I know I haven’t been the first to post a Sigur Ros music video, but this has always been one of my favorites. This is a story without words as the only sound used is the music, and it features mostly tight and super tight close-up shots on faces as well as detail shots on buttons, shoes, and the environment. I think it’s a very beautiful and creative use of the environment of Iceland, as there are many natural springs that give off steam and tall grass that looks lovely close-up or far away. The costumes of the children have a naturalistic element that makes you think they might just be wild children, wandering the plains of Iceland.
The lighting is also remarkable considering the entire video is shot outdoors. It seems to be nearing sunset when the video starts and it is dawn towards the end, but you are able to tell due to the contrasting color change which seems to work well. While the majority of the shots are close-ups and only occasionally medium or long, there is an extreme long shot at the end that is absolutely magical. There isn’t much of a narrative model as we are simply on a journey with the mysterious wandering children, wondering where they are going, but the last few shots answer our question and make it completely worthwhile. All in all, it’s an ethereal piece of cinematic work.
Sigur Rós – Glósóli from Arni & Kinski on Vimeo.