BFI London Film Festival Closes with Lego-Animated Pharrell Williams Documentary Amid Protests
October 21, 2024The film premiered at the Royal Festival Hall as part of the festival's closing gala, where it faced protests from animal rights activists due to Williams' role at Louis Vuitton.
During the premiere, protesters interrupted the event, chanting messages about animal rights, which Williams acknowledged by emphasizing the need for gradual change.
The film critiques the sanitized nature of celebrity documentaries while still marketing Williams' appeal, and it cleverly reimagines him as a collectible figure.
Overall, 'Piece By Piece' is a family-friendly narrative that highlights Pharrell's talent and perseverance, while omitting some of the more controversial aspects of his career.
Neville emphasized the necessity of using Lego as a medium to depict Williams' journey, which includes his emotional struggles and artistic achievements.
The 68th edition of the BFI London Film Festival concluded with the animated documentary 'Piece By Piece,' which creatively uses Lego animation to tell the story of Pharrell Williams.
Directed by Morgan Neville, the film highlights Williams' life and career, showcasing his extensive influence in the music industry and his collaborations with major artists.
Williams described the film as an 'amazing experience of history,' praising Neville for vividly narrating his story in a way that resonates with both his children and a wider audience.
The film employs a mix of talking heads and vintage b-roll, with animated recreations of Pharrell's hit songs, creating a unique and engaging viewing experience.
Despite its vibrant animation, some critics argue that the documentary's structure may not fully engage younger audiences, as it revolves around relatively superficial issues.
Looking ahead, Neville hinted at a potential sequel that could explore Williams' recent role as creative director for Louis Vuitton, suggesting further depth to his story.
Summary based on 11 sources
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Sources
The Telegraph • Oct 20, 2024
Piece by Piece: this Lego Pharrell Williams biopic is a brick-busting delightVariety • Oct 20, 2024
Pharrell's 'Piece by Piece' U.K. Screening Disrupted by ProtestersThe Hollywood Reporter • Oct 20, 2024
‘Memoir of a Snail,’ ‘Mother Vera’ Win BFI London Film Festival AwardsEvening Standard • Oct 20, 2024
Pharrell Williams director: I cannot imagine documentary about him without Lego