Franz Ferdinand - Dark of the Matinee Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When was 'Dark of the Matinée' released?

   'Dark of the Matinée' was released as a single on April 19, 2004. It is the third single from Franz Ferdinand's eponymous debut studio album.

2. What inspired the chorus and title of 'Dark of the Matinée'?

   The chorus and title were inspired by bassist Bob Hardy's remark that the dark of a matinée performance was a utopian environment to play in.

3. How did the video for 'Dark of the Matinée' draw inspiration from Dennis Potter's works?

   The video features adults dressed as schoolboys, miming along to the track, which was inspired by Dennis Potter's television play 'Blue Remembered Hills.' It also uses lip-sync devices similar to those in Potter’s serials like 'Pennies from Heaven' and 'The Singing Detective.'

4. Why was Franz Ferdinand unable to shoot the music video at Bearsden Academy?

   Although initially receptive, Bearsden Academy ultimately rejected Franz Ferdinand's request to shoot there because having schoolboys in their early 30s might evoke memories of a recent scandal involving Brian MacKinnon.

5. Who is Terry Wogan mentioned in the song?

   Terry Wogan was a famous UK national television presenter. In the song, there's a fantasy sequence where Alex Kapranos imagines telling Terry Wogan about his success.

6. 'Dark of the Matinée' reached what position on the UK Singles Chart?

   'Dark of the Matinée' reached number eight on the UK Singles Chart.