Monday 30 September 2013

Initial Ideas



This SlideShare consists of 3 original concepts that I created regarding the song I have chosen for my media text; Coldplay - The Scientist. It shows the different angles of which the song can be perceive and interpreted. I made the concepts both broad and narrow regarding the fact that the message can be applied to specific situations, although, they can also be identified with if an individual was not to have experienced a situation such as this within their lifetime; I feel as though revolving my music video around a concept such as this is likely to make it a lot more successful.

Programme used:
Microsoft Powerpoint
SlideShare (www.slideshare.net)

Friday 20 September 2013

Lyric Analysis


The first interpretation of my lyrics consists of potential interpretations of the lyrics and the different themes that they can be perceived in relation to. These are relationship struggles and loss. I also highlighted key words that can be used on my 'found images' storyboard. I also wrote down the timings of the lyrics to help me when creating my own video and highlighted the structure of the song in relation to verse, chorus and mid-break's.



The second interpretation of the lyrics were a lot more narrow due to the fact that I chose a particular theme and used this to interpret the lyrics and found key phrases that supported it. The theme I chose was loss and regrets and the different ways that it can be perceived within the song. This will help me when creating my own video as it enables me to pick out particular phrases and tweak them, ensuring it relates to the concept of my idea efficiently.

Technology used:
Scanner

Thursday 19 September 2013

Coldplay - The Scientist




The song I chose to base my media text around is Coldplay - The Scientist. The reason behind choosing this text is due to the fact that it revolves around my chosen genre; Pop Rock. I am wanting to make my own video with the intentions of revolving around the sentimental, un-materialistic values, I feel as though this song is perfect regarding the fact that it has a broad meaning and is open to interpretation; it can be perceived in a variety of different way which makes it effective.

Social media used:
YouTube

Wednesday 18 September 2013

Codes & Conventions



This Prezi shows the codes & conventions of a typical Pop Rock music video. It also shows elements of predominantly Pop and predominantly Rock conventions and how they are similar, and also the ways in which they differ. It also shows how both genres have merged together to create the genre of Pop Rock and how this has been influential regarding music videos of today.

Technology used:
Prezi - prezi.com

Tuesday 17 September 2013

Video Analyses 2



I devised this Prezi to adapt on my previous analysis of these 3 particular videos. I created the presentation to show more depth in relation to the four key elements: Mise En Scene, Editing, Sound and Cinematography.

Programme used:
Prezi - prezi.com

Video Analyses 1

I have chosen a selection of videos to help me gain inspiration for my own music video. Each video revolves around the same genre, this being that of alternative rock with slight hints of pop as a sub-genre.

The first video I chose to analyse was Passenger - Let Her Go. The reason behind this is due to the fact that I really enjoy the simplistic element of the text, it emphasises the effectiveness of the message and broadens the audiences understanding of the ideology that the artist is trying to portray.



The message behind this video is said to have two meanings, the first - according to Passenger himself- relates to a break up in a relationship and the struggle he had with letting 'her' go. In my opinion, the message of the video can be generalised in relation to the fact that the main understanding of the song relates to the idea of loss. This is why it will be so influential in the creation of my own music video as I want to focus on this aspect too. It is something that anyone and everyone can relate to from one perspective or another.

The second of the three videos I am going to analyse is Ed Sheeran - Lego House. The genre of this video is considered to be pop rock. This is similar to Passenger - Let Her Go in relation to the the fact that they each associated with rock vibes.

Cinematography:

In the first 10 seconds of the music video, the camera angles are majorly close ups. Each shot focuses on a very simplistic item which immediately creates a rapport with the audience regarding their understanding of the video; we establish that not only the visual images, but the song too is very simplistic - simple but effective.

Regarding camera movement, in various shots, it appears to be almost handheld which gives the audience a sense of the atmosphere within the video - it makes us feel included and compliments the sentimental value of the song; making it even more so effective.
Along with close up shots,medium shots are also used a lot within the video as it once again reinforces the concert narrative, it allows us to see the artist from the perspective of those at the concert, and the angle that they would perceive it.

Editing:

Throughout the full 4:15 video, there are 92 edits. This is particularly low in comparison to videos of other genres although, i feel as though it fits the message of this video well. It enables the viewer to gain an insight into the different aspects of the artists life through the varied edits. We are able to see backstage elements as well as public performances courtesy of the edits - this adds personal value to the video as we are invited to feel the artists emotions and almost help us identify with his struggle regarding narrative. 

Connotations / Audience:

The mise en scene within this video helps create particular connotations, for example, the dark lighting throughout the video helps the audience identify that this video is going to be deep regarding its meaning. We are able to understand that this is not a 'feel-good' song; it has meaning and also holds the potential to make individuals reflect on similar events that may have occurred in their own life.

The location of the song is incredibly simplistic. The use of the bare stage with the artist centered within it reinforces the fact that the focus is on him and the messages he is sending to the audience; without being majorly obvious. The twinkle of light on the stage set up also reinforces the effectiveness of the simplistic qualities; it also connotes the elements of hope within the song - he acknowledges that he has made mistakes and the twinkle of lighting suggests his hope for a second chance an allows us to identify that he has regrets regarding the situation.

