Here is my genre research. my group has chosen Pop for our music video. We will now research various media texts from within this genre so that we can understand the codes and conventions
Typical Genre Conventions
here are some images of those conventions.
- we can't be friends - Ariana Grande (2024)
- Maps - Maroon 5 (2014)
- party 4 U - Charli Xcx (2020)
- beauty & a beat - Justin Bieber ft. Nicki Minaj (2012)
- Everything has changed - Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran (2013)
- The one that got away - Katy Perry (2012)
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we can’t be friendsAriana Grande2024
target audience
The target audience is mainly young adults aged 16–25, especially fans of pop and R&B who enjoy emotional storytelling and cinematic visuals. It appeals to people who have experienced heartbreak or emotional loss and connect with songs about love, memory, and healing.
The video also strongly appeals to fans of the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” since Ariana’s video directly references the storyline and visuals like the memory erasing clinic, the emotional flashbacks, and the theme of wanting to forget love. the viewers who know the movie will recognize the deeper meaning and symbolism behind these elements which would add another emotional layer.
It also targets Ariana Grande’s loyal fanbase, who often follow her artistic growth and personal themes especially the fans that has been long following her life and relationship with her now ex husband (who the song was written about) because they wan’t to know what caused the split of their marriage from her pov. These fans also appreciate her shift from typical pop visuals to something more mature and narrative driven. The video’s soft aesthetic, emotional lyrics, and symbolic storytelling appeal to an audience that values her vulnerability and also her cinematography.
target audience
The target audience is mainly young adults aged 16–25, especially fans of pop and R&B who enjoy emotional storytelling and cinematic visuals. It appeals to people who have experienced heartbreak or emotional loss and connect with songs about love, memory, and healing.
The video also strongly appeals to fans of the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” since Ariana’s video directly references the storyline and visuals like the memory erasing clinic, the emotional flashbacks, and the theme of wanting to forget love. the viewers who know the movie will recognize the deeper meaning and symbolism behind these elements which would add another emotional layer.
It also targets Ariana Grande’s loyal fanbase, who often follow her artistic growth and personal themes especially the fans that has been long following her life and relationship with her now ex husband (who the song was written about) because they wan’t to know what caused the split of their marriage from her pov. These fans also appreciate her shift from typical pop visuals to something more mature and narrative driven. The video’s soft aesthetic, emotional lyrics, and symbolic storytelling appeal to an audience that values her vulnerability and also her cinematography.
Representation
The representation of femininity in this video is emotional but not weak she is shown as vulnerable yet independent, which challenges the stereotypical representation of women in pop music videos as overly sexualized or dependent on male attention. Her natural makeup, simple white costume reflect a more modern and empowering ideology of womanhood. There’s also a representation of emotional repression and mental health, as the story is the idea of trying to forget painful memories instead of processing them. The mise-en-scene of the sterile, futuristic clinic and the use of white lighting create a cold, emotionless atmosphere, which represents how society often pressures people to “move on” quickly rather than express vulnerability.
also it represents both an individual experience of heartbreak and the social group of young women dealing with emotional recovery and self identity. The video constructs her as someone trying to erase the pain of a failed relationship through the narrative device of a memory-erasing clinic, inspired by the film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. This connection represents a shared cultural understanding of love and loss which shows how heartbreak is a universal experience.
Camera
There are many close-up shots of her face, which focus on her expressions and let the audience see her sadness and vulnerability. This is typical in pop music videos because it keeps attention on the artist and builds a personal connection with the viewer. During the flashback scenes, medium shots and tracking shots are used to show movement and make the moments feel natural, almost like real memories. These shots often feel handheld or slightly unsteady, which connotes warmth and nostalgia, as if we’re watching her past through her own eyes. In contrast, the wide shots in the clinic scenes are very still and symmetrical, creating a cold, distant feeling that matches the emotionless environment. The contrast between the moving shots in the memories and the static framing in the clinic visually represents the difference between feeling alive in love and feeling numb after losing it. High-angle shots were also used to make Ariana look small and fragile, suggesting she’s powerless in the situation, while over-the-shoulder shots let us see things from her point of view.
