Blog Entry #2: A Look at Music Videos

Firework By Katy Perry

Initial Reaction:
My initial reaction was suprised and more importantly, amazed. This is not the typical music video the artist Katy Perry is known to be in. Katy Perry's music videos tend to be more upbeat, fun, colourful, revealing, unrealistic and rather strange. However, what is in common with this video and her other ones is that she kept it unique and original. Those two words seem to tie in with the message of this song and video which is it is okay to be different, it is okay to be who you are and don't be afraid to show that off to the world. This video and song amazes me so much because of the message, meaning, and hope it gives - hope in that maybe one day we'll all learn to accept one another for who we are, including ourselves and one day being different we'll be seen as what it should be; which is that being different seperates us into individuals who are all unique, bright, talented, special, wonderful, beautiful people who can never be replaced. I absolutely love this video and song as it also gives off a good vibe and positive energy.

Analysis and interpretation:
There are many principles of media art used here but the one that stood out to me the most was the contrast. This was shown through the dark scenes and fireworks sparking out of the people. However, I also think this was shown through the characters and scenerios of this video. The characters who are left out or feel like they need to let out what's inside them v.s the people around them enjoying their own lives show contrast as well. Another principal of media used in this video is emphasis. There was much emphasis on the characters through the fireworks exploding out of them when they were finally breaking through and not being afraid to show who they really are. I think Katy Perry created this video to help people visualize the theme and highlight the lyrics in her song. The theme is that people have many differences and that it is okay to be ourselves. We are all important and have something to offer. No one should ever feel left out or unimportant. I feel the theme is aligned with Gospel Values such as Community(acceptance), Hope, Courage (perseverance) and Love (caring, respect).

Consideration of Cultural Context:
I think Katy Perry is someone who wants to stand out and be different just like her husband. This song and video may have been influenced by her belief and she wants everyone to know that it's okay to be different and to celebrate this. There is a part in the video with a boy showing his feelings to another boy. The issue with bullying of homosexual teens in school has been prominent in the news in the last year and this may have influenced the director to include this idea in the video.

Expression of aesthetic judgement:
The storyline, lyrics and acting in the video all work together to tell a story around the theme of the song. The special effects with the use of fireworks coming out of people's bodies exaggerate the point that we all have something special to offer, that we all have a spark in us. The performance, choreography and music all work well together to create an upbeat, inspiring video.

Ongoing Reflection:
I think this music video has influenced my reception of the song by enhanciong the song more and delvering a clear and full message as to what this song is about.