iLL Manors music video analysis

Media Forms
How is it typical of a music video? 
It contains elements of both narrative and performance that allow the audience to understand the overall message that Plan B is trying to deliver. This is done through fast paced editing and also several camera shots and movements , (MS, LS, panning ), that further build up the meaning behind the music video. There are several closeups of the artist/characters , especially in terms of clothing and props. This is shown to attract the target audience. Also, the performer is looking directly at the viewer to interact with them.  

The basic structure is typical to that of a music video as it within the 3-4 minute time frame, and combines a range of visual imagery such as animation and live performance by the rapper himself. The video also uses symbolism to support the lyrics and add meaning to the narrative- Plan B uses a montage of real life news clips to help communicate his ideas. 


Media Representations
How does it represent the London riots/rioters?
The music video uses news clips from the event to emphasize the point Plan B is trying. It presents them as reckless and violent as there are many scenes in the video where they vandalize cars and shops. By doing this, he suggests that, the rioters are to blame for their unlawful behavior, whereas in fact, they are meant to show us that riots occur due to the fact that these sections of society (especially youths )are neglected and ''unwelcome''. In a way, Plan B mocks those who believe that the riots are to be blamed on the reckless youth, and purposely shows the events at the riots to make his point clear. 


Media Audiences
What audience pleasures does the music video offer?
The actors from the film (or their characters) appear in the music video, which could excite the audience as they have a sense of recognition. Also the visual imagery ties on with the pace/tempo of the song. For example during the bits where Plan B takes the audience on an ''urban safari'' the pace of editing is quite slow, wheres during the chorus, Plan B performs in an aggressive and expressive manner. The visuals are therefore quite satisfying in terms of mirroring the tempo of the song. Another example of this is when the beat drops when Plan B throws the bottle (which has a piece of cloth in it which is ignited), into the car and it explodes. 

The video is a form of entertainment and distraction (Uses and Gratifications theory) as the visuals are aesthetically pleasing throughout (with the use of interesting graphics and effects). This allows the audience to be submerged into the media. 


Media Institutions
How does the music video help to promote the film of the same name?
The music video features the characters/ actors from which gives the audience a sense of recognition. The song is also featured in the beginning of the film where the narrator, Plan B himself, is introduced. The music video also includes social media links at the end to promote the film aswell. This is an example of synergy - which allows the viewers to interact with the film and find out about exclusive info e.g behind the scenes, release dates etc 

Ill Manors soundtrack research task

• The Ill Manors soundtrack album was recorded in 2011-12 in two studios: ''The Sanctuary''(London, UK) and ''Edge Recording Studio''(Alderley edge, UK). It was released on the ''Warner Bros Records and Atlantic records'' label and was produced by various artists which include, Al Shux, David McEwan, and Labrinth. 
• The singles from the album include: Ill Manors, Playing with Fire, Lost My Way and Deepest Shame
• The Metacritic website gave the album an average score of 83 out of 10. The album was also shortlisted for a Mercury Prize in 2012. 
• It peaked at Number 1 on the UK music charts in August 2012.  
• The Telegraph claims the album is ''cutting- edge and on a lyrical level, is brutally brilliant''
• Fans such as ''Forest90'' claim the album ''was an incredible experience from start to finish''.