What Goes Around Comes Around Music Video Justin Timberlake

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Introduction

The music video for Justin Timberlake’s hit song “What Goes Around…Comes Around” is a visually stunning masterpiece that perfectly complements the powerful lyrics and emotional tone of the song. Released in 2007, the music video instantly captivated audiences with its compelling storyline, mesmerizing visuals, and impeccable production value.

Directed by Samuel Bayer, who is known for his work with iconic artists like Nirvana and Green Day, the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video tells a captivating story of love, betrayal, and the consequences that follow.

This article will delve into the background of the music video, provide a detailed plot summary, examine the symbolism and themes embedded within the visuals, analyze the cinematography and choreography, and discuss the reception and impact of this groundbreaking music video.

Prepare to embark on a journey through the world of “What Goes Around…Comes Around” as we dive deep into its artistic and narrative elements, exploring the reasons why this music video continues to resonate with fans and music lovers alike to this day.

Background of the Music Video

The music video for “What Goes Around…Comes Around” was released in 2007 as the third single from Justin Timberlake’s critically acclaimed album, “FutureSex/LoveSounds.” The song, written by Timberlake, Timbaland, and Danja, explores the theme of karma and the consequences that follow when one betrays another’s trust.

Directed by Samuel Bayer, the vision for the music video was to create a cinematic experience that would captivate viewers and complement the intensity of the song. Bayer, known for his visually striking and thought-provoking videos, was the perfect choice to bring Timberlake’s narrative to life.

The music video features a star-studded cast, with Scarlett Johansson portraying the female lead alongside Timberlake. Their on-screen chemistry adds an extra layer of depth to the storyline, enhancing the emotional impact of the video.

One of the notable aspects of the background story is the collaboration between Timberlake and Bayer. They previously worked together on the music video for “What Goes Around…Comes Around” spelled as WGWAG (1997) for N*SYNC, which featured a similar narrative of infidelity. This connection allowed them to build upon their previous success and create a more mature and visually stunning music video for Timberlake’s solo career.

The production of the music video took place in Los Angeles, with various locations serving as the backdrop for the dramatic storyline. The attention to detail and high production value can be seen throughout the video, with every scene meticulously crafted to create a compelling visual experience.

With its star-studded cast, powerful narrative, and high production value, the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video set the stage for a groundbreaking visual journey that would leave a lasting impact on viewers and solidify its place as one of the most memorable music videos of its time.

Plot Summary

The “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video revolves around a complex and emotionally charged love triangle. The video begins with Justin Timberlake and Scarlett Johansson attending a glamorous party together, portraying a seemingly happy and loving couple.

As the night progresses, the storyline takes a dramatic turn when Justin’s friend, played by Shawn Hatosy, confesses to Scarlett that Justin has been unfaithful to her. Deeply hurt and betrayed, Scarlett confronts Justin, leading to a heated argument between the two.

The plot then takes a mysterious twist as Scarlett disappears, leaving Justin in a state of despair and regret. Memories of their passionate relationship haunt him as he desperately searches for answers and tries to make amends for his actions.

Throughout the video, dream-like sequences and flashbacks provide glimpses into the intensity of their relationship and the moments of joy they shared. These sequences contrast with the dark and somber present reality, emphasizing the consequences of Justin’s infidelity.

The climax of the video features a visually stunning sequence in which Justin is seen driving at night, haunted by guilt and haunted by the image of Scarlett. The car spins out of control, symbolizing the chaos and destruction caused by his actions.

Ultimately, the video ends with a twist as Scarlett’s fate is revealed. It is suggested that she orchestrated her own disappearance to teach Justin a lesson and make him realize the consequences of his behavior. This unexpected turn of events leaves viewers with a sense of poetic justice and adds a thought-provoking layer to the narrative.

The plot of the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video is not only a compelling love story but also a cautionary tale about the repercussions of betrayal. It explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the cyclical nature of karma, leaving viewers with a powerful message about the importance of trust and loyalty in relationships.

Symbolism and Themes

The “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video is rich with symbolism and explores several profound themes that add depth and complexity to the narrative. Through visual cues and metaphorical elements, the video delves into the consequences of betrayal and the cyclical nature of karma.

