Acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan has revealed the unexpected reason behind his choice to record the pulsating soundtrack for his mind-bending thriller Tenet at BBC's iconic Maida Vale Studios rather than in Hollywood.
The Allure of Maida Vale
In a recent interview, the Oscar-winning director explained that the legendary London studio's unique atmosphere and history proved irresistible. "There's something about the space at Maida Vale that's extraordinary," Nolan told the BBC. "The history of the performances there, the nature of the building - it has a very special feel."
A Sonic Experiment
Nolan collaborated with composer Ludwig Göransson to create Tenet's innovative score, which famously features time-reversed orchestral elements mirroring the film's temporal themes. The director praised the studio's ability to accommodate their unconventional recording techniques: "We were doing some pretty radical things with the orchestra - recording things backwards and forwards simultaneously."
Hollywood vs. London
The decision marks a departure from industry norms, as most major film scores are typically recorded in Los Angeles. Nolan admitted the choice surprised even his own team: "When I said we were going to record the score in London, people thought I was crazy." However, the director believes the gamble paid off, resulting in one of cinema's most distinctive soundtracks.
Maida Vale Studios, which opened in 1909, has hosted legendary artists from The Beatles to David Bowie before closing its doors in 2018. Tenet stands as one of its final major film projects.
