Analysis of a Pop Video 4

Bruno Mars - The Lazy Song

'The Lazy Song' music video is highly unconventional for the genre as only one framed shot is used throughout (to create the effect of being filmed on a webcam which links to the lyrics of the song as it is filmed supposedly without leaving his house). This is very rare in music videos which usually consist of many, many varying shots to avoid viewer fatigue. As well as this, Bruno Mars has no costume or location changes which again contrasts the ideas of what creates a good music video and avoids viewer fatigue. However the video does manage to keep the viewer interested despite the 'samey' costumes and lack of change. 

In terms of cinematography, although the actual camera isn't moved or re-framed in any way, the subjects (artist and actors) move far away from and towards the camera throughout the video which creates the idea that there are close-ups, mid shots, long shots etc which helps to avoid viewer fatigue. There are no costume changes, and all of the subjects wear very similar costumes (sunglasses/checked shirt/black trousers), in fact the only time there is any form of change in costume is when Bruno and the dancers drop their trousers and dance instead in boxer shorts. Use of dance and props such as a guitar, wheelie chair and ticker tape further help to avoid the viewer's boredom and keep them interested.


I think the video does work well as a promotional tool for Bruno Mars as an artist and for sales of 'The Lazy Song' as although the video does oppose the traditional ideas and values of 'what makes a good music video?' it creates interest due to it's difference to other music videos in the pop market. As well as this, the lack of shots allows the viewer to create more of a virtual 'relationship' with the artist as it allows Mars to portray a playful, lad-ish character more effectively through dance and facial expressions which appeals to a young market as the artist comes across as fun, friendly and energetic. This is a good foundation for promotion as somebody is much more likely to want to buy a single and pay money to somebody they like as a person rather than somebody who may come across as unfriendly or arrogant.