Exploring Deep Narratives

In his latest interview, director Morgan Neville discusses the intricacies of creating a documentary, emphasizing the importance of delving beyond surface narratives. Neville acknowledges that touching on personalities like Michael Jackson presents narrative complexities which can be tricky to navigate. He has avoided certain celebrity interviews, focusing instead on unique stories and deeper truths within the industry.

A Turbulent Time for the Music Industry

The release of Neville's latest movie coincides with some upheavals in the music world, which he notes is a necessary reckoning. Contrasting the drama in the industry, Neville highlights Pharrell's stable lifestyle, devoid of typical rock-and-roll cliches, offering a refreshing perspective on stories that traditionally delve into controversy.

Challenging the Typical Narrative

For Neville, the real tension lies in uncovering creative journeys. His mentor once advised him that the most mundane stories involve sex, drugs, and betrayals in the music scene. Following this wisdom, Neville aims to capture the more meaningful aspects of artistic life, as evidenced by his work on figures like Steve Martin.

The Appeal of Paul McCartney

Despite contemplating a break from music documentaries, Neville was irresistibly drawn to working on a project centered around Paul McCartney, particularly due to his lifelong admiration of The Beatles. He is excited to explore McCartney's journey post the iconic band's breakup.

While he acknowledges the role of AI in previous productions, Neville asserts he will steer clear of it moving forward, focusing instead on genuine storytelling.

Follow the complete conversation and insights from Neville at Wired.