Here’s some of my video research. I think it’s important to categorize them in the things that set them apart. Things done exquisitely well. Things that resonate. I’ll add to this list as I continue my journey into this music video culture, rich with references and stimuli.

Monologue

Eurythmics – Beethoven (I Love To Listen To) – YouTube.

Released: 1987
Director: Sophie Muller
The surreal video, which was one of a series made for every song on the ‘Savage’ album, sees Lennox play an oppressed housewife who breaks down, transforming herself into a Marilyn Monroe-esque vixen.
Best bit: Annie Lennox’s opening monologue.

Juxtaposition

Symmetry on Vimeo

Released: 2012
Director: Everynone
Clips side by side of contrasting natures. A sun vs. a light bulb, a newborn crying vs. an old dying man.
Best bit: When the twins switch sides.

PASS THIS ON – YouTube.

Released: 2003
Director: Johan Renck
Featuring female impersonator Rickard Engfors lip-sinking to the track as the entertainment at the annual meeting of a local Swedish football club, this mesmerizing video is tense, beautiful and haunting.
Best bit: Band member Olof Dreijer’s dance moves. <the glamour and strangeness of the female impersonator clashes with the setting>

Using Materials Creatively

The Chemical Brothers – Let Forever Be – YouTube.

Director: Michel Gondry

Taking inspiration from Ray Davies’ ‘Starmaker’, the video follows a girl as she dreams and has nightmares. The low-budget, psychedelic special effects have made the video one of the band’s best known.

Best bit: The shot with the classic mirror trick in the bathroom. <my favorite part: from 3:10-3:25)>

via 100 Greatest Music Videos | NME.COM.

Essays On Reality, Chapter 1 on Vimeo. (Also amazing graphic design.)

Connecting Humanity Through Film

LAUGHS! on Vimeo

Bright Eyes “First Day Of My Life” – YouTube.

‘100’ (from 0 to 100 years in 150 seconds) – YouTube.

Expressive Dancing

The xx – Islands – YouTube.