Sunday, 5 December 2010
Feedback
Targets: 1) use peer and self assessment to make any improvements to your video production
2) begin the ancillary tasks.
Friday, 3 December 2010
Thursday, 2 December 2010
Update
On a positive note however, in lessons, i have managed to make a minimum for 50seconds worth of solid work for the video. I also use the lesson times positively experimenting with the software.
Wednesday, 24 November 2010
Update-24/11/2010
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
Update 09/11/2010
Monday, 8 November 2010
Timetable
To shoot a club scene.
On Friday 5th of Novemeber, I sorted out the lighting to the room which will hopefully work well. Managed to get a strobe light and a variety of performers.
This is a very significant scene in the whole video as there will be a lot of eye contact between the characters and also physical interaction. It may be cliche but we are still aiming to keep the original codes and conventions of Hip/Hop and RnB videos.
Wednesday, 3 November 2010
THRILLER ANALYSIS
Michael Jackson- Thriller from MQC on Vimeo.
Thriller is a hit single which came out in1984, recorded by Michael Jackson for the Epic label. It reached number 4 in the U.S. singles chart and number 10 in the UK singles chart. The video is 14 minutes long and is considered as the greatest music video of all-time, and the song itself is considered to be one of Jackson’s signature songs. There is a clear relationship between the lyrics and the visuals in the music video. The video has no hidden messages as it goes straight to the point of it being ‘THRILLER’ .by just looking at the name of the track, it is obvious to the audience you can tell that the genre is gothic horror pop and we as the audience expect to see elements of this in the video. The video starts with a drama scene on Michael Jackson and his on screen girl friend walking through a grave yard after a night at the movies. The lead up to the track creates tension and atmosphere. This is also like a movie. It is one of the reasons why this video is so great, it is different and likeable.
It is very clear that in this video there is a narrative. The narrative is very important as it is one of the main reasons which makes this video so great. Like most narratives it starts of with everything going well then a proble and then the resolution. From the start we are introduced to two characters (one of which is the lead singer) and we are set up to a scene of which features gothic horror elements. The video allows the audience much more varied access to the performer, we see close-up shots; allowing eye contact and close observations. There is also a choreographed dance performance. This routine has become an iconic routine of Michael Jackson; this is part of the huge success of this song and video worldwide. There is a clear link between Michael Jackson and his dance routines; this is evident in all his music videos.
The tempo in the track is effectively used to work well with the dance in the routine. The tempo of the song is highlighted particularly in this music video by the pace of which the main artist and dancers move and walk to. The emphasis on certain lyrics (slamming door) the visuals also highlight this. The quick cuts go according to the tempo of the track. There is also frequent use of close up shots on the lead singer; these allow us to see facial expressions but also emphasis of the lyrics. Another reason as to why Close-up shots carry importance in this particular video, is the constant use of close-ups used to show costumes, this is part of the mise-en-scene. This shows how the mise-en-scene is important in helping to get a message across. However, there are also long shots which allow the audience see the location and mise-en-scene, we are able to see the graveyard with the performers dancing in their ‘horrific’ outfits. This is significantly used to create the gothic horror set and add depth to the track.
Angie Stone Cd Cover Analysis

The cover serves three main purposes:
1. To advertise and identify the contents of the music product. [It is also designed to be eye catching (audience lines of appeal: one line of appeal is called envy or emulation and another one is aspiration). It is also used for point of scale.]
2. To convey the artistic aspirations of the original [designed to show the insight into artist (personality, visual representation of the music) and it also establishes the artist's identity.]
3. It can be used for promotional efforts surrounding the product, as an identifiable image associated with it. [Maximizing sales/revenue and to establish target audience ,codes and conventions of the genre]
1. Typography:
Sophisticated
Simplistic
The font is cream coloured and is formal which reoresents soul music
2. Composition and layout:
Simplistic
Central framed (Implies that everything is hers including the song, music)
Close-up suggest her high status as an artist/song writer
Colours/effects:
3. CPR is reflective of the album cover.
Complementary colours (cream for the title and the twigs).
Complements overall mahogany
The colours suggest that the artist is down to earth
4. Main image of artist:
Mainly soul artists are black and are represnted as natural. This is evident throught the use of the twigs and her natural hair.
Humble - Looking up gentle; giving thanks to god?