sound
The sound in the video matches the story and emotions very well. The soft, emotional melody reflects heartbreak and regret, which fits the theme of lost love in the video and The lyrics, about trying to move on from a past relationship, connect directly with the visuals of flashbacks and memories, making the story easier to follow
edit
Cross-cutting between the clinic and the flashbacks shows her internal conflict which is trying to forget but still holding on. Soft transitions (like fades and blurs) mimic the way memories dissolve over time.The pacing is slow , reflecting emotional heaviness rather than action. Color grading separates memory (warm tones) and reality (cool tones).
The final fade-out as she leaves the clinic represents her uncertain future she’s “forgotten,” but not completely healed.
conventions subverted
Instead of featuring performance scenes or choreography, the video focuses entirely on narrative and acting, putting the story at the center. It avoids the typical pop “glamour,” with no flashy outfits, big dance numbers, or product placements. The story has a melancholic, open-ended tone, which is unusual for pop music videos that often finish on a happy or confident note. Overall, it feels more like a short psychological film than a commercial music video, emphasizing storytelling over the artist’s star image.
what do you like/dislike?
I really like this music video because it’s based on my favorite movie, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. I love how it explores heartbreak, regret, and memories, just like the film, and it’s the kind of storytelling I want to include in my own music video project. What I dislike is that people who haven’t seen Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind might not fully understand or appreciate the references and emotional depth in the video, which could make parts of the story confusing for them.
MapsMaroon 52014
target audience
The music video primarily targets teenagers and young adults aged 15–25, with a slight lean towards female viewers due to the romantic themes and Adam Levine’s celebrity appeal. The audience is likely to have an interest in mainstream pop-rock music and cinematic storytelling. It particularly appeals to viewers who can relate to the theme of regret and realizing the value of someone only after it’s too late, as shown by Adam Levine’s character cheating and then desperately regretting it after the girlfriend has died. This makes the video emotionally engaging for audiences who are reflective about relationships, breakups, or personal mistakes.
Representation
The video represents romantic relationships, grief, and male accountability, showing how Adam Levine’s character experiences the emotional consequences of his past mistakes. The female character’s death shows her as vulnerable, and showing traditional gendered representation of women as passive and in need of protection, while he is active and heroic in his desperate search and regret. The narrative also represents universal themes of loss and remorse which highlights social and emotional experiences many young adults can relate to, such as heartbreak, guilt, and the realization of what is truly valuable in a relationship. Through facial expressions, body language, and narrative action.
target audience
The music video primarily targets teenagers and young adults aged 15–25, with a slight lean towards female viewers due to the romantic themes and Adam Levine’s celebrity appeal. The audience is likely to have an interest in mainstream pop-rock music and cinematic storytelling. It particularly appeals to viewers who can relate to the theme of regret and realizing the value of someone only after it’s too late, as shown by Adam Levine’s character cheating and then desperately regretting it after the girlfriend has died. This makes the video emotionally engaging for audiences who are reflective about relationships, breakups, or personal mistakes.
Representation
The video represents romantic relationships, grief, and male accountability, showing how Adam Levine’s character experiences the emotional consequences of his past mistakes. The female character’s death shows her as vulnerable, and showing traditional gendered representation of women as passive and in need of protection, while he is active and heroic in his desperate search and regret. The narrative also represents universal themes of loss and remorse which highlights social and emotional experiences many young adults can relate to, such as heartbreak, guilt, and the realization of what is truly valuable in a relationship. Through facial expressions, body language, and narrative action.
Camera
Close-ups focus on Adam Levine’s face showcasing his regret, guilt, and determination. Medium shots show his movement through the city, helping the audience follow the action. Tracking shots follow him as he runs, creating a sense of urgency and involvement. Wide shots establish the urban setting and show his isolation, while low-angle shots make him appear determined and heroic.
