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Tim Pope is a British director whose work has helped shape the visual language of music videos and live concert films over the past four decades. Known for his inventive and often surreal style, Tim has collaborated with a wide range of influential artists, as well as made contributions to film, television, and advertising.

His interest in filmmaking began early, leading him to study at Ravensbourne College of Art in Bromley. One of his first industry roles involved operating cameras for a media training company that worked with politicians—a job that unexpectedly gave him access to 10 Downing Street. Ever resourceful, Tim began using this access to 'borrow' equipment and film live performances of bands like The Psychedelic Furs and The Specials, capturing a vibrant era in British music from behind the lens.

In the early 1980s, as the music video medium gained momentum, Tim became a frequent collaborator with some of the biggest names in music, including David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Neil Young, Queen, Paul Weller, and Talk Talk. He is perhaps best known for his long-standing creative partnership with The Cure, having directed 37 of their videos—many of which remain iconic for their imagination and emotional tone.

Tim's work also spans television and film. He co-created the quirky documentary series The Groovy Fellers with Jools Holland, and has directed several concert films, including The Cure in Orange and David Bowie’s 50th Birthday Celebration at Madison Square Garden. His short film Phone received critical attention and drew praise from Martin Scorsese.

In 1996, he directed the feature film The Crow: City of Angels in Hollywood. Despite some post-production interference, the film opened at No. 1 at the U.S. box office and has since found a loyal audience. Tim has also directed commercials for brands such as Kodak, Coca-Cola, and the BBC.

In recent years, he returned to live music filmmaking with Anniversary, a concert film marking The Cure’s 40th year, released in over 2,500 cinemas globally. In 2023, his film The The: The Comeback Special topped video charts and was well received by fans and critics alike. In 2019, he directed Coming Home, an ITV documentary about actress Sheridan Smith that explored themes of mental health and personal resilience.

As Patron of the Film Faculty at BIMM Berlin, Tim supports emerging filmmakers through a dedicated scholarship program. He continues to speak at film schools and events, sharing his experience and insights with the next generation of creatives.

Looking ahead, he plans to direct his next feature film, The Beating of a Moth’s Wing, starring Béatrice Dalle (Betty Blue). He is also set to publish his memoir, I Shoot Rock Stars - My Wild Journey from Fanboy to Music Video Director, which is being considered for a television adaptation. Additionally, Tim is working on a new documentary exploring the history and to celebrate the 50th year of The Cure, in close collaboration with Robert Smith.

Throughout his career, Tim Pope has remained passionate about storytelling through images—whether on stage, screen, or set—and continues to explore new ways of bringing music and film together.

From the London Evening Standard, 1974.
Directing Freddy Mercury in Frankfurt, 1984.
On the set of "Hot Hot Hot" for The Cure, 1987.
With Rod Hull & Emu, 1999.
With Paul Weller, Abbey Road Studios, 2015.
Filming with Tim Burgess in Firle, UK, September 2020.