Status - suggests quality (every woman).
She looks reflective/peaceful
Subverting the direct gaze pose
Diva? From her body language- The way she has positioned her hands as to say that she is glamorous and special.
4) Appearance:
Mahogany natural afro/blending.
Natural make up.
Absence of jewelery---->Grounded/ generic convention humble.
Natural beauty as opposed to 'sexy'
Overall, the front CD cover suggests that she takes her music seriously and want people to respect her . She doesnt want to be a sex symbol she want to ber herself , simple but authentic.
Plenary
1) What are the key features of CD sleeves?
• 8-14 tracks name
Barcode
• Record Company and logo
• Institutional information which includes who produced i t, which studio it was produced in and at which year
• Image can be possible
2) What makes a suitable CD cover design for your particular genre and artist?
• The album cover must relate closely to the music on the CD
• Unique style
• Colours can be either bright or black and white
Production Update
Monday 1st of November
Today we went to shoot another scene which is primarily in our opening sequence. We have added a new location into the music video. For the begining we have added a bedroom scene were the main female character is answering a phone call whereby someone is asking her to go out and her getting ready in her bedroom. We have added this scene into the storyline of the music video in order for the story to more effective and add to the female character's role.
Production Update
Wednesday 27th October
Today we started filming the opening scene of our music video and our tracking shots. Before this point we have encountered some problems which we dealt with. This includes us changing our female performer. This is due to our primary female performer Jaymee having commitment issues. However, our new female performer still fits into the conventions of female in a hip hop/ r'n'b music video. This far we have also filmed parts of the performing scenes using tricast but we still need to film more to ensure that we have the best footage to choose from.
Monday, 1 November 2010
Feedback
Wednesday, 13 October 2010
Male Performers
LOCATION
South Bank
London Eye
Drama Room
CAST
Main male performer
Main female performer
Dancers x2
Extras for party scene
PROP LIST
Video camera
Camera for photography
Green screen
Monday, 11 October 2010
Locations Part 1
London Eye Westminster:
The London eye has a beautiful view which has connotations for romance and lust. I believe this will work well with my video as we are trying to create a romantic atmosphere. The scenery around it is also very attractive.
South bank:
Has attractive scenery. We would shoot in south bank as an establishing shot of our video which will set the scene, this however may change as new ideas will begin to occur.
Westminster Bridge:
We have chosen this bridge as it is very dynamic and different to other bridges. The pillars are very attractive. We believe that a dance sequence or a romantic moment would work very well on this bridge.
Tower Bridge:
Again the tower bridge is another location which we thought would be effective and work really well in our video. The tower bridge has connotations of romance and the couple in the foreground present us with what would like to convey. On the tower bridge we are planning to shoot the couple walking and dancing together during late hours of the evening.
**The shots of the other locations are examples of what we could use for a variety of dance sequences and also 'romantic spots'.
Friday, 8 October 2010
Themes incorporated in the music video
Post-Modernism will be shown in our music video through a movie style opening. Also style over content which is a convention of post-modernist music videos would be shown through the extra effects which will be incorporated in the music video such as stop motion and black and white effects.
Feminism/Male gaze would be incorporated in out music video through the attractive female character in this music video who is the sexual interest of the male character in this video.
Lust is shown through the attraction between the male and female character in this music video and will be reinforced by the fact that the female character would always wear red which has connotations of lust and passion.
Exhibtion of Music Channels



Exhibtion of Music Channels
Here are a selection of music channels that would exhibit the track we have choosen.
MTV Base is a 24-hour music and general entertainment channel from MTV Networks International. The channel focuses primarily on music from the world of R'n'B, hip-hop, reggae, soul and urban.
Kiss TV is a commercial music television. The playlist predominantly consists of mainstream hip-hop, Dance and R&B.It is based on the format of the Bauer owned London radio station Kiss 100.
4Music showcases a range of pop centring on chart hits and current favourites, along with a range of music-themed programmes from Channel 4.
