Analyses of previous students work

Justin Timberlake – Losing my Way

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1i-5zHSO1Is&feature=related

The location of the music video is set in a natural environment which connotes natural feelings between the two characters. This links to the name of the song ‘losing my way’ which represents a lot of emotions. Therefore, the natural environment creates a sense of emotion between the name of the song, the location and the characters. Also, the environment is similar to how Justin Timberlake has in his music videos which shows the students have done research on their artist.

The main camera shots that have been used in this music video are, close ups, mid shots, two shots and long shots. These all have different effects, the long shots have been used to show the location and background, for example the park. Also, the long shots show juxtaposition between the environment and the character. The mise-en scene connotes something beautiful and scenic whereas the storyline of the song suggests pain, hurt and distress. The two-shots show the emotions and connection between the two characters, this creates a relationship between the audience and the characters. The two shots have a similar effect to close ups because they show the emotions and expressions of the characters. For example, the close up shots used during the chorus reflects his loss of emotional control. The mid shots help to show the costumes alongside the dance moves and expressions of the character. The character has kept his costume very similar to how Justin dresses with keeping it smart but casual. This shows how his life is ordinary and his feelings are natural.

The editing techniques used in this music are effective in many reasons. For example the straight cuts show the sudden change of scene which can also be used to represent the sudden change of feelings. The editing techniques have been kept quite similar because of the genre of the song. The main other editing techniques used is the negative and sepia effect. This works well with the lighting because they both reflect a dark and negative setting.

Lastly, the lighting of the music video has been kept quite dark and dull to show the break down of the relationship. Also, the lighting helps to set the mise-en scene and mood so the dark lighting reflects an upset and down mood. Overall, this works well with showing the audience the storyline, the feelings and the genre.