In this task I am going to be analysing a music video from a previous student, from the list of videos I was given I have decided to analyse ‘Bruises’ originally by Lewis Capaldi. In doing this it will allow me to understand what works and doesn’t work when creating a music video, furthermore it will also ideas and techniques I can use when coming to create my own music video.

Appropriate to task: 

Yes I think that the music video does follow iconic conventions of a traditional music video. The use of the transitions between shots and the distorted effect is very good. The use of linking the narrative with the performance was a good choice and shows us the story from both sides. The actors are well coordinated and the shots they have used such as his hand when he is playing the piano is very well presented and shows the typical conventions of a music video.

Variety of shot distances:

The music video tends to only use mid shots and above waist, however doesn’t include a many close ups which I think would have topped this as it truly shows emotion. Although the shot of just the female actors feet and legs was very creative and shows a sense of individuality. The use of the shot where the piano cuts of his body and leaves you his head is very good and craetes a feeling of isolation.

Mise-en-scene:

The use of costume used throughout the video is very subtle, however works very well. The use of the white shows a sense of purity and redemption, it also shows that the two actors have a metaphorical bond. Location is very interesting and is set in a grimy, old delapordated green house, this relates to his pain and hurt he’s feeling. the lighting is very high key and minimalises the use of shadows, this creates a sense of an abstract place. the make-up and hair on the female actor is plain and ordinary, showing that a music video doesn’t need a lot to make it stand out.

Editing For Meaning: 

The editing used throughout this video is quite slow and moderated and jump cuts between shots to show disorientation. The use of the hallucination slows down the video completely and shows his neurotic persona. Although at the start the video starts with quick edits to show the passing of time.

In my opinion I would have given this video full marks, the reason behind this is that it is visually pleasing top the audience, it also uses clear use of mise en scene and camera shots to reflect the inner emotions of the characters.

This will benefit my music video as I now have an inkling into how music videos work in order to achieve full marks, moreover it has shown me how little budgets can go a long way and that I don’t the simplest of ideas can be effective