Camer Techniques
• Framing - where people, props etc are placed within the frame (the composition)
• Angles - high angle (birds eye view)- shot from above
• Aerial shot- filmed from a helicopter
• Low angle - filmed from below
• Movement Pan/panning - camera moves on a pivot left/right
• Tilt - Camera moves up or down on its pivot
• Track/tracking - shot attached to moving object to follow the action
• Zoom - camera moves in/out on an object
• Short Take - Shot lasts for a short time
• Long Take - Shot lasts for a long time
EDITING TECHNIQUES
• Quick cuts - Shot moves rapidly from one frame/ shot to the next
• Fade (fade to black)- One shot fades away to black and the next shot fades in
• Dissolve - One shot fades out as the next shot simultaneously fades in
• Wipe - A shot is literally wiped off the screen by another
• Slow motion - A sequence is slowed down
• Fast motion - A sequence is sped up
• Stop Motion - A series of still shots or drawings are taken with a still camera and mixed into a moving image program to create a digital animation sequence
Production Skills
• Reliable performance (Convincing performers)
• Good directorial skills (Assertive)
• Knowing and understanding the wants and expectations of the audience
• Time management (having a detailed plan)
• Thorough planning (Organisation)
• Good research
• Enthusiasm and motivation
• Camera skills (i.e. no shaky camera)
• Editing skills (e.g. Lip-syncing)
• Using suitable settings
• Utilising everyone’s skills
• Room for debate
• Being objective
Monday, 4 October 2010
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
Vox Pox Questions
2) Would you prefer to watch a narrative/performance/concept video? Why?
3) What do you like most about this song?
4) What ideas can you see working with this song in a music video?
Lyrics
Be right on time (x6)
Be right on time (x6)
I’m right on time (x6)
Shawty shawty shawty shawtys right on time
Since I laid eyes on you don’t no what to do
Cos baby girl your truth sitting next to you
If its ok with you can I come on through
Promise I’ll be there in a few
And I’ll be right on tiiiiiiiiiiime (Be rite on time)
Be right on time
Cos baby your so fine (I’m right on time)
Time
Be right on time
Cos baby ur so fine (x3)
Verse 1:
Shawty talk to me
Would you like it baby what’s your name?
Cos For some reason i can’t stop thinking about your frame
From your eyes to your lips to your thighs your so damn fly
Wanna know you
If its possible lay you down
Can i show you how i feel about you deep inside
How i feel real deep inside
You don’t have to be shy
Since I laid eyes on you don’t no what to do
Cos baby girl your truth sitting next to you
If its ok with you can I come on through
Promise I’ll be there in a few
And I’ll be right on tiiiiiiiiiiime (Be rite on time)
Be right on time
Cos baby your so fine (I’m right on time)
Time
Be right on time
Cos baby ur so fine (x3)
Verse 2
Clocks ticking
So tell me what its gonna be
If you listen gurantee your gna come home with me
Gurantee you'll come home with me then you'll see
How I put it down and i promise you won't wanna leave
Girl Ill make a sound
I'ma give you everything you need
Everything you need is with me
So get back with me
Chorus
Verse 3
Now do you think , I can be the one for you
I promise I will never make you sad
I refuse, refuse to be fault?
for not trying to get at you
Cos you wanna be with me
I will be guarantee
Girl you’re so peng to see
That I need your love, and make you my boo
Anything that you ask for I’ll do, BABAAAAAAAAAYYYY
Ooohh, ooohh oh oh
Since I laid eyes on you don’t no what to do
Cos baby girl your truth sitting next to you
If its ok with you can I come on through
Promise I’ll be there in a few
And I’ll be right on tiiiiiiiiiiime (Be rite on time)
Be right on time
Cos baby your so fine (I’m right on time)
Time
Be right on time
Cos baby ur so fine (x3)
(Coz we don’t want her, no we don’t want her!)
Sha-Sha-Shawty-Sha-Shawty I be rite on time….
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
Feedback
Saturday, 25 September 2010
SINGNATURE- RIGHT ON TIME
My group and I have choosen to go for a R'n'B song for our media production. We collectively decided to go for this song as we can envision a strong narrative for this song with performance aspects. We aim to subvert the generic conventions associated with R'n'B videos but still have elements of a tradional Hip/Hop, R'n'B music videos.
Tuesday, 14 September 2010
Friday, 10 September 2010
Strengths and weaknesses of ‘No more complaining’ and 'Black Rose'
Strengths:
*Sound editing
* Range of camera shots
Weaknesses:
* Lack of locations
* More close up needed
* Lack of directing skills as no expressions on
Strengths and weaknesses of ‘Black Rose
Strength:
* Good narrative
*range of camera shots
Weaknesses:
* Lighting problem
* Not constant cuts
This was very useful as it taught me what to do and what not to do.
