Emma J. Gilbertson explores power and control in her breatkhtaking promo for Cody Frost.A work of two halves, the first section of the video for DWYSSWM, is a candy-coated dance number which feels innocent and dynamic, but this soon delves into a darker, more twisted aesthetic to represent the themes of the track, with the artist bound by ropes in the fashion of the Japanese Shibari method. "Inspired by the lyrics of the song, we wanted to create a video about abusive and controlling relationships," Gilbertson explains. "We decided to go for a Valentine's day-themed first half to show abusive relationships can often be hidden under sweet sentiments. In the second half of the video we wanted to reveal the true nature and insidiousness of the relationship." Movement is the true focus of the visual, and the vessel through which the concept comes to life, alongside bold colour schemes and frenetic camera movement. "Joshua choreographed the movement to be controlling Cody, with a forced smile to attempt to keep up the facade," continues Gilbertson. "We used Shibari as an artform to show how trapped Cody's character was, as well as vibrant lighting to power the anger of the song."
Rob Ulitski - 7th Mar 2022