Music Video Analysis

Top 9


1 - Instant impact!


The video opens with shots of Rihanna with her striking red hair set against the backdrop of a flaming house. We then cut to shots of Megan Fox and Dominic Monaghan; two well known actors lying in a bed together. We also see a shot of Megan Fox holding a flame in her hands. The images of fire are striking; immediately grabbing the audiences attention. And the high status' of Rihanna and Megan Fox add to the instant impact of the video.

2 - Non-linear editing


The video cuts between the performances by Rihanna and Eminem, and the narrative with the actors. This makes for a more interesting video than just one or the other. The story told between Megan and Dominic is edited in a non-linear fashion, also, being more of a montage sequence than seamless editing. We see lots of different aspects of their relationship; the ups and downs.

3 - Repetitions


The shots of Rihanna in front of the flaming house are returned to for each chorus;  to strong effect. These shots are dramatic and powerful. We also see the stagnancy of the relationship between the two characters; they go from madly in love to repeatedly abusing each other again and again. Seeing

4 - Strong sense of artist identity, the performance


Definitely. Eminem's performance stands out in this video; as does Rihanna's. As well as performing and lip syncing the song with high levels of professionality, they act whilst singing; facial expressions and body language expressing the emotions of the song. The performers mimic the performances of the two actors, conveying the frustration at a failing relationship. I think Eminem and Rihanna's performances are particularly convincing as both of them have experienced violent and disturbed relationships.


Then there are the performances of the two lead actors; Megan Fox and Dominic Monaghan. They are both fantastic (already established actors) and the tones of their performances perfectly suit those of the song.

5 - Visual Pleasures

There are many 'visual pleasures' in this song; the foremost being Megan Fox. Damn, she hot. While very shallow, it is true that attractive performers do help music videos; Rihanna is gorgeous also.

Other examples include the fantastically varied array of backdrops and locations which the video is set to. The large field Eminem is rapping in is gorgeous; sunlight pours over everything and the golden colours make for a beautiful scene. The burning house is also amazing to watch; especially with a broken looking Rihanna singing mournfully in front of it.

Finally, the SPX on the flames look fantastic; adding a layer of supernatural to the video, to great effect. The shots of Eminem, Dominic and Megan Fox burning are particular stand outs; visually it looks incredible, especially for a music video (normally not as high a budget for SFX as, say, a feature film).

6 - Wow Factor!

Lots of 'wow factor' in this video. The performers and actors themselves are worthy of a credit; their performances and attractiveness in this video make it particularly memorable. The burning effects are very impressive; as is the burning house. And the actual themes and story told are heavy stuff; it works brilliantly to convey this crazy relationship.

7 - Provoke a reaction

It provoked a reaction in me; the story told was actually very moving; made convincing by the fantastic performances. The idea of a schizophrenic relationship is really sad; people who love each other but never know how to express it to each other.

8 - Works on different levels

It works emotionally; powerfully. It shows fantastic performances all round; the music it self is good. The lyrical genius of Eminem is once again highlighted in this song; as is Rihanna's beautiful voice. The video manages to tell a story; one which can be projected on to many different couples experiencing this kind of controlling relationship. 

9 - Pop Culture
Eminem and Rihanna are pop culture. As are Megan Fox and Dominic Monaghan, two well known actors.