Filmmaker Ben Wheatley's Secret Music Career Revealed

Director Ben Wheatley has revealed a hidden talent as the prolific music producer Dave Welder, having independently released 26 diverse music albums in just over a year. This extensive body of work includes a four-hour-long ambient album, showcasing a significant artistic endeavor outside his acclaimed film career. Wheatley, known for directing major Hollywood productions and critically noted independent films, found a creative outlet in music production through GarageBand, describing it as a flow state. This secret musical passion has now culminated in his latest project, the experimental sci-fi film 'Bulk,' for which he not only directed but also composed the entire score and created all the visual effects. The film itself embraces a 'cottage industry' aesthetic, featuring hand-drawn credits and instructions for recreating the soundtrack, echoing a punk-inspired DIY ethos.

Wheatley views his music production as a healthy distraction and a productive means of creative expression, distinct from his demanding film projects. He sees it as a natural extension of his artistic drive, rather than a departure from his directorial work. This multifaceted approach extends to his film 'Bulk,' where he served as writer, director, composer, and visual effects artist, even hand-drawing the film's credits. The film's lo-fi special effects and playful dubbing contribute to its unique, experimental nature, drawing inspiration from diverse musical acts like the Fall and Aphex Twin.

This prolific output and DIY spirit, particularly evident in 'Bulk,' are not necessarily a reaction against his big-budget Hollywood experiences, such as 'Meg 2,' but rather a complementary facet of his creative process. While working on other films, Wheatley continued to produce music, finding pleasure in listening to his own compositions. He is now exploring innovative ideas for immersive cinema, aiming to combine film screenings with stacked sound systems and light shows, creating experiences akin to a live concert within a cinema. Dave Welder has even held clandestine live performances, including one at London's Cafe Oto, emphasizing his desire for his music to be experienced by audiences.