6). "Let Forever Be" (1999), The Chemical Brothers / directed by Michel Gondry
If Spike Jonze brought a certain credibility to music videos, Michel Gondry took it a step further. Arguably the most sought-after music video director, Gondry has brought in a level artistry that was not seen prior. His videos are almost always built around repetition, but done from a different perspective each time. "Let Forever Be" takes the repetitiveness of modern life and mixes it with surreal experiences and dance numbers. The two worlds - one digital, one film - collide repeatedly. Gondry helped transform music videos not just into an art form - but into an experience.
5). "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" (2002), the White Stripes / directed by Michel Gondry
Contrary to other Gondry videos, "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" thrives on minimalism. The video still plays with surrealism and repetition, but in a much simpler fashion. Jack White returns home to find the place trashed - a metaphor for what appears to be a failing relationship. As he walks from room-to-room, moments from the past in the same room are projected. The projections build and crash into one-another, as we see the relationship dissolve and the actions which ultimately left the house in its present condition.
4). "Rabbit in Your Headlights" (1998), U.N.K.L.E. / directed by Jonathan Glazer
Glazer's highly disturbing video was restricted to the midnight hours of music television. Without the musicians present, the video focuses on a man walking down the middle of a busy street tunnel. The amount of hits he takes from cars were the center of the ban, and make it almost an unwatchable experience.
::Previously::
•9-7
•12-10
•15-13
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4 comments:
I love Let Forever Be and I had no idea who Michel Gondry was then.
Incredible list.
I think that was the first one I saw from him, too. As you may have noticed - we are now entering the Michel Gondry portion of the countdown.
Chemicals videos are usually good, but that one is the best.
Talking of dance acts, I'm wondering if any videos by Basement Jaxx or The Avalanches are gonna make it to your list.
I actually haven't seen their videos - probably because mtv is crap. I like them both - especially the Avalanches - so I will have to try and find them on the internet.
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