One of the key symbols in the video is the recurring motif of circles and spirals. These shapes represent the cycle of actions and consequences, highlighting the idea that what one puts out into the world will come back around. The imagery of spinning wheels, swirling camera movements, and circular set designs reinforces this theme and creates a visual metaphor for the inescapable nature of karma.

Another prevalent symbol in the video is the use of water. Water is often associated with emotions, cleansing, and rebirth. In several scenes, water is seen dripping, flowing, or submerging characters, representing the emotional turmoil and the need for purification in the aftermath of betrayal. It also serves as a metaphor for the need to confront and face the consequences of one’s actions.

The video’s color palette further amplifies its themes. Dark and somber tones dominate the present-day scenes, reflecting the consequences and regrets that weigh heavily on Justin’s character. In contrast, the flashbacks are presented in vibrant and warm colors, symbolizing the happier times of their relationship and highlighting the stark contrast between past and present.

The “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video also explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the power of forgiveness. Justin’s character experiences intense guilt and remorse for his infidelity, as seen in his anguished expressions and desperate actions to find Scarlett. This guilt drives him to confront his mistakes, symbolizing a desire for redemption and a need to make amends.

Additionally, the video examines the power dynamics within relationships and the impact of trust. The betrayal portrayed in the video serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of trust and loyalty in maintaining a healthy and harmonious partnership. It prompts viewers to reflect on the consequences of their actions and the value of maintaining honest and faithful relationships.

Overall, the symbolism and themes in the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video add depth and layers of meaning to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple love story. Through visual metaphors and profound concepts, the video invites viewers to contemplate the consequences of their actions and the cyclical nature of karma.

Cinematography and Visuals

The “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video is a visual masterpiece that showcases impeccable cinematography and stunning visuals. Directed by Samuel Bayer, known for his distinct and innovative visual style, the video employs a combination of dynamic camera movements, creative framing, and atmospheric lighting to create a captivating visual experience.

One of the standout elements of the video’s cinematography is the use of various camera techniques to convey emotion and enhance the storytelling. From sweeping aerial shots to intimate close-ups, each shot is carefully crafted to immerse viewers in the narrative and elicit strong emotional responses.

The video also utilizes a mix of high-contrast lighting and shadow play to create a visually striking aesthetic. Dark and moody lighting accentuates the feelings of tension, betrayal, and remorse, while strategic placement of light and shadows adds depth and dimension to the scenes.

Visual effects play a significant role in the music video, further enhancing the storytelling and creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Transitions between past and present are seamlessly woven together through the use of dissolve effects, creating a sense of continuity and reinforcing the cyclical nature of the narrative.

The sets and locations in the video are meticulously designed to evoke a sense of luxury and glamour, reflecting the high-profile status of the characters. From opulent party settings to upscale interiors, the production design adds to the overall visual splendor of the video and contributes to the immersive experience.

In addition to the cinematography, the costume design and styling in the video are noteworthy. Justin Timberlake and Scarlett Johansson are impeccably dressed in elegant and sophisticated outfits, further accentuating the glamorous and upscale atmosphere of the video.

Overall, the cinematography and visuals in the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video are a testament to the artistic vision of Samuel Bayer and his ability to create a visually stunning narrative. Through the meticulous use of camera techniques, lighting, visual effects, and set design, the video engages viewers and elevates the storytelling to another level, making it a truly unforgettable audio-visual experience.

Choreography and Dance

The “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video features captivating choreography and dance sequences that add another layer of artistry to the overall visual experience. The choreography, created by renowned choreographer Marty Kudelka, perfectly complements the emotional intensity of the song and enhances the storytelling within the video.

The dance sequences in the video are used to convey the characters’ emotions, highlight their relationships, and symbolize the ups and downs of their journey. The choreography seamlessly blends contemporary dance elements with expressive movements, creating a unique and powerful dance language that resonates with the song’s lyrics and emotional tone.

One of the most memorable dance moments in the video is the passionate duet between Justin Timberlake and Scarlett Johansson. Their chemistry and synchronized movements provide a visual representation of their connection and the tumultuous nature of their relationship. The choreography masterfully captures the complexities of their emotions, alternating between moments of grace and intensity.

Throughout the video, the choreography serves as a narrative tool, portraying the characters’ inner turmoil and their struggles to reconcile with the consequences of their actions. The dancers’ movements convey a range of emotions, from frustration and anger to longing and remorse, enhancing the storytelling and evoking a visceral response from the viewers.

