Garth Jennings, the director of Pulp: What Do You Do For an Encore?, talks about his documentary that explores the career of the British band Pulp. The film blends footage from a 2025 London concert with historical material, offering a look at the band’s evolution. Available on the streaming platform Mubi, the documentary was inspired by Jennings’ long-time appreciation for Pulp, which began in the 1990s when he worked on music videos, including Help the Aged and A Little Soul, both created for the band. Jennings reconnected with Pulp’s lead singer, Jarvis Cocker, after moving to Paris, where Cocker also lived at the time. When rumors of Pulp’s reunion emerged in 2022, Jennings reached out to Cocker, offering to film the event. The project eventually moved forward after the band released their 2025 album More, which provided the necessary funding. The film’s structure combines concert footage with archival images to trace Pulp’s journey from a local band to stadium performers. Jennings aimed to introduce the band’s music to a new audience, emphasizing that pop music is meant to be widely enjoyed. Cocker narrates the documentary, providing a personal and reflective perspective. Rather than following a traditional documentary format, Jennings opted for a more intimate and direct approach. The film uses existing documents, including materials preserved by guitarist Mark Webber, as well as footage from television appearances and old documentaries sourced from the BBC, ITV, and other international channels. Jennings highlights what makes Pulp unique, pointing to the band’s authenticity and the way Cocker’s lyrics capture everyday life while also touching on broader themes. He describes Cocker’s stage presence as hypnotic and notes that working with him was easy, as Cocker is always expressive and in motion. Jennings also discusses the synergy between music and visuals in the film, pointing to moments where Cocker’s timing on stage and in song align perfectly, creating a powerful effect similar to iconic scenes in films like E.T.. The documentary not only celebrates Pulp’s music but also showcases the enduring bond between Jennings and the band. By blending past and present, the film offers a tribute to the band’s legacy while also highlighting the emotional and artistic connection that has kept Pulp relevant over the years. Jennings’ approach ensures that the film feels both nostalgic and fresh, appealing to long-time fans and newcomers alike.