Anderson and Greenwood Seek Removal of ‘Phantom Thread’ Score
Director Paul Thomas Anderson and musician Jonny Greenwood are seeking the removal of a musical segment from the 2017 film “Phantom Thread” that has been included in the documentary “Melania.” This request signals a significant concern regarding the use of copyrighted material without proper consultation.
Background on the Controversy
Jonny Greenwood, who composed the score for “Phantom Thread,” expressed his discontent regarding the unauthorized use of his music. In a statement released through his representative, Greenwood and Anderson noted that Universal Pictures had failed to consult Greenwood before allowing the music’s use. This oversight is considered a breach of Greenwood’s composer agreement.
Details on the ‘Melania’ Documentary
The documentary “Melania,” directed by Brett Ratner, attempts to provide a deeper insight into the life of the First Lady, though critiques suggest it ultimately lacks substantial revelations. To date, the film has grossed $13.35 million domestically after its first two weekends, which is considered a notable amount for a documentary outside the realms of nature or music themes.
- Production Costs: Amazon MGM acquired “Melania” and developed a companion docu-series for $40 million.
- Marketing Expenditure: An additional $35 million was spent on marketing.
These costs are unprecedented in the documentary genre, raising questions about Amazon’s intentions and its relationship with the current administration.
Industry Reactions
There is considerable speculation in the industry regarding Amazon MGM’s lavish spending. The substantial investment may signal a strategy to cultivate a favorable relationship with political figures. Additionally, theater owners generally retain about half of ticket sales, making it challenging to recoup the high production and marketing costs associated with “Melania.”
Jonny Greenwood’s Composing Legacy
Beyond “Phantom Thread,” Greenwood boasts a prolific career as a film composer. Over the past 25 years, he has contributed to the scores of 12 films, including notable titles like:
- There Will Be Blood
- Inherent Vice
- Liquorice Pizza
- One Battle After Another
In a review by Variety’s Owen Gleiberman, Greenwood’s score for “Phantom Thread” was praised for its atmospheric tension, evoking a classic 1950s Hitchcock aesthetic.
As the situation surrounding “Melania” unfolds, the discussions about copyright, music rights, and the intent behind the film’s production continue to attract attention within the film community. The outcome of Anderson and Greenwood’s request could set important precedents in the industry.