Key ingredients/skills for a successful practical production
* Reliable/convincing performances
* Good camera skills
* Delegation
*Thorough planning
*Group work
*Good Timing
*Organisational skills
* Research background
*Good directorial skills
* Editing skills
* Sound editing
* Communication skills
* Suitable locations
*Utilising everyone’s skills
* Outsiders view
* Knowing/meeting audience expectations
Key ingredients/skills for a successful practical production
* Reliable/convincing performances
* Good camera skills
* Delegation
*Thorough planning
*Group work
*Good Timing
*Organisational skills
* Research background
*Good directorial skills
* Editing skills
* Sound editing
* Communication skills
* Suitable locations
*Utilising everyone’s skills
* Outsiders view
* Knowing/meeting audience expectations
Lady Gaga ‘Paparazzi’
Evidence of post modernist features:
* Style of title sequence is an example of pastiche/homage replicates classic Hollywood movie title sequence
* Dancers make it more contemporary
* Opening like a movie
* Pastiche/homage Alfred Hitchcock movie ‘Vertigo’
*Blurring of fiction + reality is used in the prison section and the paparazzi
* Shot in LA intertextuality sunset boulefuard
* Subtitles like a movie
* Purple carpet not red subverts stereotypes
* Parts of the video look as if it is a robot film. ‘ Star wars’ blurring off boundaries between humans and robots.
* Credits at the end movie like
* Video starts with no music again movie like
* Minnie mouse costumeintertextuality or simply referencing popular culture Lady Gaga could have used this for irony for example suggesting she is not as sweet as Minnie mouse as she just killed her boyfriend.
Lady Gaga ‘Paparazzi’
Evidence of post modernist features:
* Style of title sequence is an example of pastiche/homage replicates classic Hollywood movie title sequence
* Dancers make it more contemporary
* Opening like a movie
* Pastiche/homage Alfred Hitchcock movie ‘Vertigo’
*Blurring of fiction + reality is used in the prison section and the paparazzi
* Shot in LA intertextuality sunset boulefuard
* Subtitles like a movie
* Purple carpet not red subverts stereotypes
* Parts of the video look as if it is a robot film. ‘ Star wars’ blurring off boundaries between humans and robots.
* Credits at the end movie like
* Video starts with no music again movie like
* Minnie mouse costumeintertextuality or simply referencing popular culture Lady Gaga could have used this for irony for example suggesting she is not as sweet as Minnie mouse as she just killed her boyfriend.
Lady Gaga ‘Paparazzi’
Evidence of post modernist features:
* Style of title sequence is an example of pastiche/homage replicates classic Hollywood movie title sequence
* Dancers make it more contemporary
* Opening like a movie
* Pastiche/homage Alfred Hitchcock movie ‘Vertigo’
*Blurring of fiction + reality is used in the prison section and the paparazzi
* Shot in LA intertextuality sunset boulefuard
* Subtitles like a movie
* Purple carpet not red subverts stereotypes
* Parts of the video look as if it is a robot film. ‘ Star wars’ blurring off boundaries between humans and robots.
* Credits at the end movie like
* Video starts with no music again movie like
* Minnie mouse costumeintertextuality or simply referencing popular culture Lady Gaga could have used this for irony for example suggesting she is not as sweet as Minnie mouse as she just killed her boyfriend.
Thursday, 9 September 2010
Goldie - Inner city life Analysis
Goldie (Clifford Joseph Price) is an artist which delivers electronica, drum and bass, Jungle and dance.With an opening shot of the woman singing to the camera as images of large buildings appear overhead, from a low angle shot shows that estates from a high point of view suggesting that people that live there are looked down on. This sets the scene of the typical 'inner city'. She is clearly stressed, wiping her brow to connote the hard work she does for herself and her children. Therefore, this suggests from the beginning of the video, that 'inner city life' is difficult. It also shows how lower class, single parents are working really hard to try and provide the basics for their childrens.
