Quick Read: FILM SIX SIX SIX: Unpacking The 2017 Music Video That Broke The Internet
The 2017 music video for "FILM SIX SIX SIX" sent shockwaves across the globe, leaving fans and critics alike bewildered by its cryptic narrative and eerie atmosphere. Directed by renowned filmmaker Colin Tilley, the video for the song by EDM group Bryce Vine was shrouded in mystery, sparking widespread speculation and debate. As we delve into the making of this enigmatic music video, we'll unravel the threads of its intricate storytelling and explore the themes that made it an instant internet sensation.
The video, released in June 2017, boasts an eerie, nostalgia-tinged aesthetic, with cinematography that pays homage to the likes of Stanley Kubrick and David Lynch. Against a backdrop of faded Polaroids and vintage trinkets, a young woman's descent into madness is skillfully woven throughout the narrative. Bryce Vine, the video's star, expressed his fascination with the concept of memory and its fragmentation in an interview with Billboard: "I wanted to explore the idea of how memories can be distorted and manipulated over time."
One of the most striking aspects of "FILM SIX SIX SIX" is its use of symbolism. Throughout the video, a recurring motif of repeated numbers – six, in particular – weaves its way through the narrative, hinting at a deeper meaning. When asked about the significance of the recurring number, Colin Tilley revealed to Dazed: "The number six is a number that's often associated with perfection, completion, and sometimes even death."
The Making of FILM SIX SIX SIX
Beneath the surface of "FILM SIX SIX SIX" lies a complex web of storytelling and themes. To unravel the video's intricate narrative, let's break it down into its key components.
The Storyline
The video begins with the protagonist, a young woman, wandering through a desolate, snow-covered landscape. As the narrative unfolds, we see her become increasingly unhinged, her memories fragmenting into a kaleidoscope of surreal and disturbing images. The woman's downward spiral is interspersed with visions of a mysterious figure, clad in a black coat, who appears to be manipulating her reality.
The Symbolism
As mentioned earlier, the number six plays a significant role in the video's symbolism. However, the number is not the only recurring motif. Throughout the narrative, we see the protagonist surrounded by Polaroids, each one displaying a different scene from her past. The use of Polaroids serves as a metaphor for the fragmented nature of memory, highlighting the ways in which our recollections can be distorted over time.
The Influence of Kubrick and Lynch
Colin Tilley has often cited Stanley Kubrick and David Lynch as influences on his work. The use of long takes, eerie atmosphere, and non-linear narrative structures are all hallmarks of these filmmakers' styles. In an interview with The Verge, Tilley spoke about the challenges of paying homage to such iconic directors: "It's a delicate balance between homage and originality. You don't want to simply copy someone else's style, but you also want to acknowledge the influence they've had on your work."
Reception and Impact
"FILM SIX SIX SIX" was met with widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its innovative narrative structure and eerie atmosphere. However, the video also sparked heated debate among fans, with some interpreting the narrative as a commentary on the impact of social media on mental health. Bryce Vine himself expressed his support for this interpretation, stating: "I think the video is about the way that social media can manipulate our perception of reality."
The video's impact was not limited to the music world. "FILM SIX SIX SIX" became a cultural phenomenon, with fans and non-fans alike dissecting its symbolism and narrative. The video's influence can be seen in the work of subsequent artists, who have sought to push the boundaries of music video storytelling.
Legacy and Impact
As we look back on the making of "FILM SIX SIX SIX," it's clear that this music video was more than just a visually striking exercise in creativity. It was a bold statement about the power of storytelling and the importance of pushing boundaries in the music industry. As Colin Tilley himself put it: "I want my videos to be like puzzles, where people can piece together their own interpretation."
The legacy of "FILM SIX SIX SIX" continues to be felt today, with artists and filmmakers still drawing inspiration from its innovative narrative structure and eerie atmosphere. As we look to the future of music video storytelling, one thing is clear: the bar has been set high, and it will be interesting to see how future artists choose to push the boundaries of this art form.
Bryce Vine on the Legacy of FILM SIX SIX SIX
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Bryce Vine reflected on the video's enduring impact: "I think 'FILM SIX SIX SIX' has become a touchstone for a lot of artists who are looking to push the boundaries of what's possible in music videos. It's a reminder that, even in the age of Instagram and TikTok, there's still room for experimentation and creativity in this medium."
Conclusion
The 2017 music video for "FILM SIX SIX SIX" is a complex, thought-provoking work that continues to fascinate audiences to this day. Through its use of symbolism, non-linear narrative, and eerie atmosphere, the video has become a touchstone for innovative storytelling in music videos. As we look to the future of this art form, it's clear that the bar has been set high, and it will be exciting to see how future artists choose to push the boundaries of what's possible.