The use of acoustic guitars within the video connote the idea of the song being stripped back and straight to the point; which is often the message that videos of this caliber intent to do and is shown clearly in this minimalistic performance. 

The audience for this particular song are likely to be those of any age but possibly, mainly males; the reason being is due to the fact that it says 'let her go' meaning that this is a song that most males can relate to, whereas, for women it may be more difficult. Although, the clear broadness of the song makes it easy for women to identify with the song from a different perspective; due to the effectiveness of it.

Ideology/Representation:

Regarding ideology, the message behind this video continues the representations portrayed throughout. This is shown through the simplistic construction of the video, once again. The artist is trying to represent himself as someone who isn't massively wealthy or smart; his love for something else overrides the materialistic values that a lot of music videos have, which once again makes the representations more effective as it not only reinforced through the ideological values as the narrative influences this too.

The artist, Passenger, is represented in a light which makes him appear as someone that is not necessarily materialistic; he is more concerned with the finer things in life; family, friends and loved ones; all shown in the video. 

Theorist:

In relation to theorists, Levi Strauss' theory of Binary Opposites could potentially apply to this particular song. The reason behind this is the fact that Strauss states that we understand texts from not only what we see, but from the opposites they reflect. I feel this applies to this song as we, the viewer, must understand the 'feel-good' vibes of a pop song to be able to appreciate the in depth, sentimental values of a narrative of a song in this caliber  Although, this theory could also be challenged regarding the fact that the person we believe to be the protagonist (Passenger) also acts in some ways as the antagonist due to the fact that he is the reason behind 'letting her go'. As, if he was not to let her go, and she had left on her own merit we would be able to establish binary opposites between the two, we would empathise with Passenger as he would be represented as the protagonist, whereas his partner would be classed as the antagonist; it can be viewed from both perspectives which both refute and support the theory.



The meaning of this song is somewhat similar to 'Let Her Go' regarding the fact that it portrays the image of a struggle. Although, it differs in relation to the fact that it doesn't only focus on one sort of pain; such as a relationship. It combines the pain of relationships, friendship and internal struggle into one. This is something which helps me gain inspiration from due to the fact that my video will also portray the struggle of the main character in quite a heart wrenching way. Also, the fact that this videos doesn't necessarily have a set theme to it, allows it to be open to interpretation regarding the fact that the audience can relate to it in whichever way they desire. Another similarity between the two videos is the fact that they each show some context regarding performances. Although, differ from the perspective of which they are shown.

Cinematography:

Within the first 10 second of the video, a lot of both medium and log shots are used. These are effective as it helps the audience establish both character roles and locations. The fact that it is not Ed Sheeran performing the song in the video, allows us to establish the originality of it. Long shots are used throughout the video to emphasise the obscenity of the video. For example, a long shot is shown to show Rupert Grint in a room with several lamps; the unusuality of this shot suggests that the video will continue with this theme. This video could also be considered to be simple but effective, although in a very different way to Passenger - Let Her Go. It has humorous values and the way that the camera is used.

Editing:

Regarding editing, this particular music video uses continuity editing in relation to the fact  that it portrays a form of cohesive narrative to the audience. A variety of straight cuts are used in this video to emphasise the linear sequence portrayed through the lyrics. Similarly to 'Let Her Go' the video edits to show backstage clips and shots of the live performance too; although, this is from a clearly different angle regarding the intentions of the main character. In this video we identify that the main character is very obsessive in relation to the artist performing; whereas 'Let Her Go' has clear, sentimental ideology. There are 106 cuts in this particular music video, which is similar to the video analysed above. To make the video seem more upbeat in comparison to 'Let Her Go' it cuts on the prominent beat; emphasisiing the rhythmic value of the song.

Connotations/Audience:

The connotations of the song are particularly contrasting through the use of lighting; this reflects the bitter sweet reality of the main characters lifestyle. The dark lighting portrays the depressive mood that the character is feeling at that particular point in time, and the brighter light allows us to infer that this is the hope that the main character has to fulfill his aspirations of meeting the main performer; Ed Sheeran. The audience could relate to this in a variety of ways, either through the same way as the main character - fantasising about meeting their favourite celebrity. Or, they could identify this song in a completely different way due to the fact that the visual images and song lyrics are contrasting in theirself. They do not reflect one another in a definite way; they are broad and open to interpretation which makes this song so effective as the audience can relate to it as they wish.

Regarding the location of the video, the long, establishing shots connote the ideas within Rupert Grint's characters mind. It suggests that his mind is so open to all things and once again, reinforces the idea of hope. The objects within it, such as boats on the river are just small elements within this big idea he has which is shown through the use of a large landscape. It also allows us to conclude that these are the different components that are required to ensure his master plan is successful.