Mise-en-scene
The urban city streets at night, combined with rain and neon lights, give the video a dramatic and tense atmosphere. In contrast, the party scenes use brighter lighting, crowded spaces, and energetic settings to show a lively, social side of the characters’ lives, reflecting the distraction and ignorantness before the accident. Adam Levine and the female character wear casual, modern clothing, making them relatable, while props like cars, street signs, and party decorations emphasize both the journey and the social world they inhabit. The combination of all these help show the contrast between carefree moments and emotional tension.
sound
the sound is Diegetic because you can hear footsteps, cars, and party noise, which adds realism and help the audience feel immersed in the urban setting. it’s mixed with the actual song maps playing. the lyrics matches the music video in a way but it doesnt feel like it because its the man singing it when it should be the woman because the storyline is that the woman’s the one being betrayed.
edit
Quick cuts during the running and chase sequences create a sense of urgency and excitement, reflecting Adam Levine’s desperation. In contrast, slower cuts and longer shots during close-ups highlight emotional moments, allowing the audience to focus on his regret and grief. Parallel editing is used to show Adam searching through the city while intercutting with scenes of the female character in different locations, building suspense and connecting their experiences. The editing rhythm also matches the tempo of the song.
conventions conformed
The video follows several typical pop music video conventions. It has a clear narrative storyline about love, loss, and regret, and includes performance elements, showing Adam Levine singing integrated into the story. The urban nighttime setting, contemporary clothing, and party scenes are also common in pop and pop-rock music videos, appealing to the target audience
conventions subverted
the video subverts conventions by making it look like a thriller chase sequences and placing the female character in real danger, which is less common in standard pop videos. It also emphasizes narrative tension and suspense over dance or purely performance-focused sequences, blending romance and action to create a more cinematic experience
what do you like/dislike?
I really liked the cinematic feel of the video, especially how the party scenes contrast with the tense chase through the city t keeps things exciting and interesting. On the other hand, I didn’t like that the female character not having justice she deserves.
Party 4 UCharli XCX2020
target audience
young adults aged 16–30, especially those active on platforms like TikTok. The song's themes of unrequited love and emotional vulnerability relates to teenagers especially in this modern age of “hook-up culture” “situationship” etc in Gen z.
Representation
The video mainly represents the Gen Z social group thats focusing on their experiences with modern relationships and hookup culture. It shows the emotional side of what it’s like to want real connection in a time where love feels temporary or performative. The social issue being represented is how social media and modern dating culture make people feel lonely and unfulfilled in casual relaionships even when they seem confident or popular. her character reflects the individual who gives too much in a relationship and ends up feeling ignored, which connects to how many young people feel in these times.
Camera
Close up shots is seen throughout the video when Charli is sitting in the car and singing directly to the camera. this captures her sadness and frustration, letting the audience see her emotions up close and making the performance feel personal. Wide shots is seen in the desert scenes near the end, where she’s walking alone in an open space. The wide frame makes her look small and distant, representing isolation and emptiness after everything that happened. Low angle shots used at the end when she stands in front of the burning billboard. The camera looks up at her, making her appear more powerful and showing how she’s taken back control of herself. Tracking shots used when she walks away from the car and later when she moves toward the billboard before setting it on fire. This showcases her movement and symbolize her emotional journey from heartbreak to getting herself back again.
