CREATIVE CRITICAL REFLECTION

CCR Q1 - How do your products represent social groups or issues?

In Bayaan's "Teri Tasveer," the music video offers a deep dive into societal issues surrounding emotional expression and the struggle to confront one's past. Through the protagonist's emotional journey, the video delves into broader social themes concerning mental health, masculinity, and societal expectations, drawing parallels with various media and film theories.

At the heart of the narrative is an inventor who seeks solace within the confines of his workshop, symbolising the isolation and internal turmoil experienced by many individuals when grappling with their emotions. This portrayal resonates with Cultivation Theory, which posits that media representations can shape viewers' perceptions of reality. Here, the inventor's solitary existence reflects the societal stigma surrounding emotional vulnerability, reinforcing the notion that expressing emotions openly is often perceived as a sign of weakness.

The protagonist's attempt to deliver an apology letter serves as a poignant symbol of the universal desire for reconciliation and closure, shedding light on the societal pressure to adhere to traditional notions of masculinity and emotional stoicism. This aspect of the narrative aligns with Hegemonic Masculinity Theory, which explores how dominant cultural norms shape the construction of masculinity within society. The protagonist's struggle to express his emotions openly echoes the societal expectation for men to embody traits such as strength and emotional resilience while suppressing vulnerability.

The inadvertent act of leaving the letter behind in a moment of panic underscores the weight of unresolved emotions and the challenges individuals face in confronting their past. This pivotal moment reflects the societal stigma surrounding vulnerability and the fear of judgment for expressing one's emotions openly. Such themes resonate with Uses and Gratifications Theory, which suggests that individuals may seek out media content as a means of catharsis or social comparison when dealing with mental health issues.

The evocative cinematography and heartfelt performances effectively capture the essence of the protagonist's journey, resonating with viewers who may have experienced similar struggles with emotional expression and self-acceptance. The imagery, including the inventor's workshop and the projection device, serves as powerful metaphors for internal turmoil and the quest for closure, mirroring the principles of Cultural Studies Theory, which emphasises analysing media within cultural and historical contexts to understand how representations reflect societal norms.

Moreover, the music video prompts viewers to reflect on broader societal issues related to mental health and emotional well-being. By portraying the protagonist's journey towards acceptance and self-discovery, the video encourages conversations about the importance of destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting emotional authenticity. This aligns with Feminist Film Theory, which critiques the representation of gender in media and highlights the potential for subversion and resistance through alternative narratives and representations.

In summary, "Teri Tasveer" offers a compelling reflection on the societal pressures and expectations that hinder individuals from fully embracing their emotions. Through its emotive storytelling and thematic depth, the music video provides a platform for exploring complex social issues and advocating for greater empathy and understanding within society.

CCR Q2 - How do the elements of your production work together to create a sense of branding?

Throughout the development of my project, I maintained a consistent aesthetic that evolved organically while remaining true to my initial vision. Inspired by Bayaan's "Teri Tasveer" music video, I aimed to blend elements of cosmic aesthetics with vintage vibes, creating a cohesive and immersive experience across all platforms. This cosmic theme was reflected in the Digipak design and social media page, with a subtle interplay of light and dark representing the duality of life's challenges and opportunities. Utilizing grain and dust effects added a futuristic twist to the vintage elements, resulting in a unique visual style that resonated with the project's overarching theme.

Drawing inspiration from the raw authenticity of Bayaan's music video, I opted for a minimalist approach in "Teri Tasveer," reminiscent of Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You." By employing cinematic techniques such as dynamic camera movements and atmospheric lighting, I aimed to evoke emotional depth and immersion, enhancing the impact of the music and lyrics. This cinematic approach not only elevated the visual storytelling but also lent a sense of professionalism and polish to the music video, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer. The warm and rusty colour palette, along with Urdu typography, served as recurring motifs that tied the project together, from the music video to the Digipak and social media page. These elements not only added cultural authenticity but also contributed to the project's branding, creating a cohesive visual identity that resonated with audiences.

In addition to the visual elements, careful attention was paid to the styling of the protagonist, reminiscent of iconic figures from the American Old West. This vintage-inspired attire, coupled with Bayaan's logo in Urdu, further reinforced the project's cultural roots and brand identity. By weaving together these diverse elements, from cinematography to color schemes and styling choices, "Teri Tasveer" emerged as a holistic and immersive experience that captivated audiences and left a lasting impression. Through thoughtful integration and meticulous attention to detail, the project succeeded in creating a world of its own, inviting viewers to journey through the depths of emotion and storytelling.

