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November 1994, Week 3

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Subject:
From:
"Russell A. Potter" <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Film and TV Studies Discussion List <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 21 Nov 1994 12:04:34 CST
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----------------------------Original message----------------------------
 
A friend up mine just lent me a copy of what I think is just about
the most innovative and astronishing video I've ever seen.  The
running title is "Emergency Broadcast Network," which opens the
tape with a pseudo-EBS warning message over aerial shots of running
antelopes and elephants.  The video then proceeds to a series of
precision-edited music videos, clocking in with as many as 200
images per minute, using all kinds of collage techniques and
drive-by images, all precisely matched to a dance breakbeat.  The
videos vary from hip-hop style to hardcore techno.  Some favorite
moments: Harrison Ford, in a clip that appears to come from _Clear
and Present Danger_, yelling "Get Down! Get Down!" (as in Jungle
Boogie), with an intercut of Mariah Carey screaming (using a horn
sample from the JB's "The Grunt").  President Bush declaring
"We ... will ... we will . . rock you!"  Dan Quayle extolling
the importance of "Watching more television."  Synchronized
howitzers blaring out 120 beats per minute.  The whole things has
to be seen to be believed.
 
I'm curious if anyone on these lists knows anything more about
the makers of this video.  For one, I'd guess that they are sliding
a limbo-dance under copyright law, as just getting the clearances
for these things would take years and a huge budget.  Yet, as with
hip-hop, I think this video makes a strong argument for making it
easier to obtain tiny snippets of video for use in a densely collaged
work of art.
 
I've heard a lot of hype about "Television, or Life Among the Bees,"
but this video puts it to shame.  Seeing it reminds me of the first
time I heard Public Enemy's "Nation of Millions" == my eyes, and
my ears, will never perceive the same again.
 
 
 ========================================================================
"Convictions are more dangerous enemies of truth than lies"
                                                    --Friedrich Nietzsche
=======Russell A. Potter========<[log in to unmask]>=====================

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