This video reinforces the stereotypes of modern society upon its audience. The falling trolley from the building is proposing that this world is disordered and spiralling downwards. The hooded children are standing outside a building doing practically nothing, we as the audience assume that they are on the verge of causing trouble. With all the moral panics going on in society regarding young people this is reflective of the society as a whole. Young people equal crime. However as the video continues the stereotypes are adhered as the youth are playing ball. A high-angle shot of the DJ's vinyl spinning connotes the repetitive routine of 'inner city life' as the chorus begins: ‘inner city life, inner city pressure'.
A close-up tracking shot of males hands and lower body features, show an item being passed along in a rather suspicious way. We as the audience at this point are made to believe that drugs are bring shifted along the club, again this is not the case. It is actually a CD. Which is completely safe and doesn’t cause no harm. It goes to prove how today’s audiences are very predictable. It goes to show people in society are gullible and easily influenced by stereotypes and quick to label. The Message that are conveyed are that with 'inner city life' comes 'inner city pressure' to conform to 'inner city' stereotypes.
The close up of the bills shows how important they are to Goldie in her everyday life and due to her circumstances she cannot afford to pay them, she has difficulties paying them. Close-up of burning paper appears on screen, the camera zooming out to reveal Goldie holding the flaming bills. This enigmatic and uncertain end gives the audience room to question the videos motive.
Monday, 6 September 2010
Let Me Hold You Bow Wow- Music Video Analysis
Lil Bow Wow feat Omarion Let me hold you
Uploaded by williams_gwadada. - See the latest featured music videos.
• Postmodernist; movie style opening – in the opening sequence the female is answering her phone. This is a movie like style as she is having a conversation with the main male character (bow wow). This sets the narrative into place. Credits such as 'Barbarino Films presents' are used in short films.
• Whilst she gets up to walk to the door we as the audience see a tracking shot to connect us to the female’s character. At this point we can also see her facial expressions. This is effective as we are put in the females shoes and the sense of suspense has kicked in as we don’t know is at the door. The dialogue is used so it is easier for the audience to understand the narrative. The begging of the movie style music video ends with a fade out which informs us its the end of the movie style and into the beginning of the song is just about to occur.
• Examples of generic conventions of the Hip Hop/RnB genre:
1. An expensive car right at the beginning and at the end (Range Rover)
2. Loose outfits ( jumper and jeans) with bandana worn by Bow Wow
3. An attractive female of dual heritage (white and black)
4. (Bling) and diamonte belt buckle also worn by Bow Wow and Omarion.
5. A lot of attractive males and females
6. Dancing
• Lots of fades and quick cuts have been use throughout to show and tell a story. This also links into the smooth beat of the song. To be in sync with the beat quick fades have been used.
• Target audience for this song is 18- 24 year olds. This is because young adults can relate to the themes explored in the video. For example relationships, partying, night life, friendship. Young people can relate to this as they have a stereotype for being experimental. The most common reason as to why the target audience is 18-24 is the fact that the main performers are between that age ranges. Overall i strongly believe that through personal identity which when audiences can relate to the character of a text due to their personal qualities that are evident in their life.
• Overall, this music video was significant for me as my chosen track is of an unsigned artist. This will help me as the audience and convention which has been use in this video will most likely be used in mine.
Sunday, 5 September 2010
Lady Gaga's Paparazzi video analysis
The mise-en-scene at the beginning of the video connotes wealth and glamour. For example, the use of the decorative roof and the glamorous chandelier shows the audience the high maintenance of this video. This also represents Lady Gaga who supposedly is the owner of the big mansion. The use of champagne bottles and crystal glasses, and beautiful scenery promotes a luxury lifestyle.The typography used at the beginning of the video; 'A Serial Pictures Production' and 'Starring Lady Gaga' is a typical way to introduce a program in the 1950'sThe use of the birds chirping during shots creates realism and the fact that juxtaposition is used to create reality. There is a medium shot of money piled out on the floor with broken glass surrounding it. This could be linked in to the ‘serial’ at the beginning this is like a cycle that is found in soap operas and films. It can be interpreted that the actress in this case lady Gaga lives like and actress and behaves like an actress. During a mid shot Lady Gaga and her partner are on the balcony we are liked in to a point of view shot of a camera man (paparazzi) this is significant as it links in with the lyrics. This moment is also important as she is free and singing about this shows that the paparazzi have her permission to take pictures. This shows she is powerful and carefree. It can also be interpreted that what she is presenting to the paparazzi is all fiction and she is just doing it for the fame.
