Focus Features, Pharrell Williams, The LEGO Group to Release Film

Focus Features, musician/designer, Pharrell Williams and The LEGO Group are working on a film, “Piece by Piece,” based on Williams’ story, built by one LEGO brick at a time.  

“Piece by Piece” was directed by Academy Award winner, Morgan Neville, and produced by Neville and Caitrin Rogers (Tremolo Productions) alongside producers, Williams, Mimi Valdés and Shani Saxon (i am OTHER, Williams’ film and television production company). Jill Wilfert and Keith Malone are executive producing for the LEGO Group. The film will debut in theaters Oct. 11. 

“Pharrell Williams is a true trailblazer whose influence across music, art and fashion continually reshapes global culture with an undeniable sense of joy,” says Peter Kujawski, chairman, Focus Features. “In partnering with the inimitable Morgan Neville and the limitless creativity of the LEGO brand his visionary spirit comes to life in a wholly unique and uplifting way that will inspire everyone to dance, to sing and to use their voice to build the world they want to see, brick by brick and piece by piece.” 

“Five years ago, Pharrell Williams approached me with the idea of helping him tell his story through LEGO animation,” says Neville. “It was one of those rare moments where I knew in a second that this was a journey I wanted to go on. I’m grateful to our partners at Focus Features and at the LEGO Group for their belief in our crazy mission. We assembled an incredible team of creative collaborators to help make a new type of film. I can’t wait for people to see it.” 

“When I had this crazy vision to tell this story through LEGO bricks, I couldn’t have imagined a better partner than Morgan – he is a legend,” says Williams. “Grateful that Focus wanted to collaborate with us and I’m honored to share this with the world and bring people into my universe. Building with LEGO bricks encourages us to follow our imagination; who would’ve thought that playing with these toys as a kid would evolve into a movie about my life. It’s proof that anyone else can do it, too.” 

“Pharrell is a true visionary and is someone who continually pushes the boundaries of what creativity means; something very close to our hearts here at the LEGO Group,” says Wilfert. “We believe the LEGO brick is the ultimate creative medium, allowing people to build, unbuild and rebuild in as many ways as they can imagine, mirroring how Pharrell has continually innovated in his own life. Getting the opportunity to partner with him, with an incredible storyteller like Morgan Neville and the wonderful team at Focus Features has been truly inspiring. The combined creativity of Pharrell and the LEGO brick is truly something special to see come together.” 

Williams, i am OTHER, Neville and “Piece by Piece” are represented by WME.