Revolution is one of the most powerful words in any thinking person’s vocabulary. But what it means to you, to me and to us really depends on what type of action is being associated with it. In this case, we made a video to highlight the song ‘Revolution’ by the Napalm Clique. So let’s talk about what it means.To begin with, this is not your average rap video. The filmmakers on ‘Revolution’ made the most of a micro budget by getting the story straight and building from there. Using the Napalm Clique’s lyrics as a blueprint, the team agreed on a simple narrative structure that would engage the viewer as if they were a student in a classroom. The lesson plan? Empowerment and revolution of the mind. From there it was possible to make the most of a free location, a handful of rented lights and a great selection of found footage in post production.

The video would not have been possible without the support of young, inspired minds within the Oakland arts community. Nor would it have been possible without the powerful wisdom of the older generations. And now that the video has hit the film festival circuit, the worldwide community of artists, thinkers, and activists can take a look. If you are in the Los Angeles area, mark your calendar for June 8th, the awards ceremony of the Hollywood Black Film Festival, when ‘Revolution’ will be judged alongside ‘Give it to Me’, directed by Timbaland and featuring Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado. The themes of the two songs and videos are miles apart, reflecting the complicated state of hip hop today. Don’t miss your chance to voice your opinion!

Posted in festivals, history, the song, the video |