CCR Q3 - How do your products engage with the audience?

The music video "Teri Tasveer" by Bayaan possesses a multi layered appeal that resonates with a diverse audience. Primarily, the music video's emotional depth and relatable themes of loneliness, despair, and the struggle for self expression make it particularly compelling for young adults and teenagers grappling with similar challenges in their lives. Drawing from media and film theories, the Uses and Gratifications theory posits that audiences actively seek out media content that fulfills their psychological and social needs. In the case of "Teri Tasveer," viewers may find solace and validation in seeing their own experiences reflected on screen, thus engaging with the video on a personal and emotional level. Additionally, the emotional engagement fostered by the music video aligns with the affective engagement theory, which suggests that audiences are drawn to media content that elicits strong emotional responses. By tapping into universal human emotions such as longing and despair, this music video captivates viewers and encourages them to invest emotionally in the narrative.

The universal nature of these themes ensures that the music video strikes a chord with viewers from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a sense of empathy and connection. Moreover, the incorporation of Urdu language and cultural elements adds an extra dimension to the music video's appeal, attracting viewers who are interested in exploring diverse cultural perspectives and experiences. This aspect of the video not only caters to Pakistani audiences but also engages with a broader global audience interested in discovering new sounds and narratives from different parts of the world. Drawing from Stuart Hall's Reception Theory, which emphasises the role of the audience in interpreting and ascribing meaning to media texts, "Teri Tasveer" invites viewers to actively engage with its cultural and linguistic elements, prompting them to reflect on their own cultural identities and experiences. This interactive engagement fosters a sense of cultural exchange and dialogue, enriching the viewing experience for audiences.

Furthermore, the cinematic style of filming and attention to detail in the visuals captivate audiences who appreciate artistic expression and craftsmanship in filmmaking. Drawing from Laura Mulvey's Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema, which explores the concept of the "male gaze" in film, the cinematography in "Teri Tasveer" challenges traditional gender roles and perspectives. By presenting the protagonist's internal struggles and emotions through a nuanced and empathetic lens, the music video invites viewers to empathize with the character's experiences rather than objectifying them for visual pleasure. This subversion of the male gaze not only enhances the emotional resonance of the narrative but also creates a more inclusive and empowering viewing experience for audiences of all genders. Overall, "Teri Tasveer" engages with its audience through its emotional depth, cultural relevance, and artistic craftsmanship, inviting viewers to connect with its themes and narratives on a personal and profound level.

CCR Q4 - How did your research inform your products and the way they use and challenge conventions? 

In the exploration phase for my music video "Teri Tasveer" , I delved into analyzing music videos within the genre to understand the typical conventions and storytelling techniques employed. Usually, music videos of this nature tend to lean towards narratives steeped in melancholy, often focusing on the emotional journey of the protagonist. Drawing inspiration from Lana Del Rey's "Video Games," I observed how the vintage-style visuals complemented the themes of longing and lost love. Similarly, Adele's "Someone Like You" served as a poignant example of cinematic storytelling, where raw emotions were conveyed through simple yet powerful visuals. Additionally, Johnny Cash's "Hurt" showcased the effectiveness of raw, intimate visuals in evoking nostalgia and reflection, providing valuable insights into crafting emotionally resonant narratives.

One of the primary challenges I encountered was the decision to depict the protagonist's emotional journey without direct vocal representation in the visuals. Instead, I opted for a storytelling approach, wherein the music served as the soundtrack to the protagonist's internal struggles. By positioning the camera predominantly behind the actor and employing immersive point-of-view shots, I aimed to immerse viewers in the protagonist's perspective, challenging conventional music video norms. Furthermore, eschewing flashy lights and modern visual effects in favor of warm, intimate lighting and minimalistic editing techniques helped maintain the vintage aesthetic and evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Moreover, I challenged conventions in costume design by opting for understated, old-western attire for the protagonist, deviating from the flashy, vibrant costumes typically seen in music videos. Similarly, the choice to feature the protagonist driving a modest Mini Cooper instead of a flashy sports car challenged stereotypes associated with heartbreak and social status. Additionally, subverting expectations by portraying the girl cheating with a dark-skinned man instead of the more commonly depicted white man added layers to the narrative, challenging stereotypes prevalent in mainstream media. The symbolic use of a burning candle to represent erasing memories added a poignant touch, subverting the traditional romantic connotations associated with such imagery. Through these deliberate choices, I aimed to engage audiences by presenting a narrative that defied conventions and offered a fresh perspective on themes of heartbreak and emotional turmoil.