I know what you’re thinking … “Another list? Jeez!” But, whatever. It’s combining two of the things I like most … music and movies. Growing up in the 80s and on MTV, the channel was always on when I was home. There was something alluring about waiting for your favorite song/video to come on and just watch it in awe. Some you watched because you loved the song, others you watched the video on mute just for the cinematic experience. I don’t even know what MTV airs anymore, since giving up on it in the mid to late 90s. Yes, there are a ton more than this to choose from (hell, David Fincher and Spike Jonze have done more than 100 combined). Here are some of the best/my favorite/random music videos directed by some of the greatest filmmakers out there. Some you might not even have known about.
These are the 100 Greatest Music Videos Directed by Famous Filmmakers.
10. Kylie Minogue – Come Into My World | (2002)
Directed by Michel Gondry (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, The Green Hornet)
In typical Michel Gondry form, he blows your mind with this seamless “continuous shot” video. And who wouldn’t want multiple Minogues in their world?
Other videos he’s directed: Beck – Cellphone’s Dead; The White Stripes – The Hardest Button to Button
09. Nirvana – Heart-Shaped Box | (1993)
Directed by Anton Corbjin (Control, The American)
Watching this video, you knew Fincher was destined to be a great filmmaker.
Other videos he’s directed: Joy Division – Atmosphere; Rollins Band – Liar
08. Nine Inch Nails – Closer | (1994)
Directed by Mark Romanek (Static, One Hour Photo)
Inspired by the artwork of Joel-Peter Witkin, this video was also super controversial when it came out. Here’s the Director’s Cut.
Other videos he’s directed: Weezer – El Scorcho; Nine Inch Nails, The Perfect Drug
07. Faith No More – A Small Victory | (1992)
Directed by Marcus Nispel (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Friday the 13th)
Hands down one of my favorite Faith No More videos. And Nispel’s remakes weren’t too shabby either.
Other videos he’s directed: Fugees – Ready or Not; Spice Girls – Spice Up Your Life
06. Billy Idol – Cradle of Love | (1990)
Directed by David Fincher (The Game, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo)
Good lord this video was wrong in all the right ways.
Other videos he’s directed: Don Henley – The End of the Innocence; A Perfect Circle – Judith
05. Weezer – Buddy Holly | (1990)
Directed by Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich, Her)
Weezer performing at the original diner Arnold’s Drive-In from Happy Days? Genius.
Other videos he’s directed: Rocket From The Crypt – Ditch Digger; The Breeders – Cannonball
04. Johnny Cash – Hurt | (2003)
Directed by Mark Romanek (One Hour Photo, Never Let Me Go)
Hailed by fans and critics as the most personal and moving music video ever made. Stunning imagery.
Other videos he’s directed: Lenny Kravitz – Are You Gonna Go My Way; Eels – Novacaine for the Soul
03. Childish Gambino – This Is America | (2018)
Directed by Hiro Murai (Guava Island)
One of the best new videos in this last decade.
Other videos he’s directed: Death Cab For Cutie – Crooked Teeth; Massive Attack – Take It There
02. Michael Jackson – Thriller | (1990)
Directed by John Landis (Animal House, Trading Places)
After seeing An American Werewolf in London, Jackson contacted Landis to collaborate on this video.
Other videos he’s directed: B.B. King – My Lucille; Michael Jackson – Black or White
01. Fatboy Slim – Weapon of Choice | (2001)
Directed by Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich, Her)
I don’t care what you say, Christoper Walken dancing is just the greatest.
Other videos he’s directed: Dinosaur Jr – Feel the Pain; Ween – Freedom of ’76
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What did you think of the selection overall? What are some of your favorite music videos directed by filmmakers?
