http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6MOKXm8x50
Fall Out Boy's 'Dance Dance' is set at an American prom (an intertextual reference), with them being the school band. There are two narratives within this video; one being the story of 4 'geeks' (the band members) at the prom and the other, a performance narrative.
The performance narrative aspect of this video generally, follows many stereotypes/characteristics of the punk rock/pop genre. Aside from the performance narrative (itself being the most prominent stereotype), the instruments are the main focus within the performance; a strong relationship between music and visuals is created by relating the shots with the instruments heard in the song at that particular moment. This can be clearly seen at 1.02, to which the bassist is shot playing his instrument in correlation to the dynamics of the bass in the song. Again, with the drummer and guitarist at 1.05, this editing technique portrays the importance of the instruments and song for the band as well as audience. Throughout the performace, the band look like they are enjoying themselves, representing the 'fun rebellion' of teen punk rock. This is further exhibited through the band not taking themselves to seriously (particularly at 1.22). However the strong focus upon instruments with shot hints that they still take their music seriously.
With reference to mise-en-scene, the band are wearing dark (prodominantly black) clothing such as shirts, ties and trousers; somewhat of a 'cool' take on the prom attire. Combined with the instruments, the band are portayed to be considerably rebellious in contrast to the bright clothes of the other people within the scenes.
A variety of camera angles are also used within the performance to create a fast paced, hectic, yet 'momentus' performance and representation of the band. In particular, there is an interesting low angle at 1.05 portraying the guitarist of high importance, highlighting the importance of the guitar solo within that part of the performance. Also, 0.54 and 1.58 show interesting centre shots but, from behind the band. Not only does this allow the audience to 'experience' what it is like to be in the band (creating a sense of intimacy) but also, a portrayal of carelessness and rebellion from the band. This is because, in terms of composition, their backs are quite literally, 'facing the audience'. As well as various close ups of the individual band members, a medium shot at 1.04 contains the whole band within one frame, represents the bands collective identity.
In terms of editing and post production, slow motion is used at 1.25 and 2.48 whilst the band members are playing their instruments. This 'captures the moment' of the performance, hinting that their music is so impactful that it can 'change time' as well as further strengthening their 'cool' portrayal. Quick cuts between the band/band memebers and audience represents the hectic, carefree nature of band.
Camera movement within the performance is limited. However, there is a lot of movement within the shots, such as the band jumping and spinning, appropriately translating the lyrics 'Dance dance'. This possibly portrays that the band are not confined to the still movement of the camera, again, linking to their 'rebellious' nature.
Interesting choice Megan! A very throough analysis of shots and editing makes the point of the ironic setting of highschool prom. You explain the way in which shot frame, movement and angle focus on the music and how these choices represent the band as rebellious - and the humour of the video. Good work.
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