Music Vid Analysis 1

ACT: Bee Gees

TRACK: Stayin' Alive

YEAR: 1977

DIRECTOR: 

GENRE: Disco

MAIN AUDIENCE: M/F 15-35

 Opening shots are of abandoned and derelict buildings. We initially see no performers although the opening of the track is playing. This creates a narrative enigma as we have no clues as to the location or characters.

The three performers are introduced in a mid-shot that tracks with them as they walk. This signifies their importance, particularly the one who is centrally framed.

Another tracking shot; this follows the performers from the other side of the derelict train carriage.

 This is the first full body shot of all three performers walking together.

The mise-en-scene is notable as it depicts a run-down and decrepit location, similar to a studio back lot that in the earlier days of Hollywood film-making would've featured a number of permanent standing sets.

The central framing and zoom on the lead performer here reinforces the notion that he is the most important.

Another 'travelling' shot that features all three performers together moving across the landscape. These shots are used to fill in the breaks between the chorus and the verse.

The low angle here reinforces the performers importance and dominance. Still, the backdrop is quite striking and the three appear small next to it.

The lead also has many close ups which the other performers don't have. This would also reinforce his dominance. At this point, the video reuses various shots and some complete clips from earlier points.

The joint arm pointing action would signify that the climax of the song has been reached.

The performers grow increasingly small, and the long shadows of their surroundings would suggest that the day is drawing to a close, and so is the song.

This shot seems to suggest that they are travelling on a train which is slowly moving away.