Paul Thomas Anderson and composer Jonny Greenwood have requested the removal of music from the film Phantom Thread after it was used without proper permission in the documentary Melania. The unauthorized inclusion of Greenwood’s score appeared shortly after the documentary premiered, causing concern for both creators due to the association with the film’s controversial subject matter. This situation unfolded about ten days after Melania’s release to theaters.
Unauthorized Use of Score Sparks Disapproval
Anderson and Greenwood addressed the issue in a statement obtained by Variety, highlighting that a segment of the Phantom Thread score was included in Melania without consent. The score, while composed by Greenwood, is under copyright held elsewhere, and Universal—responsible for licensing—did not consult Greenwood before granting permission. As a result, the two have officially asked that the music be taken out of the documentary.
It has come to our attention that a piece of music from Phantom Thread has been used in the ‘Melania‘ documentary,
said Anderson and Greenwood.
While Jonny Greenwood does not own the copyright in the score, Universal failed to consult Jonny on this third-party use which is a breach of his composer agreement. As a result Jonny and Paul Thomas Anderson have asked for it to be removed from the documentary.
Concerns Over Associating Work with Controversial Documentary
There are multiple reasons Anderson and Greenwood likely object to their music’s inclusion in Melania. The documentary, often criticized for serving as a promotional instrument for the Trump administration and directed by a filmmaker accused of sexual misconduct, conflicts with their personal and professional boundaries. Both men appear to have avoided public alignment with President Trump, in contrast with Greenwood’s Radiohead bandmate Thom Yorke, who has expressed critical views about the former president on several occasions.
Implications and Next Steps in Dispute
This dispute underscores the complexities involved in music licensing and the desire of creators to control their work’s associations. With Anderson and Greenwood’s request publicly announced, the documentary’s producers face pressure to comply. Their move highlights the sensitivity artists have toward the contexts in which their art is placed, especially when it intersects with political and ethical controversies. The outcome may impact future licensing practices to ensure better consultation with original creators.
