Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, the celebrated duo behind the iconic sound of Nine Inch Nails, have opened up about their recent work scoring the film ‘Challengers’ directed by Luca Guadagnino. In a revealing interview with IndieWire, Reznor articulated how the score reflects the film’s emotional depth, saying, “The music we created for ‘Challengers’ ventures into areas we’ve never explored before, weaving complex emotions into every note.”
Guadagnino, known for his distinct visual storytelling, approached Reznor and Ross with a vision that required a sonic depth, something Ross noted was “instrumental in capturing the film’s essence.”
The creative duo, who have garnered accolades for their cinematic soundtracks including ‘The Social Network’, continue to push the boundaries of sound in an industry they feel is diminishing in significance. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Reznor expressed his frustration saying, “Music now feels largely relegated to something that happens in the background. It’s like the world doesn’t listen anymore.”
Reflecting on their musical journey, the pair discussed the cultural shifts that have impacted artists. Reznor lamented, “The music world now feels like a concoction where style often supersedes substance. It’s a tough climate for artists who seek to communicate real emotion and depth.”
The duo’s emphasis on authentic artistry is echoed in their music as they prepare to tour with Nine Inch Nails later in the year. Citing their commitment, Ross mentioned that while the industry has changed, their focus remains steadfast, stating, “We’re here to create art that resonates and sparks a conversation, no matter the medium.” Their work on ‘Challengers’ stands testimony to their evolution and dedication to crafting meaningful soundscapes.