The audience for this video are likely to be those around the teen ages, the reason behind this is due to the fact that teenagers are brought up in an era which revolves around technology and the internet, making them more likely to be inclined regarding the use of the internet; stereotypically making them the most popular audience for a song of this sort.

Ideology/Representation:

In relation to the way the main character is perceived, it is very unconventional in comparison to the majority of music videos we see from artists within this genre (pop rock). The reason behind this is the fact that Grint is shown as an incredibly obsessive individual with the fixation on a particular artist. This message could also be used as a way to mock the society of today regarding the similar role that fan girls would take regarding particular artists and bands.

Regarding the values and beliefs behind the song, it can be perceived in a variety of ways which makes it hard to narrow the definite message that it is trying to portray to the audience. It can be influential from both negative and positive perspectives.

Theories:

Ed Sheeran - Lego House refutes Michael Shores statement regarding the fact that he argues that music videos have 'classical storytelling motifs'. This is clearly rejected within this video as the narrative within it is incredibly unique. The outcome is unpredictable and the audience are left anticipating the ending. 

The third song I chose to use for my analyses is The Script - Nothing. The genre of this song is slight more 'poppy' in comparison to the other two, although, it still contains some rock elements which makes it relevant regarding my desired music video genre is pop/rock.



The meaning behind this song is particularly similar to those analysed above. It is once again focusing on the loss of someone and clearly shows the persons grief. The loss can be interpreted in various ways such as relating to relationships or it is possible that she may have died; it depends on the viewers interpretation. This is a perfect video to take inspiration from as i want to make 'loss' a clear theme throughout my video with simplistic elements that emphasise the sentimental value of this. I also want my video to be interpreted diversely as although it will have one main theme I would like it to show abstract qualities as I feel these are all elements which make an industry standard music video.

Cinematography:

In the first 10 seconds of the video, close up shots are used predominantly to portray emotions of the artist to the audience. This song is very emotional so shots of this caliber are important. The first shot of the video is a extreme long shot, this is used to establish the location; this is done as it is an unusual location so the audience are aware of this. Regarding camera handling, the movement of the camera is wobbling, and almost looks as though it is handheld; this clearly portrays the disoriented/drunk feeling within the artists mind. Long shots are used within this particular music video to reinforce the location; as this is a prominent element of the video.

In particular shots, the camera pans and tilts, this creates the idea that the audience are an onlooker within the group of people. We get to see the situation and how it unfolds in real time due to the camera being handled in this way.

Editing:

In relation to editing, standard, straight clips are used predominantly within the text. Although, fades are used at particular points in the video in an attempt to make the water effect appear more realistic.

There are a total of 149 edits in this particular text, towards the end of the video the edits begin to speed up, this potentially portrays the adrenaline racing through the artists body as the climax of the video is reached. It could also be interpreted in a way that would reflect the artists heartbeat, it is fact paced due to anticipation of the way the situation is to unfold. Each of these interpretations may not be accurate as they can be perceived in any way that the audience wish.


Connotations/Audience:

The connotations of this particular video are somewhat depressive, this is shown through the immediate dark room that we see the artist within. This automatically allows us to conclude that the narrative of the song is likely to be that with a deep meaning. The flow of alcohol shown at the beginning of the text also engages the audience through the suggestion that something dramatic is to occur as a result of this.

Regarding audience, as stated previously, the predominant audience of videos such as this are those in their teenage years due to the fact that they are more inclined in relation to the use of internet and are the target audience for music channels that play videos of this sort; which reinforces my main point. However, the audience are likely to be more female orientated due to the fact that the band are all male, although male fans are likely to be included too as these people may be who they aspire to be.

When the artist is underwater, it connotes the idea that he is engrossed in his aspirations. He dreamt of winning this girl back and he is now living the dream. The light shining above them and through the water is the reinforced hope, and almost innocence between the two characters as they are overwhelmed with happiness, this is juxtaposed through the dark light returning once again as he is pulled from the water; his feelings are once again reduced.

Ideology/Representation:

In relation to the ideology portrayed to the audience, the artist engages the audience in a way that almost allows them to empathise with him. This is not only shown through the visual images, but through the lyrical narrative also. It is almost contrasting through the character roles due to the fact that the character appears to be someone that is friend-orientated which suggests he has a lot of support behind him regarding situations of this sort. The fact that he seems so weak despite the amount of support he has around him goes against the stereotypical 'lad' connotations and shows that he really does care about the girl in question; this could be contrasted with today's society in relation to stereotypes.

The artist is also thoroughly upset throughout the video which also represents women in the negative light regarding the fact that the woman is responsible for the pain he is going to, possibly representing her in a light that suggests she is heartless.

Theories:

The Script's Nothing could potentially relate to Tessa Perkins theory regarding Stereotypes. The reason behind this is due to the fact that the main character in this media text does not conform to the typical stereotypes that we would expect to see in a 25-30 year old male. Tessa States that 'stereotypes are hard to change' although if men took note of the actions that the main character took it could potentially change the way they are perceived in society regarding stereotypes.

Social media used:
YouTube