The music video for Kendrick Lamar‘s “Count Me Out” is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking masterpiece that showcases the talented Oscar-winning actress, Helen Mirren, as Lamar‘s therapist. The predominantly black and white shots, with occasional bursts of colour, set the tone for the deep and introspective themes that the song touches upon, including personal growth, infidelity, ego, and resentment.
The video is split into three parts, with Lamar sharing his innermost thoughts on one side, while Mirren listens with a steady gaze, portraying emotions of empathy, shock, disappointment, and acceptance. The centre of the screen is occupied by vivid scenes that are being described, showcasing the rap superstar in various settings, including receiving a Covid test, putting on a fake smile for a toast, and looking seemingly disinterested at a board meeting. The presence of Lamar‘s partner, Whitney Alford, adds an additional layer of intimacy to the project. Additionally, Mirren‘s vocals have been used in transitional moments during Lamar’s tour set, building further on Lamar’s grandiose artistic vision and mythology.
Directed by Lamar and pgLang co-founder Dave Free, the “Count Me Out” music video is an introspective piece that stands in complete contrast to the clip for “We Cry Together,” which they previously worked on. Despite these contradictions, both videos feel true to Kendrick Lamar‘s personal and artistic style. The “Count Me Out” music video is a profound and captivating work of art that will leave viewers with a lot to ponder.
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