In addition to the duet, the video features group dance sequences that contribute to the overall visual spectacle. These moments showcase the strength and precision of the dancers, infusing energy and dynamism into the video. The synchronized movements and intricate formations create visually stunning tableaus that captivate the audience’s attention.

The choreography in the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video is elevated by the exceptional dancing skills of the performers. The dancers’ execution of the intricate movements and their ability to convey the emotional depth of the song through their physicality further enhances the impact of the video.

Overall, the choreography and dance in the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video not only provide visual entertainment but also contribute to the storytelling and emotional resonance of the narrative. The skillful execution of the choreography, combined with the captivating performances of the dancers, adds an extra layer of artistry and depth to the video, making it a truly impactful and memorable experience.

Reception and Impact

The “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video had a considerable impact upon its release and garnered widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. The video’s compelling storyline, stunning visuals, and powerful performances left a lasting impression on viewers and cemented its status as a standout entry in the music video genre.

Upon its release, the video quickly gained millions of views on various video-sharing platforms and became a trending topic of discussion. Its cinematic quality and thought-provoking narrative sparked conversations among fans about the meaning and symbolism embedded within the visuals.

Critics praised the video for its high production value and its ability to perfectly capture the emotional essence of the song. They commended Samuel Bayer’s directorial vision, highlighting his ability to create a visually stunning narrative that resonated with audiences.

The chemistry between Justin Timberlake and Scarlett Johansson was widely lauded, with many praising their performances for conveying the raw emotions and complexities of their characters with precision and authenticity.

The video’s impact extended beyond its initial release, as it continued to be discussed and analyzed by fans and music enthusiasts for years to come. It inspired countless fan theories and interpretations about the true meaning behind the narrative, further fueling its longevity in pop culture conversations.

The success and impact of the music video also extended to the song itself, as it helped propel “What Goes Around…Comes Around” to become one of Justin Timberlake’s most popular and recognizable hits. The video’s engaging visuals and compelling storyline added an extra layer of depth to the song, making it more than just a catchy tune.

Furthermore, the music video set a new standard for storytelling and production value in the industry. Its cinematic approach and meticulous attention to detail inspired other artists and directors to raise the bar when it came to creating visually captivating and emotionally charged music videos.

Overall, the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video made a lasting impact on both fans and the music industry as a whole. From its initial release to its enduring legacy, the video continues to be celebrated for its artistic merit, emotional resonance, and contribution to the visual storytelling medium.

Conclusion

The music video for Justin Timberlake’s “What Goes Around…Comes Around” is a masterful piece of visual storytelling that combines captivating visuals, powerful performances, and thought-provoking symbolism. Directed by Samuel Bayer, the video takes viewers on an emotional journey as it explores the themes of love, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s actions.

From the visually stunning cinematography to the meticulous choreography, every aspect of the video is carefully crafted to enhance the impact of the song and engage the audience on a deeper level. The use of symbolism, such as circles and water, adds layers of meaning and reinforces the cyclical nature of karma.

Through the stellar performances of Justin Timberlake and Scarlett Johansson, the video brings the narrative to life, evoking a range of emotions from viewers. The chemistry between the two actors adds authenticity to their characters’ turmoil and heightens the emotional impact of the storyline.

The reception and impact of the music video were significant, with praise from fans and critics alike. Its cinematic quality, intricate storytelling, and high production value set a new standard for music videos and inspired future artists and directors to push creative boundaries.

With its enduring popularity and continued exploration by fans and enthusiasts, the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video has secured its place as a timeless piece in the realm of music videos. Its ability to captivate audiences, spark conversations, and evoke emotions is a testament to its artistic merit and lasting impact.

As we reflect on the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video, we are reminded of the power of visuals in complementing and enhancing the message and emotions conveyed through music. It serves as a reminder of the importance of trust, the consequences of betrayal, and the cyclical nature of actions in our lives.

In conclusion, the “What Goes Around…Comes Around” music video is a visual and narrative tour de force that showcases the creativity and artistry of all those involved. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of music videos as a medium for storytelling and continues to captivate audiences with its thought-provoking themes, stunning visuals, and unforgettable performances.