By now, most of us have heard the basic storyline of the video. Five supermodels are playing Duran Duran in the day in their life style and the band is featured as chauffeurs, bellhops, etc. This day in the life includes a fancy hotel, jewels, much attention from the press, chauffeurs and everything that would be thought of in a stereotyped view of the rich and famous. Now, I cannot judge the video yet or, even really, the storyline but it is clear that they are trying to present a certain image about what it is like to be a rich and famous person/group. (Don’t worry, readers, we will be reviewing the video!) Today’s clip about the use of Swarovski’s bling emphasizing this image. Assuming that my conclusion about the image they are presenting is right, I wonder why they decided to present such an extreme representation of being rich and famous. I also wonder if it is the right choice.
Throughout Duran’s history, they have often presented a jet-set, super-rich lifestyle. Obviously, the image of Rio is one that has stayed with the band for decades. Some critics took this image to decide that Duran was not a serious band and a band that did not care about current state of affairs. Others, including a lot of fans, loved it as it represented a complete escape from their harsh realities. One thing I always appreciated about that Rio video was the humor woven throughout it as the band presented themselves as uncoordinated dorks. Is that what the band is going for by having the supermodels represent them and by having them serving the female version of the band? Maybe. We will find out. That said, Duran is at a much different place in their careers. When Rio was made, they were just climbing towards fame, fortune and success. Now, Duran is legendary. They are not the biggest band in the world despite their long-lasting, successful career. They are also no longer in their 20s. Now, they are in their early 50’s, except for Nick who will be turning 50 soon enough.
Will this video work for them now? Will the image they are projecting help with their careers? Will this rich and famous lifestyle be embraced as an escape or will it seem silly? Perhaps, the video will make us all see rock stars in a different way. Maybe, it will question people’s assumptions about what life really is like or is not like for those who fit the category of rich and famous. I don’t have answers and I am not judging the video before I see it. These teasers and extra clips have got me thinking, wondering, pondering…This thinking is obviously one thing that I have always appreciated about Duran. They usually get me thinking. In many cases, I find myself in agreement with them or in awe over what they did. Other times, I’m left wondering what the heck they were thinking. By this time next week, I’ll know which way I have gone with this video.
One thing I can say, though, about the video so far is that they are really trying to get people’s attention by releasing the teasers and other clips. They are making a big deal out of the premiere in a way that I haven’t seen in a long time and this reminds me of how world premieres of videos were “back in the day”. It seemed to be a big deal when a new video was premiered, usually on MTV. Heck, I still have the world premiere of I Don’t Want Your Love on VHS somewhere. 🙂 Will I remember this premiere as fondly?!
-A
The “Girl Panic” video is a brilliant idea. Having original Supermodels, who were basically the Justice League of models for a while there, still looking amazing, acting as The Band (who are as you know are still looking amazing), poking a little fun at 'The Lifestyle' of Duran Past is a brilliant idea. I love the idea that they are having a laugh and having fun working with their friends; creating something FUN. I won't look into it as anything more than a ride on Space Mountain – something they enjoyed making. I think it's going to be the balls. – Jordi (From Portland. Saw the Portland, Oregon show. Lucky to have met the band. Gave them vinyl records for their Tour Turntable. They were very nice. I hope you guys have a BLAST in the UK!:)
Jordi-I hope you are totally right about the Girl Panic video! I hope that is poking fun at the lifestyle! I thought Falling Down was brillant as it made me think about the stereotypes about the band. I hope this does the same.
Very cool about meeting them in Portland! Glad to hear it was a positive experience!
-A
I can't wait to see the video. I do see what you are saying about 'young and naive' Rio lifestyle to the tounge in cheek splashy Girl Panic video.
Sure some will see it as a bunch of rich old rockstars and beautiful woman. I personally think it is a bit of humour – in gorgeous packaging.
One thing over the last few months I've become aware of – and this is thanks to Twitter and FB- is how hard the guys work. Maybe because they are unsigned now? But the amount of effort they put in into their work. Constant updates and always on the go. The glam side of disappears when JT tweets about cutting his toenails (albeit in a 5 star hotel!) or Dom about his hangovers and missing his kids. 😉
I really hope the video is not old rock stars and beautiful women. I think they are smart enough and witty enough to make this good but I worry.
You are right about their tweets and status updates showing the less than glam part of their lives! LOL
-A
I'm having a very difficult time reserving judgment until I see the whole thing, but I will say this much: if you have to keep reminding people you're a rockstar through various methods…does it have the same effect?
Oh yes, I did just ask that! -R
I keep hoping that it will be like Falling Down was as I'm sure I would have been doubtful of that video by just seeing some clips.
-A
Aw, I'm sure it'll be fine Amanda – I was just trying to stir the pot a bit. 😀 We'll soon see!!! – R