I was beginning to wonder if the Boys were getting run down, burnt out, too tired - any other number of reasons which could explain the horrid videos they've been making lately. In fact, I was just about to pluck the phone from it's cradle to call a complaint into Jive for ever letting such products make it out of the editing room. Come to think of it, I would have probably "jingled" the Firm, the Boys themselves, and just about anyone else I could think of for justification. Hell, maybe their mailman or the UPS delivery guy for MTV have an inkling. But all of that was before "Show Me The Meaning..." debuted on New Year's Eve.
The Boys latest cinematographic effort is all that -and a bag of chips. For the first time since Millennium was released, I truly feel the video for a song off the album has met expectation. I would even go so far as to say it's surpassed it, considering my prior rants and raves concerning "Larger Than Life". We all know how much I loved that video. Uh huh.
However, to spite their last two flops, "Show Me The Meaning..." has been a study in excellence, from the haunting introduction to the spiritually riveting close. 'Heartwrenching' is the best word I can use to describe the emotions this video evoked. I paid particular attention to the personal udertones and themes of the piece, which really, made this video the fine work that it is. The Boys went above and beyond the call of duty, stardom, and dinero to bring us a little piece of themselves. For better or for worse, we're a large, vocal part of their lives; a presence they simply can't ignore. Despite all of the negative aspects of their career, I am honored that they chose to share such a personal part of themselves with us, the fans. It makes you believe the Boys when they say "I Want It That Way" because we (the fans) are "Larger Than Life". Something the previous two videos off of Millennium failed to do.
Tearjerking moments, (which are, coincidentally, the most excellent of a technical nature as well) were more than abundant, a veritable cornucopia of emotion. For example, the swift shot of the man lying in the hospital bed, oxygen mask pulled off his face to reveal the subject as Brian. A brillant reference to his near complete death as a child at age five. One of the things I love about Brian, is his way of dating himself: "I've lived five years of my life, and twenty years of grace." It's no wonder such a person would be involved with such a fantastic video, is it not?
The ambiance of the film was magical. I'd like to cite the shot of Kevin's father's face projected over his shoulder as Kevin leans against the window frame as evidence of this fact. It simply doesn't get any better than that.
Though a few argue that Nick's character was to represent 'death', I'm fairly skeptical about the idea. They state that Nick (death) was there to reclaim what was rightfully his. (i.e., pulling the girl from in front of the bus.) My interrpretation differs in that, I saw Nick as a man trying to hold on to someone's presense in his life. Trying to take back what was said, done, and lost. Perhaps he was thinking back to what he should have, could have, or would have done. But, as always, that's just my opinion.
AJ's part in this venture was beautifully acted. I could almost feel the frigid glass of that window pane on my own cheek. Let's just say that I'd have no problem plopping down in front of the TV during prime time to watch a drama starring Alexander James McLean. I mean really, how many men do you know who can cry on command? (Unless that tear streaking down his cheek was added via computer. In that case, I believe I'd be supremely disappointed. If you're aware that this was the case, I beg of you....don't tell me. I'm disillusioned enough as it is.)
The only gripe I have with this video (you knew this was coming) was it's failure to feature a certain someone in equality with the rest of the guys. I mean, come on! A few frames near the end of the video? Puh-lease. Howie deserves much more than that. I'd seriously like to ask the director is he somehow missed the soulful expression occupying Sweet D's face during his portions of the song. He's an icredibly sexy man as well. Surely, that's worth something? A little more screen time, perhaps?
All in all, I really couldn't find anything to bitch and moan about. I'm sure you've noticed this "From Where I Sit..." entry has been quite gushing in it's praise. But that's only because I believe in crediting good work where you can find it. In fact, I'd even go so far as to say that "Show Me The Meaning...." is right up there with my other favorite piece of cinematography, "Everybody".
And if I ever meet the fine man who directed this fabulous video, I'm gonna plant a big wet one on him. Followed by a good bitch smack. For Howie's sake.
~Jessi
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