'Dreaming of You': New film Chronicles The Coral's rise to indie icons
24 July 2025
Newsdesk
Sony Music Vision and J6 Films have announced that 'Dreaming of You: The Making of The Coral' will receive a UK theatrical release starting September 12th. This new film delves into the fascinating origins of the Wirral sextet who emerged from Merseyside to become a pivotal force in the early 2000s British indie scene.
The documentary traces the journey of six childhood friends who, despite their unassuming roots, developed into one of the new millennium's most influential British guitar bands. Their distinctive blend of psychedelic rock and roll offered a much-needed jolt to the post-Britpop music landscape.
Narrated by the band members themselves, the film offers an immersive experience, cleverly weaving together archival footage, animated sequences, and reconstructed scenes. It aims to transport audiences back to the early 2000s, showing the era through the eyes of these Northern teenagers as they crafted their unique, escapist musical universe. As The Coral left their quiet hometown of Hoylake to pursue musical aspirations, the film explores whether their quest was for fame or simply the bond of friendship.
Nick Power of The Coral commented on the film's core theme, stating, "If you’re going to tell the story of The Coral, then it would be about growing up. An adventure that led to an album." James Skelly, also from the band, added a touch of their characteristic quirk, revealing, "The first incarnation of the band was a Ghosthunting business.”
Featuring appearances from fellow indie stalwarts like The Lightning Seeds, The Zutons, and Tramp Attack, 'Dreaming of You: The Making of The Coral' is described as a "dreamscape of friendship, fame and fuzzy guitars." Director James Slater emphasized the film's authentic visual approach, incorporating formats like Mini DV, Hi-8, 16mm, and 8mm, alongside 8-bit computer game and comic book animation elements, all set to the band's music.
Ian Sharpe, Head of Film & TV Creative at Sony Music Vision UK & Europe, expressed enthusiasm, calling the film "a celebration of The Coral’s extraordinary journey."
Tickets for 'Dreaming of You: The Making of The Coral' are available now.