Paul Thomas Anderson Helms Video for the Smile’s ‘Friend of a Friend’

Radiohead side project the Smile have released a music video for their recent single, “Friend Of A Friend,” which was directed by filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson. The video premiered in 35mm alongside a surround sound album playback of the group’s new LP, Wall of Eyes, at a series of events at independent cinemas held in 18 cities.

In the clip, the three-piece band, which includes Radiohead members Thom Yorke and Johnny Greenwood alongside drummer Tom Skinner, performs in a school gym in front of a crowd of children. Most of the young audience seem unamused by the introspective, ambient song.

The Smile’s sophomore album, Wall of Eyes, is out today via XL Recordings. The LP was recorded between Oxford and Abbey Road Studios, and was produced and mixed by Sam Petts-Davies. It features string arrangements by the London Contemporary Orchestra.

The album marks the Smile’s second full-length together, and their first since 2022’s A Light for Attracting Attention. The record was previewed on tour over the last two years. Anderson also directed the music video for the title track, “Wall of Eyes,” which arrived in November.

In addition to releasing their new album, the Smile will also head back out on the road this year in Europe and the U.K., with dates in March, June, and August. The band will also perform at the BBC 6 Music festival in Manchester, England on March 9, where they will be joined on stage by the London Contemporary Orchestra.