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The Plan
Option 1: music promotion package A promotion package for the release of an album, to include a music video (major task), together with an official social media page for the band or artiste(s) and a digipak for the album’s release (minor tasks).
Option 2: film promotion package A promotion package for a new film, to include two trailers (major task), together with an official social media page for the film and a poster for the film (minor tasks).
Option 3: documentary package An extract from an original documentary TV programme, lasting approximately five minutes (major task), together with an official social media page for the documentary and a magazine article for the documentary (minor tasks).
Option 4: short film package A short film in its entirety, lasting approximately five minutes (major task), which may be live action or animated or a combination of both, together with an official social media page for the short film and a postcard advertisement for the film at a short film festival (minor tasks).
When presented with four distinct pathways for my project, I meticulously evaluated each option before deciding on Option 1: creating a music video. This decision was not made lightly but was guided by a lifelong affinity for art in all its forms, including cinematography, photography, editing, illustration, 3D design, graphic design, and playing around with softwares- elements that fuse seamlessly in the realm of music videos. I have always felt a profound connection to the artistic and technical aspects of video production, and I believe that this medium offers the most expansive canvas for my creative expression. Music videos are not merely promotional tools but are powerful platforms for storytelling and artistic innovation. They merge the auditory delight of music with the visual impact of cinematography, crafting an immersive experience that captivates the senses. This synthesis of sound and visuals aligns perfectly with my passions, allowing me to weave my artistic vision into intricate narratives that resonate with viewers. Plus, who can resist the chance to say, “Yes, that surreal scene with the illustrations as all my idea, I did it alllllll myself!”? Moreover, music videos excel in their unparalleled creative freedom. Unlike traditional films or documentaries constrained by lengthy, predefined and hence confined narratives and structured formats, music videos thrive on brevity and the freedom to experiment. They encourage a bold exploration of visual styles, editing techniques, and non-linear storytelling, offering a unique opportunity to challenge conventional norms and push creative boundaries. This flexibility is crucial for me, as it allows me to express my vision in dynamic and innovative ways, ensuring each project not only communicates a story but also expands the possibilities of visual media. It's like being given a box of crayons and a wall no one will yell at you for drawing on. Confident in my foundation in both music and visual arts, I am eager to leverage this opportunity to create something truly unique. By integrating my technical skills with my creative aspirations, I aim to produce a music video that is not only visually engaging but also emotionally resonant, reflecting the depth and diversity of human experience. And if all goes according to plan, it’ll be something that gets more replays than that Liah Halton video on TikTok!
I am writing to propose a deeply personal project—a music video for the track "Has To Be" by CapzLock. This song captures an emotional journey that is deeply intimate and personal to me, as I stumbled upon this artist's music at a very vulnerable phase of my life. The vision for this music video is to craft a narrative that not only resonates with many but also challenges and expands the representation of hijabis in media. The choice of "Has To Be" for a music video stems from its profound narrative on internal struggles. The track explores the tumultuous landscapes of unresolved trauma, PTSD, imposter syndrome, the complexities of emotion encapsulated in female rage and a nostalgic feel. It’s a narrative that requires a raw, unfettered portrayal, which I believe can be most authentically expressed through my own experiences. To truly capture the song’s essence, I have decided to step in front of the camera as the lead actor. The decision is twofold: firstly, the song is an echo of my own vulnerabilities and strengths, painting a picture that I can depict with genuine emotion; and secondly, it aligns with my commitment to authenticity. I feel that as the songwriter and performer, I am uniquely positioned to convey the depth of emotion required for the video’s narrative arc. As a new hijabi, I am acutely aware of the underrepresentation of hijabi women in mainstream media. This video is an opportunity to challenge that void and showcase that artistry has no barriers. It is imperative for me to convey that hijabi women can be dynamic actors and performers. This music video will serve as a testament to the fact that one can evoke powerful performances and tell compelling stories while maintaining modesty and adhering to one's personal values and beliefs. The music video will be a beacon of modest artistry, dispelling the notion that vulgarity is a requisite for profound storytelling. The narrative will be crafted respectfully and will maintain the dignity of the attire while still expressing the raw and unfiltered emotions that the song demands. This project is not just a music video; it's a statement that art transcends superficial barriers and that modesty in expression can coexist with deep emotional portrayal. The "Has To Be" music video aims to be a beacon of change, advocating for more inclusivity and diversity in the portrayal of artists in media. The decision to be both behind and in front of the camera is a deliberate choice to ensure the authenticity of the message and to inspire others who have yet to see themselves represented. With this video, I aim to bring a powerful message to life, breaking stereotypes, and hopefully paving the way for more artists who choose to embrace modesty in their creative expressions.
ACTOR RELEASE FORM
I, Asad Abdullah Saeed, hereby grant to Maham Saeed the right to photograph me and record my voice, performances, poses, actions, plays, and appearances, and to use my photograph, silhouette and other representations of my physical likeness for her music video.
By signing below, I acknowledge my commitment to adhere to the agreed schedule prior to my engagement to the best of my ability. Additionally, I agree to make myself available for reshoots if necessary, to the best of my ability.
I hereby certify and affirm that I have read the aforementioned agreement and fully comprehend its meaning and implications.
NAME: Asad Abdullah Saeed
SIGNATURE: Asad
ACTOR RELEASE FORM
I, Mikael Ali, hereby grant to Maham Saeed the right to photograph me and record my voice, performances, poses, actions, plays, and appearances, and to use my photograph, silhouette and other representations of my physical likeness for her music video.
By signing below, I acknowledge my commitment to adhere to the agreed schedule prior to my engagement to the best of my ability. Additionally, I agree to make myself available for reshoots if necessary, to the best of my ability.
I hereby certify and affirm that I have read the aforementioned agreement and fully comprehend its meaning and implications.
NAME: Chaudhary Mikael Ali
SIGNATURE: Miki