Mise-en-scene
The mise-en-scene that really stands out in Party 4 U is the contrast between the dark, messy party and the bright, empty desert. The party scene, with flashing lights and red cups, feels like something you’d see in a typical pop video, but instead of looking fun, it feels isolated and sad which is not typical in the pop genre. Then the desert scene opposes that. it’s quiet and open, showing how she’s trying to escape all the fake party energy. Her polka dot dress pops against the desert background, keeping that pop star look that converts with the pop genre but also showing how out of place she feels.
sound
The sound in Party 4 U matches the lyrics really well, even though the visuals seem really abstract. The non-diegetic music is slow and emotional, which creates a dreamy atmosphere that reflects the sadness and longing in the lyrics about love and distance. Her auto tuned vocals give a futuristic pop style, but the emotion in her voice still feels raw. while the video isn’t a literal match to the lyrics, it still connects emotionally and visually to the same themes of love, emptiness, and regret.
edit
The editing in Party 4 u uses slow pacing and long takes to create a calm but emotional feeling. The video moves smoothly between the party and desert scenes, almost like flashbacks or memories, which gives it a dreamlike state of mind feeling. The cuts match the rhythm of the song, keeping it connected to pop style, but the slow pace goes against the usual fast, energetic editing in pop videos. This makes the video feel more emotional and personal, that focuses on her state of mind instead of performance or dance like usual conventions of pop genre.
conventions conformed
conventions conformed to includes performance shots of Charli xcx singing directly to the camera which is something often seen in pop videos and her costume and overall style fit the pop image too (her polka-dot dress). The use of color and lighting also follows pop conventions which keeps the visuals eye catching and focused on the artist. Even though the tone is softer, it is still centered on Charli as the main star, which is typical for pop genre mvs.
conventions subverted
the music video also breaks several pop genre conventions. There’s no choreography or group performance, and the pacing is much slower than most upbeat pop videos. Instead of showing luxury, energy, or flashy outfits, it focuses on loneliness and self-reflection. it feels more personal and experimental because of the quiet, minimal setting which shows this music video as more emotional and a different side of pop. it does not follow a narrative storyline either but more towards conceptional.
what do you like/dislike?
I really liked how Party 4 U didn’t follow a clear storyline because it lets the audience interpret it in their own way and Since there’s no clear narrative, people can connect the visuals and lyrics to their own experiences or emotions, which makes it feel more personal. I also liked how the video used simple but powerful visuals to show emotion instead of using flashy effects or dance scenes because i feel that is too basic.The only thing I didn’t like was how slow it felt at times, but I think that’s meant to make the audience reflect rather than just watch passively.
Beauty & a BeatJustin Bieber ft. Nicki Minaj2012
target audience
The target audience for Beauty and a Beat is mainly teenagers and young adults, around 13–21 years old, who enjoy upbeat pop and dance music. The mv also appeals to both male and female audiences, especially fans of Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj, who were both huge pop icons at the time. It connects to people who like the party lifestyle, social media, and fun visuals. the bright colours and pool party appeal to a more youthful audience that like having fun and living in the moment. also justin bieber fangirls because in this mv he was seen as a teen idol and was every teenage girls celebrity crush
target audience
The target audience for Beauty and a Beat is mainly teenagers and young adults, around 13–21 years old, who enjoy upbeat pop and dance music. The mv also appeals to both male and female audiences, especially fans of Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj, who were both huge pop icons at the time. It connects to people who like the party lifestyle, social media, and fun visuals. the bright colours and pool party appeal to a more youthful audience that like having fun and living in the moment. also justin bieber fangirls because in this mv he was seen as a teen idol and was every teenage girls celebrity crush
representations
Beauty and a Beat represents youth culture in a way that perfectly fits the pop genre, showing energy, fun, and confidence. The pool party setting, bright colors, and playful atmosphere all reflect the idea of young people living freely and enjoying life which is something often seen in pop music videos. Justin Bieber is shown as the ideal pop idol, confident, attractive, and surrounded by fans/models which connects to how pop music often sells the idea of being fun and desirable. Nicki Minaj brings her usual bold and “baddie” atitude , which adds that mix of empowerment and glamour that’s common in pop. they make the pop world look exciting like the kind of life everyone wants to have.
