RESEARCH - CONVENTIONS OF MUSIC VIDEOS (2/3)

What Genre is the music and how is this reflected in the video?

The genre of this song is Rap. This is reflected in the video by the fast paced music and editing, and by the costume Eminem is wearing whilst rapping in front of the Guitar Hero background.

How do the images relate to the lyrics?

Throughout the song there are constant lyrics to pop-culture of the time. When rapping about it he is dressed in a costume relating to the person or event, in a location recognisably relating to it as well.

How do the images relate to the music?

The song is very upbeat and fast paced. This is complimented by the bright colours used throughout the video, and the short shots cut to the beat of the music.

How is the artist presented to sell them? How important are the close ups?

The video starts with Eminem saying 'Guess Who? You miss me?' This establishes that he is already a well known global superstar. Throughout the video he plays each of the characters that he is rapping about, so he is in every scene and remains the centre of attention.

Is there any reference to 'looking'? Are females presented voyeuristically?

In the scene about Sarah Palin, a pornographic actress is used. In the scene about Kim Kardashian, the actress has a largely oversized bum. In the part set on Planet Womyn, Eminem mocks feminism throughout.

Can you spot any intertextual references?

The whole video is built around intertextual references. They are:
Jessica Alba, Jessica Simpson, Guitar Hero, Kim Kardashian, Star Trek, Bret Michaels, John Mayer, Jennifer Aniston, Dukes of Hazzard, Elvis Presley, Ellen DeGeneres, Tony Romo, Marshall Mathers himself, Lindsay Lohan, Transformers, Sarah Palin, Britney Spears, and Amy Winehouse.

Comments on Camerawork, editing, mise-en-scene, special effects, sound.

The editing is fast paced and to the beat of the music. Location and costume used to fit the lyrics. Sound effects used for comical effect (e.g. farting). Bright Colours used, not normally seen in the rap genre, but Eminem's songs tend to be much more light hearted than most rappers.

Is there a narrative? How is the video organised and structured?

The Rap is talking about Eminem returning to the music industry after a long time out of it. He mainly talks about current affairs, and these are seen throughout the video as he mocks a lot of the biggest celebrities of the time.