Full Textual Analysis 2: "You Need To Calm Down" - By Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift  - 'You Need To Calm Down’

Directed by Drew Kirsch & Taylor Swift

CINEMATOGRAPHY

• This video was shot in Santa Clarita, California. This means that the colours are all very bright and vivid, as the bright sun enhances the bold colours. This in turn keeps all of the scenes exciting and visually interesting to look at. 
• In addition, the bright colours and lack of dark shadows reflects the overall positive LGBT pride and happy, relaxed tone of the piece, with hints of mockery towards those that are against sexuality freedom and self-expression.
• Drones are frequently used to capture birds-eye shots of a pool float in the middle of a large paddling pool. This shot type allows us to see the whole pool, and highlights the individual in the centre, creating a more impactful shot. Another birds-eye shot that is filmed by a drone, captures an anti-LGBTQ+ protest group. This is clearly mocking them, making their argument seem completely irrational and unfair. The birds-eye shot also adds a sense of inferiority to the protesters, making their argument seem very inconsiderate, yet a if they are not a threat, as the audience and our contrasting shared opinions are quite literally above theirs. 
• Mid shots and close-up shots are used in this video to highlight the emotions and expressions of the celebrities in the video. This helps the audience to notice the messages and feelings more, and to realise the themes in the video. 
• Tracking shots allow us to see more of the scene, and follow the characters around. They keep the video interesting to look at. 

EDITING

• The video begins with a series of short clips featuring elements and items that are symbolic of different messages. The fact that the clips are short means that they are more affective in deploying the messages in the video, as the audience is kept alert noticing them.
• Some scenes are longer in length, as then more of the surroundings can be noticed, and the audience is kept engaged. 
• A variety of clip lengths and scene lengths means that interest is kept high throughout the video. This is important, as if all of the scenes were short, then it would be hard to develop the video and display the elements and messages without bombarding the audience with too much information.
• If all of the scenes were long, or if the video was filmed in one go, then the audience could be less interested.

SOUND

MISE-EN-SCENE

• Many colours incorporated into the characters clothing and props reflect the LGBT bright and vivid colours. 
• You could argue that some costumes are so colourful and vivid that they almost take on a psychedelic feel, reflecting the happiness and freedom that they are advocating.
• Celebrity culture heavily influences the use of heavy make- up, and provocative clothing. These features help to draw your attention to individuals. 
• The video is filled with celebrity cameos such as Katy Perry, Laverne Cox, RuPaul, Ryan Reynolds and the men from the TV show ‘Queer Eye’
• The protest group against LGBTQ+ rights are frequently pictured with placards that are misspelled. As a result, it is as if the audience is mocking them.
• Throughout the video, homages are paid to a variety of celebrities and icons through the use of props. For example Audrey Hepburn, with the inclusion of a Tiffany blue sleep mask, iconically embroidered with golden closed eyes. This could be referencing Hepburn’s laid back style and acceptance of people.
• The artist Taylor Swift’s personality, quirks and hints at the future are expressed through the use of a variety of props. For example, a phone case revealing the title of her upcoming album, a watch with a cat face (her renowned favourite animal), and a tattoo featuring a snake blossoming into an abundance of butterflies on her back. This reflects her development as an artist from her ‘snake’ era, into her more free and happy ‘lover’ era, filled with rainbows and butterflies.
• Drag Queens are also a key feature of this video, with very extravagant make-up and costumes to accentuate their features and highlight their beauty. You could argue that these elements are exaggerated in this video, as if to say that it is ok to wear make-up and express yourself, no matter who you are.