camera
The handheld-vlog style filming makes it feel like the audience is part of the party, which connects to fans who like the idea of being close to their favorite celebrity and living that fun, social media lifestyle which fits the fun and social vibe of the pop genre. There are also lots of close-ups of justin biebers face and performance, highlighting his charm and pop idol image, while wide shots show the huge, chaotic pool party around him. The camera movement is fast and lively, matching the beat of the song and keeping the fun and excitement throughout the video.
mise-en-scene
The mise-en-scene in Beauty and a Beat shows the fun, “over the top” party lifestyle that pop music often celebrates. The pool party setting, with bright colors, lights, and crowds of people dancing, creates a sense of energy and freedom. Everyone’s wearing casual, summer clothes, which makes it feel young and relatable, while Justin stands out with his stylish look that fits his pop-star image. Nicki Minaj’s bold outfit and makeup add a glamorous touch that fits the pop genre. The whole setting looks fun and chaotic, but it’s also controlled in a way that keeps Justin and Nicki as the focus to showcase their lifestyle.
sound
The sound and visuals in the mv match really well. The non-diegetic pop/dance track is upbeat and full of energy, and the video reflects that with a fun pool party and fast camera movements. The lyrics talk about having a good time and living in the moment , “we’re gonna party like it’s 3012 tonight” which perfectly fits the visuals of people dancing and celebrating. The electronic beat and catchy melody make the whole thing feel exciting and carefree, just like the message of the song. Even though it’s clearly staged,it doesn’t feellike it when you’re watching it while listening to the song because everyone is just having a great time and it makes the audience feel like they’re actually part of the party.
edit
fast-paced and energetic, which matches the upbeat rhythm of the song. The video uses quick cuts between shots of Justin, Nicki, and the crowd to keep up with the tempo. The editing sometimes syncs with the beat, especially during the drop, which is a common convention in pop and dance videos. There are also a few longer handheld shots that make it look like the footage is being filmed in one continuous take, adding to the “home video” or social media feel. The fast editing keeps the energy of the song and helps sell the idea of a wild, unforgettable party which is exactly what the song is about.
conventions conformed
The Mv follows a lot of typical pop music video conventions. It’s mainly a performance-based video, with Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj performing directly to the camera while surrounded by dancers. The party scene set around a swimming pool which gives off a fun, carefree summer vibe matching the pop genre’s focus on fun and escapism. Even the storytelling opening at the beginning showing the “leaked footage” hooks the audience before it jumps straight into the music, which keeps it entertaining and fits mainstream pop videos.
conventions subverted
the mv subverts conventions. Instead of looking professional / high quality and staged, the video is made to look like it’s filmed on a handheld camera, almost like Justin recorded it himself. That makes it feel more personal and fun, like we’re watching a real party instead of a planned music video. The fake “leaked video” idea at the start also makes it seem more real and different from the overly perfect style of pop genre. This gives the video a mix of casual and glamorous energy that makes it stand out from other pop videos.
why do you like/ dislike it?
I really liked how Beauty and a Beat used a handheld camera style, which is very uncommon for pop videos. Most pop videos are super polished and staged, but this made the party feel real and personal and like we were actually there. The video also feels like a celebration and shows the energy of youth culture. this is one of my favorite music videos of all time because its very fun and different from most pop genre mvs. i didn't like how the mv is set during night time because there would be so much potential during day time it would feel more like summer. Overall, analyzing this video helped me see how the technical elements can create a mv that is immersive, while still showing the artist’s personality.
