Relta directs the official short film for Kojey Radical's new album, charting the artist's self-appraisal at a crucial moment in his life through an ambitious twist on music video conventions. In Don't Look Down - inspired by the album of the same name - Relta builds a world around Kojey that is, on the face of it, highly music video-friendly. It starts with a house party, but the host and star of the show, is struggling to cope with the situation. What follows is impressive, not just for Kojey's performance - which is excellent - including his frankness about experiencing any mental fragility, but that the film continues to subvert expectations.In the film, Relta and team have made a real benefit with their imaginative approach to environment is reflecting Kojey's state of mind. The rooms of a house (or houses) are revealed to be part of a connected studio set. This is clear in the part of the film devoted to the track Rule One - which was also released as a separate video - but feels more meaningful as part of the bigger picture of the film, where the music video language of the dreamscape comes with a wider message. Relta also deals with a sizeable cast, almost throughout the film, who are playing the both the important people and minor figures in Kojey's life, which also highlights both the pressure and the rewards. It allows guest performers Bawo and Ghetts to fit seamlessly into this world. But ultimately it all serves to push the theme of Kojey's personal journey, and his embracing of real-world responsibilities, in a way feels both personal and entirely relatable. So this is an inspired and accomplished piece, and an excellent effort from all involved.
Rob Ulitski - 19 days ago
