For the preliminary task in Miss Roses side of the course we have been asked to re compose a music video, our group chose this classic rap by Eminem. Part of the whole research and planning stage is actually looking at what goes into making these video and what some of the images may mean.
Image
In the opening scenes of the music video we see two different shots both describing the past and present versions of the same artist, Eminem (00.32-00.34). The audience are able to identify the present from the past given that his present self is positioned out side with a light illuminating his face. The colours of the past are dark grey, blacks and greens; connoting a grimy environment with very little positivity.
Symbol
This Illumination of the face gives the idea of an enlightened character, as oppose to the past version who is inside and submerged in a shroud of darkness. The darkness represents uncertainty and a negativity. Eminem's present self seems to be speaking directly to us and addressing us as an audience. This direct style of address creates a real connection with us and it also helps to further separate him from what we believe to be his past self, who seems to not pay the camera any attention.
Contextual meaning
I believe that the image and messages portrayed in the video is that you should never give up and give it your all when an opportunity arises. Eminem is a role model to alot of teenagers and these kind of messages to "cease the moment" and to "never give up" are very appealing to a target audience who may be feeling quite confused and emotionally drained due to the complexity of life at this point in their lives.
Editing
Throughout the song we see a lot of synchronized editing, the most prominent and most memorable of these moments would be the part in which Eminem shows his digit finger when he says "one shot" and also when the lyrics says "he keeps on forgetting" he points to his head. The uses of synchronized editing make the lyrics more memorable and they seem to take on a greater level of poignancy.
Sound
The sounds used are not altered and the vocals all come from the artists voice, this natural element of the song makes it seem quite honest as if what he is saying is more important than how what he is saying sounds.
Summary and Comparison of the Video
I like alot of Eminem's' videos as they are not conceptual and have a real sense of reality and grittiness to them. they do not mess around and the message they are trying to convey are very black and white. Other videos such as the one for the song "some one that I used to know" is alot more arty and has a greater level of conceptual meaning.
Watch that video Here:- Somebody that I used to know - GOTYE
If you agree or disagree with the ideas I have discussed in this post please don't hesitate to post a comment discussing your views at the bottom of this post...