From the opening shot of palm trees we automatically think glamour and fabulousness. The palm tree are presented with a low angle shot making them look superior. Following straight after is the establishing shot of a mansion therefore reinforcing the idea of richness.
When Gaga is pushed off stage by her partner we are then presented with a swirly black and white background. This is a Hitchcock Homage as this scene makes reference to the 1958 film 'Vertigo' which sticks with the theme of the music video of re-presenting the 1950's. The use of icy, remote blonde 'femme fatale' character is also a hallmark of a Hitchcock film.At that moment in where Gaga is on the floor wrapped up in bandages, she looks helpless as she is injured. To promote this the constant use of high angle shots make her look inferior. During this scene, newspapers are shown with Lady Gaga on the front page with titles like 'No More Gaga'. These newspapers, the narrative of the music video and style of the music video has intertextual reference to Sunset Boulevard (1950).
Glamour is represented throughout the video. For example when Lady Gaga is being helped to get out of the limo we see a diamond necklace.
Lady Gaga's costumes relate to what people considered as fashion in the 1950's. For example her sunglasses with flaps that transform them into reading glasses was stylish eyewear in the 1950's. Also, later on in the music video there is an Extreme Close Up of red lipstick lips which was very popular with young women in the 50's, blonde hair was also a stylish hair colour to have at that time.However, Lady Gaga brings in a robotic style of dress and behaviour. For example when she is walking down the purple carpet from a closer up shot we see her wide eyes open even wider being controlled robotically. This is used effectively to compare humans with robots. This humanoid also has intertextual reference to the Fembot in Fritiz Lang's 1927 film Metropolis.
Lady Gaga also modernises her music video. Near the end of the video there is reference to pop culture her outfit is very libertarian. She uses Mickey and Minnie mouses ears. This will gratify audiences as they are familiar with those characters and are interested on the different take on it.The way in which the music video ends was a conventional way to end the programme ends relates to the 50's.
Long Shots are used in the music video to show performances like the dance scene which relates to pop music and is typical of music videos of that genre. In addition to this constant use of close up are being used to show lady Gaga’s facial expressions but also to remind the audience that this music video is Lady Gaga’s.
Overall to conclude i strongly believe that this music video is a postmodernist text as it uses many of many of conventions such as Blurring reality and fiction, Homage, Pastiche and Intertextuality Generally I feel this music video would appeal to young audiences as they look up to glamorous artists for inspiration. .
Thriller Analysis
Michael Jackson's 'The Thriller' video uses generic codes which follow the pop video genre. For instance, it incorporates the conventional boy meets girl and falls in love storyline. However, the video is also unstereotypical in the sense that it displays a film within a film, and we notice this when the two main characters are seen watching the film at the theatre. The scene where the zombies arise from the graves as Micheal sings of "evil rising" as the voiceover speaks of zombies and erosion of bodies, is an example of a convention of pop videos. The video shows cuts between scenes which run in sync with the music and images. In the same scene we can hear the music getting lower as the zombies approach and creep up towards the couple. As they completely surround them, we gain close ups of their rotting flesh and disintegrating body parts.
The effective camera angles and shot sizes used in the video help make 'Thriller' one of the most unique and selectively different videos of its time. The video includes a range of long shots, this is used to establish the location of the couple and makes us aware of the surroundings. Also, the mid-long shots are used to encapsulate the changing emotions of the two main characters, so this helps us follow the narrative. The high angle close-ups of zombies emphasise their horrific and hideous nature, and the long-shot of zombies dancing in co-ordination with Micheal Jackson all effectively link to the pop convention to display a clear relationship between sound and images.
The mise-en-scene within the video is related to the theme of horror and runs in accordance to the motifs featured in the video. The abandoned and deserted area with the decaying building shown in the background work well with the zombie costumes. This gives off a spooky ambiance that the song itself is trying to promote. The young couple can be related to the pop genre audience, as this is visible from their appearance; they are wearing fashionable leather jackets, sneakers (the boy- Jackson) and high heels (the girl- Ola Ray). Together, the smoke machine affects, the zombie costumes and the mid-shot of the female character in shock as Micheal transforms into a zombie and the background eventuallys fades; all follow the conventions encouraged by the pop genre with an included narrative.
