Truly great music videos are theatrical. They're not just about half-naked girls and nice cars -- the ones with staying power have compelling characters, intelligent story lines, unforgettable art direction and, often, a good dose of intrigue.
But can a video, created to promote a recording artist's single, ever be turned into a really good full-length movie? As reported by Deadline Hollywood, the director of the posthumous Michael Jackson documentary 'This is It,' Kenny Ortega, is currently "in talks" to make a movie based on the greatest music video of all time, 'Thriller.'
At first, it seems odd to imagine how a 1983 music video could translate into a 90-minute feature film. But then again, all it takes is just the right grain of inspiration, and a commitment to the vision, to produce an epic movie. We're not saying Jackson's 'Thriller' is guaranteed to become a good movie (if the project comes to fruition at all), but since the source material is so iconic, it's certainly possible. There are actually quite a few powerful, inspiring music videos, across many genres, that could be adapted into decent full-length films, for reasons having little to do with the music itself.
What do you think? Do you think music videos can inspire movies? Here are 10 prime candidates.
'Runaway' by Kanye West
Let's get right to the obvious one, released last weekend to great fanfare. Kanye West considers the artsy 34-minute clip that he conceived and directed to be a short film, but let's be honest -- it's a long music video. Still, an experienced director could turn 'Runaway' into an allegory on racism and elitism in the music industry.
'One More Time' by Daft Punk
It actually doesn't make sense not too include 'Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger' or 'Aerodynamic' as well, since they're basically one giant linked video (*cough* Kanye! *cough*). It's essentially an awesome animation of music-jamming blue aliens battling evil invaders. Who hasn't seen that movie before?
Click here for the video.
'Paparazzi' by Lady Gaga
How could we make a music video list and not include Lady Gaga? 'Paparazzi' is a perfect starlet-revenge movie, and it's obvious that Gaga aimed to make her video highly cinematic. Indeed, she seems poised to attempt an acting career in the future.
'Sabotage' by The Beastie Boys
Another easy pick. 'Sabotage' could ultimately be a funnier version of 'Starsky & Hutch,' except there are three, and they wear mustaches and sunglasses. And, of course, they rap.
'Where's Your Head At?' by Basement Jaxx
Picture 'King Kong,' only with little monkeys who play electro-house music and have human-brain transplants. Sounds like a hilarious B-movie.
'Dear Stan' by Eminem
It's a timeless story about a demented fan trying to connect with his idol -- and if it morphed into a feature-length thriller, the fan in the movie's plot could attempt to assassinate Eminem (as an homage to John Lennon).
'On to the Next One' by Jay-Z
Honestly, this video doesn't have much of a storyline, but it looks so damn cool. Maybe Jay-Z could pose as the devil and use his scary-looking minions to launch an attack on Nas' house.
'Weapon of Choice' by Fatboy Slim
Christopher Walken could star in this film as a grumpy insurance salesman who feels a release from his everyday stresses by dancing in public places (and oh yeah, he can fly).
'Coffee and TV' by Blur
Beyond the walking, smiling carton of milk in this video, it could easily be the basis for a story about a young boy in search of his missing big brother. Right?
'I Will Possess Your Heart' by Death Cab for Cutie
Although this video looks a little too much like 'Eat Pray Love" -- about a girl traveling the world in search of something profound -- it still features very compelling imagery. This time, we'd switch out Julie Roberts for Kristen Stewart.
The full-length movie of "One More Time" already exists. It's called Interstella 5555 and it's the length of the whole Discovery album. Do a little research next time, please. kthxbye
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liens battling evil invaders. Who hasn't seen that movie before?
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That reminds me: I need my daily Daft Punk fix. Appreciate the memo,Jett!
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I think it's a horrible idea. If Michael were still alive there is no way he would agree to this.
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The full-length movie of "One More Time" already exists. It's called Interstella 5555 and it's the length of the whole Discovery album. Do a little research next time, please. kthxbye
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Hello! "Take On Me" from AHA!!!!
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