In an exclusive interview with Janet Love, the director for Janet’s latest video has told us how he came to work with her and how he has hopes of choreographing something for her upcoming tour.
1) Firstly, congratulations on the Feedback video. Where did the idea come from?
Thank you. Janet gave me a lot of freedom to do what I wanted, although she told me that she was feeling very futuristic.
2) How did you come to work with Janet? Did ‘her’ people call ‘your’ people?
There is a video I made for a British band called Unklejam which seems to excite people in America.
When it was made, there was an article in the papers about how Justin Timberlake went crazy for the video on YouTube and asked them to support him on tour.
Then a little while after that, out of the blue I got the call from New York saying that she liked it, and wanted to talk about making a video together.
3) How closely did you work with Janet to formulate the idea behind the video?
I worked a little with her and her superhuman choreographer, Gil.
Janet is good at contributing her experience and outlook, but also knowing when to let go, which is a quality that I think the best bands and artists have.
4) How long did it take to shoot/edit?
The shoot took 2 very long days.
After that we had a deadline, with only a couple of weeks, but fortunately we had a really strong crew and post team.
Without them I would have been lost.
5) What was Janet like to work with?
She has an amazing aura. I’m very lucky to have worked with a magic person.
6) There are several different interpretations as to the meaning of the video. What’s yours?
I would love to know the interpretations! Post them on Janet Love and I’ll stop by!
7) Do you have any funny anecdotes from the set of the video?
Janet trusted me enough to pour 25 gallons of honey over her while she was suspended on wires.
The other kids in class really love when I tell them that one.
8) Is there a possibility of working with Janet in the future?
I definitely hope so.
I know that Gil, the choreographer is very keen for me to choreograph some songs for the tour.
He describes my style as ‘naive British animalism’, and says that its gonna freak out America.
9) Did you ever dream you’d be working with Janet?
Man, I’ll try to put this into perspective for you.
18 years ago me and my sister begged my mother to let us stay up and watch the premiere of Rhythm nation video on Channel 4.
18 months ago I was making videos for my friends bands, and talking about Michael and the whole Jackson family legacy and what a massive impact it has had on our lives
18 days ago I am on my cell phone affectionately bickering with Janet Jackson about why the sounds need to be louder.
10) Finally, I’m a KCL student myself and I know that you were at Goldsmith’s. What message would you have for any budding directors who aspire to reach the dizzying heights that you’ve reached.
Haha
Try to enjoy everything because everything is all there is.
