I picked the music video “The Wolf” by Siames, directed by Fer Suniga & RUDO Co. Analysing it within the 4 criterias, it was evident that the animaiton is a ofrm of conceptual abstraction, representing the lyrical theme of music.
Above : stills from The Wolf music video, SIAMES (2017). SIAMÉS ‘The Wolf’ [Official Animated Music Video]. YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lX44CAz-JhU
1. Categorization
The music video is a narrative-driven conceptual abstraction. The animation has a unique storytelling style using minimal designs of characters and visually appealing transitions which complement the musical rhythm. It tells a loose story involving a group of characters haunted by a wolf-like manifestation of their internal fears or desires. The tone is dark and suspenseful, blending noir and thriller elements.
2. Form and Function
The video’s objective is to visually amplify the song’s themes using stylized animation and metaphorical storytelling. The animation functions to complement the music’s rhythm and lyrics, emphasizing tension and release. The limitations are inherent in its abstract approach, which leaves much open to interpretation, allowing each viewer to derive their own meaning.
3. Process
The director uses 2D animation with a graphic novel aesthetic, marked by sharp contrasts, bold lines, and minimal character designs. The animation uses dynamic camera angles and flowing transitions to intensify the music’s emotion. The ‘wolf’ is represented in a free form, with multiple limbs and solid black color with red eyes. Its movement is stylized to represent an uncontrolable impulse or rage, creating a direct relation the lyrics of the music.
4. Formal Elements
The use of space and composition is cinematic, creating tension through tight framing and dramatic perspectives. The color palette relies on high contrast, dominated by blacks, whites, and reds, reinforcing the ominous tone. Movement is fluid and energetic, mirroring the music’s rhythm, with pacing that syncs perfectly to the song’s beats. Transitions are sharp yet cohesive, matching the shifts in tone and energy. The audio and visuals are tightly integrated, each enhancing the other’s impact.
This music video exemplifies experimental animation through its conceptual storytelling, stylized aesthetics, and effective fusion of sound and image.