Everything has changedTaylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran2013
target audience
Everything Has Changed targets teenage girls aged 13–19 who enjoy romantic pop music and follow Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. It also appeals to young adults up to around 25 who like emotional love songs and storytelling in music. also Fans who are interested in first love, friendship, and nostalgic feelings since the video focuses on a sweet, innocent romance. The school and childhood settings, along with the gentle acoustic melody, make it appealing to audiences who enjoy sentimental and heartfelt narratives rather than fast-paced, party-focused music videos.
target audience
Everything Has Changed targets teenage girls aged 13–19 who enjoy romantic pop music and follow Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. It also appeals to young adults up to around 25 who like emotional love songs and storytelling in music. also Fans who are interested in first love, friendship, and nostalgic feelings since the video focuses on a sweet, innocent romance. The school and childhood settings, along with the gentle acoustic melody, make it appealing to audiences who enjoy sentimental and heartfelt narratives rather than fast-paced, party-focused music videos.
representations
Everything Has Changed represents young love and friendship through the experiences of two teenagers getting to know each other. It focuses on the social group of school teens which shows their emotions, curiosity, and innocence as they explore a new relationship. The video also touches on universal themes of growing up and discovering feelings which many viewers can relate to. Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran themselves are represented as approachable, sincere, and emotionally expressive pop stars, making them easy for fans to connect with.
camera
There are lots of close-ups on the kids’ faces, which showcases their curiosity, excitement, and awkwardness as they explore each other’s world. Medium and wide shots show the school and playground settings, giving context and making the story feel relatable to the audience. The video also uses some tracking shots to follow the kids as they run around and interact, which keeps the visuals playful/ heartfelt. Overall, the camera focuses on intimacy and emotion rather than flashy angles, making the audience feel connected to the characters and the storyline.
mise-en-scene
The mise-en-scène in Everything Has Changed really highlights the innocence and curiosity of young love. The school, playground, and park settings reflect everyday spaces where real connections happen, making it relatable and nostalgic. there are Small details, like the kids drawing with markers on their faces emphasize their childlike innocence and playful/silly side while later scenes where they tattoo each other show a slightly rebellious exploration of identity. The warm yellow lighting/colour grading creates a nostalgic, cozy feeling like “awe”.
sound
The lyrics talk about noticing and connecting with someone new, and the video shows exactly that through the kids exploring each other’s world. The song is non-diegetic, with, melodic vocals creating a gentle, heartfelt atmosphere that reflects the sweetness of young love.
edit
It uses long takes and cross-cuts between different playful scenes, like the kids dancing in the gym under the stars on the ceiling and hanging out inside their forts and huts, allowing the audience to focus on their interactions and emotions. The slow pacing matches the calm rhythm of the song, giving the video a reflective, heartfelt feel rather than a rushed one. Unlike fast, flashy pop editing, this style emphasizes on the genuine connection between the kids and how they both found eachother. helping viewers experience the innocence and excitement of young love.
conventions conformed
The video follows pop music video conventions through its clear narrative storytelling, showing young children forming friendships and discovering each other, reflecting the song’s theme of connection and change. The video uses everyday, relatable settings like classrooms, playgrounds, and homes , Pop videos often use relatable or recognizable locations to connect with the audience, especially younger viewers.
conventions subverted
The video subverts typical pop conventions by focusing entirely on children acting out the story instead of the artists performing or lip-syncing. There are no glamorous outfits, staged performances, dancing or flashy choreography. instead, the narrative of the music video relies on realistic, everyday interactions to convey the emotion. This gives the video a more authentic, grounded feel compared to the usual pop music video style. the colours are really not extravagant aswell its mostly very soft but still colourful. its not popping too much its just very sweet and simple which subverts usal pop genre music video conventions.
why do you like/ dislike it?
I really love how this music video isn’t basic like usual pop music videos. it tells such a beautiful and touching story. Every time I watch it, I feel so in awe and heartwarmed. listening to the song while watching the story makes me feel warm, loving, and peaceful. It’s simple, but it has a way of making you feel emotional in a way. The only thing I dislike is that Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran barely appear.
