Music video analysis of 'The Pharcyde 'Drop' by Spike Jonze

Here is an analysis of The Pharcyde's music video 'drop', a three and a half minute music video. The video was Directed by Spike Jonze, and uses new media techniques to show moving imagery that had initially been untried.

Camerawork

The majority of the shots used in this music video are done via dollying of the camera. These shots are used to show fluidity in the motions and emphasises the movements of the characters in the scene. The large usage of low angle shots also empowers the characters in the film, as it adds the effect that the viewer is looking up at them.

Sound

The film is set to fit to The Pharcyde's song 'Drop' and the actions that occur within are loosely linked around the lyrics within the track. The soundtrack is fairly serious in its delivery, which is why the actions within the video suprise me so much. The actions are somewhat goofy, showing the characters to be able to do near impossible movements. This contrast in the two forms of media makes the viewing experience only more interesting. The pace of the song is fairly slow so as a result of the slow motion movements of the characters, they are able to fit perfectly in time to the music. The entirety of the film uses non-diagetic sound, thus accentuating the experience for the viewer to be fairly surreal.

Editing

The clip is edited in a way that it will appear that this journey occurred in one fluid motion. Throughout the entirity of the clip, there are only four transitions. This adds to the effect of the video, as the viewer is able to intake all of the actions and surroundings, improving the video's appearance.

Mise-en-Scene

The use of clothing as props in this video helps to create a surreal narrative to the music video. The characters have three sets of wardrobe throughout the video. The quick transitions and change of clothes make the video seem less realistic and almost dream like.

The lighting within this piece is entirely done through natural sources, however this does not take away from the overall appearance of the piece, as the light is consistent throughout.

Props for the most part are not used within this piece, apart from to accompany the movement of the characters e.g. cars which they jump off. However, the use of the hammer at the end to shatter the sheet of glass creates an interesting climax to the music video.