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.