A Look Back on Jonas Odell

I love music videos, to me they feel like one of the highest artform in film. There are as many styles of them as they're styles of music. And would you believe it has been a decade since I have been exposed to theses combination of audio and visual, now granted I remember my mother used to watch these and the "Clint Eastwood" video from the Gorillaz was the first one I was ever into but still. The music videos of the last decade are what showed songs in a new light for me and growing up I thought they were imaginative, clever and so full of originality much like movies and tv shows were. One particular artist whose work is everything good about the music videos of that time is Jonas Odell.

Jonas Odell has a strong reputation for his unique techniques at blending live action with animation. He shows that "music video" is infact an illustrative artform, by using computer effects to their full advantage Odell would bring certain designs as well as the song he works with to life. To anyone who wants to create "music videos" Odell is a cultural influence, someone with a distinct style you could recognize. So to show my appreciation I decided to look at the videos I  feel present Odell as an artist.

When Cartoon Network produced a series of music videos based on their shows, Odell directed this wonderful music video "My Best Friend Plank". Based on the show Ed Edd n Eddy, Odell captures everything that made the show so cherished and so heart filled. With it's retro colours, filters and superb scenes, Odell gives so much personality to a piece of wood much like Antonucci did. 

 However he brought himself to the mainstream with the video for artist Goldfrapp's Strict Machine. Though I'm not a fan of Goldfrapp, I can't deny how well Odell has utilized his directing skills; this video proves as a good example of how to introduce your abilities to the public. The use of effects and imagery is done perfectly setting the tone for more creative videos to come from Odell.

If I had to pick one music video that defines Odell's career it would be his music video for Franz Ferdinand's "Take Me Out". To me everything about this video captures what made indie music video so creative and original, there's so much visual wonders in this video that make the song even more iconic. Admit whenever you think of this song or the music of 2004 this is the first thing that pops into your head. There's so much of Odell's trademark use of combining live action with designs, the animation literally never misses a beat while also having a Terry Gilliam feel. In fact it makes you wonder what it would've been like if Gilliam stayed producing animation instead of moving to motion picture. Still this video is still as impressive and innovative as it was back then.

Another Odell music video I feel captures his unique style is his video for "Bang Bang" by The Audio Bullys. Going for a more modern look this video matches the song perfectly, with it's simple yet bright colour scheme and amazing effects this video is one for every music lover to admire.

Going for a more mature area of style, Odell's video for Feeder's "Feeling a Moment" proves to be even more impressive. I for one consider this to be one of the best songs of 2005 and it's this video that solidifies my opinion. With top notch cinematography and expressive effects this video stays nostalgic as well as timeless. 

His music video for cult artist Ida Maria's "I Like You So Much Better When You're Naked" goes for a graphic and fundamental vibe. You can sense a Warhol/ Lichtenstein influence here.

Returning to work with Franz Ferdiand, Odell once again creates a creative video much like he did 10 years ago. This shows Odell's ability to use retro imagery and designs and depict through well edited visuals.

But aside from music videos, Odell has also brought his techniques to short films such as Lies. A series of stories from certain people presented in 3 different styles. It's worth a look if you're fan of mixed animation.

Even if you're not a fan of the bands/artists Jonas Odell has worked with, it's hard to deny his unique take on the combination of audio and visuals. He has the ability to adapt an illustrative look to each film he has made, which is high priority for me to find in music videos (as well as film in general) If you're as interested in his resume as much as I am, than may I recommend you check out his Vimeo (http://vimeo.com/jonasodell) and come to your own conclusion. Looking back on his works makes me wonder what he'll make for yet to come but for now may I ask, what music music videos did you grow up watching? and I'll see you next time.