For this homework, I have chosen to analyse the video for the music video of the song 'Roses', by Outkast.
Analysis of key features:
- Caroline's character from the song is introduced and later a rose is given to her during the chorus about roses.
The play concept is used to match imagery to lyrics, such as the spaceship coming down for the line 'down to Mars'.
The video is cut in time to the music. - Performance of the play showcases the artist's dancing talent.
Interest is maintained with the high school story. - The lip sync is maintained till the last minute when it degrades to drive the narrative.
- Andre 3000's high school character is related to his stage name by the yearbook.
- There is singing and dancing on stage almost throughout, which showcases his talent.
- High concept settings and interesting narratives keep the audience engaged throughout the video.
- The high school concept is highly stylised.
- Video is moved on by performance developping into a high school brawl to prevent the audience from getting bored.
- There are references to the album the song was released on as well as the beginning which features an excerpt of another song from the album and yearbook photo caption links the video persona with the artist.
- Use of CUs and yearbook photos showcase the performers.
- Opposition is presented between the gangs, who represent the band members and album.
- Although it has strong narrative aspects, it cuts discontinuously in several places, for example the cut from the girls to the cars to the stage near the beginning.
- There is a clip where the Wicked Witch of the West from the Wizard of Oz is referenced.
The typical American high school concept is recognisable to audience.
References to the artist's own work are present. - The story narrates the lyrics as well as representing the wider message of the song about overvaluing appearances whilst incorporating performance with the stage.
- Provokes audience to think as well as being humorous and entertaining.