The video 'Thriller' refers to intertexuality via the half boy half werewolf with which is evident in the 'American Werewolf in London' film. This enhances the audiences' viewing pleasure as the fans can relate to the already established link to the horror film genre. This idea was not only successful in generating a public interest, but was seen for the first time as a method of filming by referencing to other films, and proved to make the video unique.
Missy Elliots ' Shes A Bitch'
Missy Elliot - She's a Bitch
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Post-Feminist Reading
In Missy Elliot’s ‘She’s a Bitch’ the setting and artists clothing is consistently dark, perhaps going against the traditional stereotype of women of innocence. Missy seems to be creating a first impression of power and dominance and this too can be seen as going against traditional stereotypes of women.
This Missy Elliot song is a performance based video, which interestingly contains no males. The video begins with Missy Elliot’s name in large print in a dark grey colour. The size of the text connotes Missy Elliots massive fame at the time of the making of the video
During the video, Missy uses various methods to display that she is a strong character. She stylishly shows off a cowboy hat and also wears a cap, showing clothing that isn’t traditionally associated with women.
Lyrically, Missy’s strength is also shown and a certain masculinity is presented: ‘Give yo’ ass a black eye’ and ‘she’s a bitch’ are rude and controversial phrases that she is not afraid to use.
Throughout the video, Missy is presenting a certain role reversal as women are usually presented sex objects whilst men are presented as dominant. The backup dancers are dressed more revealingly. Missy is positioned ahead of them, further strengthening her position as a leader or someone with dominance. The girls reinforce the female stereotype but remain in the back, perhaps suggesting that it is time for old stereotypes to be left behind in the past.
Towards the end of the video, the backup dancers wear the same clothing as Missy, showing that they have begun to follow her lead. This significantly shows that Missy advocates change. She seems to have influenced these women successfully and has thus challenged traditional views of women, but the video could be seen as a message to other women out there who haven’t quite understood this yet.
Feminist Reading
On the other hand, one being the feminist approach would say that “she’s a bitch” is demeaning to the female gender and therefore representing the female gender negatively. Perhaps Missy purposely chose to use dancers dressed in revealing clothing because she knows she must also appeal to male audience.
The lyric ‘I'mma keep it hot’ can be interpreted as sexual. At one point she appears to be touching herself and this may be for the benefit of the male viewers as she still wishes to maintain their interest. Her use of earrings can also still be argued to represent certain elements of maintaining her feminism.
Overall, there is positive representations of the female gender in this music video except for in one scene which feminist would argue the female back up dancers are revealing too much of their body. It is likely that the video is aimed at woman as Missy tries to encourage female empowerment. Yet, this video still contains sex appeal and can therefore be interpreted to be aimed at males as well.
Friday, 16 July 2010
Post-Feminism (1980's) and The Male Gaze
*A re-appraisal of feminist values.
*Does not strive for 'equality' as this assumes that men are 'the best' - they wish to surpass male achievements.
*Objected to theories which position them as objects of the 'male gaze'.
*Identifies a 'female gaze'- women actively desiring men.
*Women began to assert their right to dress and be sexually attractive.
Gender Stereotypes in Music Videos
*Men engaged in significantly more dominant and aggressive behaviour.
*Men represented as independant, independant, adventurous, unemotional and competent.
*Women portrayed as decorative objects that dance, pose and do not play instruments.
*Stereotypical gendered occupations apparent, i.e. males as firefighters, mechanics, and women as Cheeleaders, waitresses, in narrative based music videos.
*Women represented as objects of sexual advances or sexual objects.
*Sex role stereotyping and negative attitudes towards females.
*Women more likely to be presented in provocative and revealing clothing
Wednesday, 7 July 2010
Britney Spears : Toxic
Post-Feminist Reading
*In the video Britney Spears instructs the man to come toward her. She uses the power of seduction to tempt him and he is such a weak character that he succumbs to her order.
*She wears the costume which makes her look nude to appeal to the male gaze. She uses her sedcution as she knows it will bring her success and fame.
*When she is in the aeroplane toilet with the man she pulls off his mask. Later in the video she throws the man off the bed and these two acts exeplify her strength.
*When in the bathroom with the man she takes his wallet, showing she deceptive. she is able to use her sexual charms to manipulate and exploit the man
*She enters another man's flat and pushes him on the bed showing she is assertive. As they make their way to the bed it is noticeable that there is a woman in the shower in the background.
