http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1nbvplgElw&f
         

Weird. "Forever Young" title reversed.

         

it should be called "Best Friends Forever." That would be even cuter.

         

GO FORTH.

         

Go Forth indeed, looks just like the Levis spots

         

Oh cool, you guys finally got that 99 Problems sequel that you wanted.

         

^haha

         

Hova's next video is black and white too and man, it's fucking killer.

         

Mark you raised the bar so high that it's not possible to top that video. Jay goes with the bread and butter, and what works for him. 99 problems created a dilemma among black and white hip hop videos that is hard to shake off. You can either go 180 degrees or embrace the aesthetic. Me thinks it should be used for a reason.

Now on it's merits the video is well handled, albeit lacks that passion that stands out in someone else's work. I dunno too much about Anthony Mandler but distinction is hard to come by, it's the lenser that gets the props here not the director.

According to Wikipedia he directed 21 (!) videos this year alone. Remember any one of the them? I recall Russian Roulette.

Now, that said, the gentleman has had a banner year so he must be doing right. But meh seems to be creeping in when thinking of his work. That's not being dismissive just well, there's other less visible work done that is better.

         

Mandler is one of the busiest, most respected directors working today, man. Sure, he may not be cool or kooky enough for this site but unlike most directors on here (and most if the people who comment I reckon too) he makes a good living from music videos. But he works mainstream where the $$ is, so a lot of artists he shoots for are also not cool enough for this site either.

I personally think his work is hit and miss but can be outstanding. JayZ 'DOA' was standout for a lot of people I know this year.

As for the B&W aesthetic, I can agree that after 99 problems, it gets generalized as a look and tone, this video included. But like I said, you wait until the next Jay-Z video and that will totally put that argument to bed.