Using Carol Vernallis' Theories

The theorist Carol Vernallis is most well known for her music video based theory. The four concepts of her works are focused on narrative, editing, camera movement and framing.

Narrative
Vernallis suggests that the video is a visual response the narrative, meaning whatever is happening on screen reflects the lyrics of the song. This is one of the aspects of Vernallis' theory that we based the music video around. The story in the song is of a couple who have broken up and want to get back together, seen in the lyrics 'sometimes I still need you'. The VHS narrative reflects these lyrics, showing how their relationship breaks down over the course of the video.

Editing
Vernallis states that a music video generally breaks the conventions of continuity editing. The editing should reflect that of the music, and should have a style unique to the track. This is noticeable in the NTLS - Heart Skipped a Beat track. The editing of the video is either synced to the beats or lyrics in the song, creating a clear link between the two. The video continuously breaks the 30 degree rule, graphic matches and extreme changes in the pace of editing.

Camera Movement and Framing
Establishing shots are one of the key features of a music video Vernallis states, along with close us shots. The style of framing should be distinctive to the video, and extreme shots or master shots are common. We use a number of shots in our NTLS music video, with the basis of our video being an ELS of the duo.