The one that got awayKaty Perry2012
target audience
The music video mainly targets teenagers and young adults, ages 15–25, of all genders, who enjoy emotional pop ballads about love, heartbreak, and nostalgia. Fans of Katy Perry and audiences that connect with dramatic love stories, life choices, and “what if” scenarios are especially drawn to this video. The video also appeals to people who enjoy cinematic, narrative story telling music videos rather than just performance based ones. and katy perry is known for having narrative cinematic music videos rather than performance based.
representations
I think that the video represents people who has experienced lost love, regret, and nostalgia, its following a woman as she reflects on her first romance. Their relationship ended after a fight, and although he later regretted leaving her, he tragically died in an accident. Through a series of flashbacks, the video shows their happiest moments together, the heartbreak of their separation, and the way those memories continue to shape her emotions decades later. It captures the universal experience of love and loss and the grief and reflection, and the ache of remembering someone who will never return.
camera
Tracking Shots, The camera follows characters through various settings, such as the parties showcasing them having fun and how in love they were at that moment in time. lastly, over-the-shoulder when the young couple is painting together or looking at the wedding veil, the camera peeks over the shoulder of one character so we experience the intimacy and connection between them. High-Angle shot At the beginning slowly pans over a modern house, symbolizing isolation and loneliness. This contrasts with the cozy apartment shown in the flashback, highlighting the emotional distance between past and present. Close-Ups focus on the elderly Katy Perry, capturing her expressions and emotions. These intimate shots allow viewers to connect with her feelings of regret and longing.
mise-en-scene
Props like the wedding veil, paintings, and red paint symbolize love, conflict, and memories that stay with the characters. The elderly katy perry present day home is much cooler and more muted, reflecting her loneliness and the loss she feels. Costumes also show the passage of time like the young couple wears casual, playful clothes, while the older woman wears simple, muted outfits, emphasizing maturity and reflection. the two canvasses/ paintings/ paint showcased that the young couple had shared interests and connected on a deeper level with art.
sound
The sound does not really match with the lyrics in terms of tune/ melody because its more hip and upbeat while the lyrics and the story are very heartbreaking. but the Lyrics like “In another life, I would be your girl” directly connect to the flashbacks of her and her first love, showing what could have been if things had gone differently. The music supports the visuals by making the memories feel more nostalgic and emotional, helping the audience feel the heartbreak and longing that the woman experiences.
conventions conformed
The video follows several typical pop music video conventions. Katy Perry is the main focus in some parts and lip-syncs to the song, which is common in pop videos to connect the artist with the story. It features a car, flashbacks, and narrative storytelling that clearly shows the plot from beginning to end. The theme of love and heartbreak is central, which is typical for pop ballads, and the story emphasizes emotions in a way the audience can easily relate to.
conventions subverted
the video subverts conventions through the contrast between the song and the story. Although the song has an upbeat pop melody, the narrative is sad and tragic. Normally, pop videos match happy music with happy visuals, so this contrast would surprise the audience. It features an elderly protagonist, which is unusual for pop videos that normally focus on young adults. lastly, The ending is tragic instead of happy.
why do you like/ dislike it?
I really love this music video because it’s exactly the kind of emotional, story-driven style I envision for my own music video project. I love the heartbreak story and the theme of regret, especially how it doesn’t have a happy ending, which makes it feel more realistic and emotional. The use of flashbacks to show past memories is something I want to include in my video aswell because it makes the audience really feel what has been lost. i don’t have any dislikes about this music video except for the aged make-up look on katy perry as the elderly woman, it looks very unrealistic and uncanny.
reflection:
overall, doing this research has been so much fun, but also extremely tiring but it’s given me a ton of new ideas for my own project. I’ve seen so many new perspectives to interpret lyrics and turn them into visuals that create a pop music video. Watching The One That Got Away and We Can’t Be Friends made me super excited because they dont feel like pop videos but they’re like mini movies full of heartbreak, regret, and memories and that's something i really want to do for my project. It’s inspired me to think about how I can use flashbacks, storytelling, and little visual details in my own music video to make it feel more emotional and cinematic. I feel way more motivated now and have a lot more ideas than before i started this research. I can’t wait to start the whole process and experimenting with these ideas myself.







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