A vital hybrid performance film about Blur
Directed by Sam Wrench
Produced by Tom Colbourne
Production Company: BlinkTV
Relaying a rousing story of unfinished business, creative spontaneity and enduring friendship and set against the backdrop of two brilliant live performances, New World Towers, a new documentary film onBlur, will be released December 2nd at selected Picturehouse, Odeon, Cineworld and Vue cinemas at cities around the UK including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool and Edinburgh. An international release is also planned, with more dates to follow shortly.
The film charts the iconic British band’s sprawling journey over the last few years – from an unexpected break in Hong Kong which sowed the seeds for their first album as a four piece in 16 years, to a glorious home coming show in London and, finally, an emotional reunion with their Hong Kong audience.
New World Towers cuts between scenes from the band’s impassioned performance at this summer’s Hyde Park show in front of 60,000 fans and the stirring concert in Hong Kong, but also offers a raw, candid glimpse into the interior life of the band as well, with personal documentary footage and band interviews showing just how an opportune recording session unexpectedly gave birth to a new album, while also raising questions about the future of Blur. New World Towers reveals fascinating insights into the group dynamic and especially the relationship between singer Damon Albarn and guitarist Graham Coxon. Ultimately, their enduring friendship prevailed – allowing Coxon to bring the album to completion nearly 18 months later.
Featuring stunning live material with previously uncaptured songs alongside intimate moments following the band in the studio, New World Towers isn’t just a chance to witness a band at the very height of their powers, but also a rare opportunity to see the members at their most candid, as they reflect on their success and speculate about their future.
Blur also wrap up a triumphant 2015 with a pair of massive North American shows this month, playing the legendary Hollywood Bowl on October 20th and Madison Square Garden on October 23rd.
Watch the trailer here.
For more information go to: www.blur.co.uk
About Blur
Blur were formed in 1989 by Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James and Dave Rowntree and signed with Food/EMI the same year. Announcing their arrival with debut album Leisure in 1991, Blur continued to revolutionise the sound of English popular music with second release Modern Life Is Rubbish (1993). Five successive UK #1 albums followed – with Parklife (1994) and The Great Escape (1995) helping to propel the band to mass popularity in the UK and beyond. The eponymous Blur was released in 1997 and seventh album Think Tank (2003) was Blur’s first as a three-piece after the temporary departure of founding guitarist Graham Coxon. One of the most successful British bands of the last two decades, Blur have won a total of five BRIT Awards, and were twice nominated for the Mercury Music Award.
About the Director
Sam Wrench is a London-based documentary, music and commercials director who forged a relationship with Blur through his fresh approach and passion for the band. His most recent feature documentary with Mary J Blige, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in April. With New World Towers, he captured the most intimate interviews working alone with the band members in the relaxed atmosphere of their respective homes, which contrasts beautifully with the extravagant multi-camera coverage of their Hyde Park show and the atmospheric approach to the Hong Kong concert.
About BlinkTV
BlinkTV is one of the world’s leading producers and distributors of live music content and films. The company has built up a star studded roster over the years, comprised of many of the biggest names in the business, and has recently commenced production on the sequel to the legendary Buena Vista Social Club film.
For further information contact BlinkTV
www.blinktv.com