Muse are back with their first release in four years - and immediately at full throttle - with Jared Hogan's sci-fi epic for Won't Stand Down. The video sees an ancient woman masked with vocalist Matt Bellamy's face, drawing power from a faceless army and transcending into an augmented being. From the futuristic art direction through to the seamless VFX and dynamic cinematography, the video is a tour de force of creativity which builds to a rip-roaring, intense climax. And the haunting silicone mask the lead character wears jumps right into the uncanny valley, and makes for an uncomfortable viewing experience in the best way. Like every Muse video, there is an important message bubbling under the surface, this time focused on standing up against bullies and oppressors. Filmed in Ukraine - producers MrMr teamed up with Shelter in Kiev for the production of the video - the concept perfectly encapsulates these themes.
Rob Ulitski - 18th Jan 2022