Peter Gabriel Thanks Josh Safdie for ‘Marty Supreme’ Soundtrack: “I Have Always Loved Table Tennis”

Peter Gabriel expresses gratitude for the inclusion of his track in the ‘Marty Supreme’ soundtrack, celebrating his longtime love for table tennis.

A Legendary Tune Meets a Modern Film

When a classic song finds its way into today’s cinema, it’s always a special moment—especially when it’s a track from a music giant like Peter Gabriel. The legendary artist personally thanked director Josh Safdie for featuring his 1982 hit, “I Have The Touch,” in the fresh and critically acclaimed movie Marty Supreme. This nod to Gabriel’s music breathes new life into the track, bridging decades and genres with sleek style.

Peter Gabriel performing live, showcasing his enduring influence.

Safdie’s film, which hits UK cinemas on Boxing Day, stars the magnetic Timothée Chalamet playing Marty Mauser, an American table tennis prodigy whose character draws inspiration from the real ping pong champion Marty Reisman. The movie is a vibrant blend of humor, drama, and an audacious love for the game—ping pong takes center stage like never before.

An Anachronistic Soundtrack That Works

Set in the 1950s, Marty Supreme surprises with its soundtrack choices that don’t always stick to the era. It throws in some wonderfully anachronistic songs from big names like Tears For Fears, New Order, and Public Image Ltd. This mix is anything but predictable, and it adds an energetic, modern edge to the film’s vintage vibe.

Among these eclectic picks is Peter Gabriel’s “I Have The Touch,” a track from his fourth solo album released in 1982. Gabriel, known for his time with Genesis as well as his solo career, expressed his delight about the inclusion of this song on his official website:

“I was delighted that ‘I Have The Touch’ was chosen for the soundtrack of Marty Supreme.” — Peter Gabriel

The song itself isn’t one that gets played out often, which makes its appearance here feel all the more meaningful. Gabriel added with a touch of personal charm, “The song is rarely asked out for a dance and I have always loved table tennis. Now there seems to be a real buzz about the film. Thank you to the director Josh Safdie!”

A Glimpse of “I Have The Touch”

Gabriel’s track brings an electrifying pulse to the film, perfectly complementing the intense energy of the ping pong matches and the characters’ emotional journeys. If you’ve never really soaked in the vibe of “I Have The Touch,” this is a fantastic introduction.

Marty Supreme: A Film About Life and Love Through Ping Pong

The film Marty Supreme has been winning hearts and critics alike, even earning a glowing five-star review. The reviewer Jordan Bassett praised Safdie’s direction as:

“So frenetic that it somehow makes table tennis even more thrilling than the rubber-burning race scenes in F1, while there are at least three jaw-dropping set-pieces that Safdie lands on you like gleefully delivered trick shots.”

It’s not just about the sport—it’s about living life to the fullest, embracing love without cynicism, and pushing boundaries with fearless enthusiasm. The film’s fast-talking characters share a bond so strong it feels like your heart might just burst watching their interactions. Bassett wraps it perfectly:

“This is a story about living a great life, however you may define that. It is a film about living fully and without fear, a cynicism-free zone where, for all their fast-talking, people love each other so much it makes your heart feel like it’s about to burst. Talk about a smash.”

Timothée Chalamet’s Star Power and Music Collaborations

Chalamet’s campaign for Marty Supreme has been turning heads beyond the film itself. He’s even ventured into music collaborations, notably with UK rapper EsDeeKid, sparking rumors and curiosity around his involvement in the UK alt-rap scene. These rumors were swiftly put to rest, but they added an unexpected layer to his already dynamic public persona.

Peter Gabriel’s Musical Legacy Grows

While the spotlight for now shines on Marty Supreme, Peter Gabriel continues to make waves in the music and festival world. His WOMAD Festival, a celebrated event known for its rich cultural mix, will be expanding to Glasgow in 2026, broadening its reach alongside the traditional Wiltshire event held every July.

Why This Soundtrack Choice Matters

The inclusion of “I Have The Touch” in Marty Supreme is a wonderful example of how music can act as a connective tissue across times and stories. Gabriel’s heartfelt thanks to Safdie underline just how special such moments can be for artists. For fans of Gabriel or anyone who’s ever found joy in table tennis, this movie and its soundtrack are a delightful collision of passions.

FAQ

• What song by Peter Gabriel is featured in Marty Supreme?
  The track “I Have The Touch” from his 1982 solo album is part of the movie’s soundtrack.
• Who directed Marty Supreme?
  Josh Safdie is the director responsible for this unique table tennis comedy-drama.
• Is Marty Supreme based on a true story?
  The film’s main character, Marty Mauser, is loosely inspired by real-life ping pong champion Marty Reisman.
• What other artists are featured in the Marty Supreme soundtrack?
  Besides Peter Gabriel, songs by Tears For Fears, New Order, and Public Image Ltd also appear.
• When will the WOMAD Festival in Glasgow take place?
  The new Glasgow edition of WOMAD Festival is planned for 2026.

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