Romantic Comedy Celebrates Manchester’s Musical Soul

How the Soundtrack Builds the Love Story

The new romantic comedy Finding Emily , set in Manchester and starring Angourie Rice and Spike Fearn, is now in cinemas. Released on May 23, 2026, the film pays tribute to the city’s rich musical legacy, featuring a soundtrack packed with local hits and a surprise appearance by indie band Blossoms.

Directed with a keen ear for music, Finding Emily uses its soundtrack not just as background noise but as a narrative engine. Each song ties into the protagonists’ journey—from tentative first meetings to emotional breakthroughs. The film highlights Manchester’s influence on British music, weaving in tracks from iconic bands like The Smiths, Joy Division, and Oasis. Modern acts such as The 1975 and Blossoms also appear, bridging generations of the city’s sound.

Music drives the emotional arc of the film. Early scenes use upbeat tracks from The Stone Roses and Happy Mondays to capture the city’s vibrant energy. As the central romance deepens, slower, introspective songs—like New Order’s „Love Will Tear Us Apart”—mirror the characters’ inner conflicts. One pivotal scene features a stripped-down cover of „There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” performed live in a Manchester pub.

Could This Film Revive Interest in Manchester’s Music Scene?

Lead actress Angourie Rice described the soundtrack as „a love letter to the city.” „You don’t just hear the music—you feel it in the streets, the cafes, the way people talk,” she said in a recent interview. Spike Fearn added that working with Blossoms on set was surreal. „They weren’t just cameos—they felt like part of the story,” he noted.

The film’s music supervisor curated 18 tracks, all by Manchester-linked artists. Universal Pictures confirmed the official soundtrack album will drop digitally the week after the film’s release, with a limited vinyl edition available at local record shops across the city.

With tourism in Manchester already boosted by music heritage trails and venue tours, Finding Emily could deepen that appeal. Local businesses report increased foot traffic near filming locations, especially the Northern Quarter spots featured in key scenes. Music schools and indie bands in the region see the film as a platform for wider recognition.

The success of Finding Emily may inspire more region-focused musical storytelling in British cinema. Its blend of romance and hometown pride sets a new template—one where the city is not just a backdrop, but a living, breathing character.

Frequently Asked Questions

What bands appear on the Finding Emily soundtrack? The soundtrack includes The Smiths, Joy Division, Oasis, New Order, The Stone Roses, Happy Mondays, The 1975, and Blossoms. All are connected to Manchester’s music scene.

Did any musicians have acting roles in the film? Yes, members of Blossoms made a cameo appearance. They appear in a pub performance scene that plays a key role in the plot.

Will there be a physical release of the soundtrack? Yes. A limited vinyl edition will be sold at independent record stores in Manchester. The full album launches digitally one week after the film’s premiere.