*From this it can be interpreted that the man is already in a relationship but he is now being unfaithful. This suggests he is weak when it comes to seduction
*There is another moment when britney is walking from the fire and not looking back, showing she's in control and is fearless. The fire may also be a euphemism for an orgasm
Feminist Reading:
*Britney wears provocative clothing to attract a male audience so she confirms the female stereotype that women are sex objects
*She capitalises on her sexuality to get money. She may feel pressured to reveal skin because it is the only way she'll make money
*She has to use her image rather than her talent
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9kVZ1Zperc
Monday, 28 June 2010
Post feminist reading of Buttons video by Pussy Cat Dolls:
The Pussycat dolls - Buttons
Uploaded by mouad999. - See the latest featured music videos.
*“Wonder if I’m too much for you” the lyrics show how women are confident and can be in control and have self control.
• Dancing performance stereotypical
• Sexual power derived from physical attractiveness to men
• Provocative outfit ; women look good and therefore feel good
• Body language; upright shows women dominant
Generic Codes And Conventions
Rock:
• Performance based
• Long Hair
• Instruments
• Guitarists
• Close-ups of main performer
• Darkness
• Leather jeans torn
RnB:
• Eye candy
• Sexual references
• Materialistic objects( cars, money, bling, etc)
• Performance + narrative based
• Close ups of performers face
Dance:
• Close ups
• Performance + concept based
• Studio based
Friday, 25 June 2010
Codes and Conventions
2)What Music Genres do you know?
*Rap
* Hip-Hop
*RNB
*Soul
*Funky House
3) What are Codes and Conventions?
All genres will have a setr of ways that we as the audience will recognise them, these are known as codes and conventions. Codes are systems of signs, put together (usually in a sequence) to create meaning. Conventions are habits or long accepted ways of doing things. The audience becomes familiar with this.
4) Why is genre important?
Genre is very important as it creates the way we approach and respond to a text. In addition to this having more than one type of genre meets peoples needs as different people have different tastes.
5) What are the draw backs of genres?
People who dislike a particular genre of music and condemn other people for liking it.
Theory:
Andre Goodwin distinguished many features which saw music videos as a form:
- There is a relationship between the lyrics and the visuals, with the visuals illustrating, amplifying or contradicting the lyrics.
- There is a relationship between the music and the visuals, with the visuals illustrating, amplifying or contradicting the music.
- Genres are complex and diverse in terms of music video style and iconography
- Record companies will demand a lot of close-ups of the main artist or vocalist
- Voyeurism is present in many music videos, especially in the treatment of females, but also in terms of systems of looking. Some examples are screens within screens, cameras, mirrors, etc.
- there are likely to be intertextual references, either to other music videos or to films and TV texts, these provide further gratification and pleasure for the viewers/fans.
Questionnaire
1) What gender are you?
[ ] Male
[ ] Female
2) Age range? ( Please tick appropriately)
13-15 [ ]
16-18 [ ]
19-21 [ ]
22+ [ ]
3) What type of music genres do you listen to? (Multiple choices allowed)
R&B [ ]
Pop [ ]
Hip-Hop [ ]
Dance [ ]
Rock [ ]
Classical [ ]
Heavy [ ]
Metal [ ]
Other _________
4) What music TV channels do you watch?
TMF [ ]
MTV [ ]
Hits [ ]
Scuzz [ ]
MTV Classic [ ]
Smash hits [ ]
Vibe [ ]
Kerrang [ ]
The Box [ ]
Other ___________________________
4) What type of music video do you prefer?
Narrative Based [ ]
( A music video which tells a story)
Performance Based [ ]
(A music video that is based around a performance of the artist or group)
Concept Based [ ]
(A music video that is based on a theme or idea)
Combination of these styles [ ]
5) Does a good music video make you want to buy the track?
Yes [ ]
No [ ]
6) What type of music promotion appeals to you the most?
Adverts [ ]
TV Adverts [ ]
Billboards [ ]
Internet [ ]
Posters [ ]
Magazine [ ]
Radio commercials [ ]
7) What do you look for in a print based advert for a music group or artist?
________________________________________________
8) What do you look for in a DVD or CD cover?
______________________________________________
9) Do you enjoy music videos that stick to their usual conventions?
Yes [ ]
No [ ]
If so please state why _________________________