The Band's 'The Last Waltz'.
The 90-minute movie will feature 20 songs, including hits and deep cuts, and is set to be a spectacular answer to the question, 'What do you do for an encore?'. It will showcase the brilliantly choreographed stage spectacle of Pulp's biggest arena show, part of their global tour for 'More', alongside four decades of colourful, never-seen-before archival material.
Jennings, a director, screenwriter, and actor, has previously worked with Pulp, creating music videos for 'Help The Aged' and 'A Little Soul'. He has also directed videos for Blur, Radiohead, Beck, R.E.M., Fatboy Slim, and Vampire Weekend, as well as the sci-fi film 'The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy'.
The film is a MUBI Production, edited by Barney Pilling, and produced by Octavia Peissel, Danny Gabai, Amy Rattray, and Paul Dugdale. Executive producers include Stuart Goldstein, Tom Healy, Rosie Taylor, Harper Simon, Mark Sainsbury, Jarvis Cocker, and Jeanette Lee.
'What Do You Do For An Encore?' is not just a concert film; it's a celebration of Pulp's unique blend of irony, rebellion, and social commentary. It's a chance to witness the band's extraordinary journey and the impact they've had on British culture. The film will be released this autumn via MUBI's streaming platform.
In addition to the film, Pulp has announced the release of the live album 'Live!', capturing their sold-out shows at The O2 in London in June 2025. Jarvis Cocker, the band's frontman, describes the album as a statement of fact and a challenge, inviting fans to come alive with the band's music.
Pulp's recent activities include a surprise set at Glastonbury under the cryptic moniker 'Patchwork', a glowing five-star review, and a four-star review of their album 'More'. Cocker has also been busy curating a new art exhibition at Hepworth Wakefield alongside his wife, Kim Sion.
The band's future plans include a headline concert at London's Royal Festival Hall, celebrating 50 years of Rough Trade, and a major UK headline concert at Manchester's Wythenshawe Park. They will also headline the End Of The Road 2026 festival and Mad Cool Festival in Madrid.
Pulp's recent music releases include the track 'Begging For Change' from the star-studded 'Help(2)' charity album for War Child, and an EP featuring 'Marrying For Love' and 'Cold Call On The Hotline'. Cocker has hinted at the possibility of writing more songs, despite his bandmates' reluctance to make a new album.
'What Do You Do For An Encore?' is a highly anticipated project, offering a unique perspective on Pulp's journey and their impact on British music. It's a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their ability to captivate audiences with their distinctive blend of irony, rebellion, and social commentary.
