Emma Stone Reunites with Yorgos Lanthimos for Surreal Music Video “Beth’s Farm”
Emma Stone is making waves in the artistic world once again, stepping back into the realm of music videos. However, this time, audiences can expect anything but the flashy choreography or bejeweled outfits typically associated with the genre. Teaming up with her frequent collaborators, director Yorgos Lanthimos and composer Jerskin Fendrix, Stone shines in an ethereal and surrealist short film for Fendrix’s latest single, “Beth’s Farm.” This collaboration showcases the unique synergy between the three artists, promising a visual experience that diverges from conventional music video formats.
The music video begins by featuring British-born Jerskin Fendrix as he explores what appears to be his childhood home and farm, setting the scene for an immersive narrative. Emma Stone then makes a striking entrance—falling from a tree clad in black rain boots and a burgundy barn jacket with a tousled pixie cut, instantly catching the viewer’s attention. Their interactions on the farm are playful yet poignant as they engage in various rustic activities like tending to animals and hauling hay bales. Notably, this visual storytelling is marked by moments of reflection and mirroring, adding layers to their whimsical yet symbolic connection.
A critical point in the video features a surreal scene where Stone lies "dead" on a country road, only to be later depicted driving a tractor with ease. Such a juxtaposition of life and death encapsulates the hauntingly beautiful essence of the visuals, underpinning themes of transformation and renewal. The finale enhances this spectrum, culminating in a vivid bonfire scene where Fendrix and Stone burn a heap of eclectic items—including a piano, furniture, and even fingernail clippings—before dancing wildly around the flames. This climactic moment embodies catharsis, as they subsequently take the ashes to a barn, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and art.
Their collaborative history is worth exploring, as Fendrix, Laithmos, and Stone have previously joined creative forces in acclaimed projects like Poor Things, Kinds of Kindness, and the upcoming Bugonia. Poor Things, based on Alasdair Grey’s novel, received significant accolades, including an Ivor Novello award for Fendrix and a Best Actress Oscar for Stone. Their synergy has not gone unnoticed, making this trio a celebrated presence within contemporary cinema and music. Discover more about their film successes on Stone’s official site.
The music video for “Beth’s Farm” serves as the lead single from Fendrix’s sophomore album Once Upon A Time… In Shropshire, set for release on October 10. Yorgos Lanthimos shared his excitement in a recent statement, emphasizing the joy of reuniting with Emma Stone and their creative team to contribute to Fendrix’s artistic vision. “It was lovely to team up again with Emma and a number of people that we have been working with for quite a while,” he stated, highlighting the importance of this collaboration within their artistic community.
As Stone, Lanthimos, and Fendrix continue to inspire audiences through their innovative storytelling, “Beth’s Farm” stands as a testament to their shared artistic philosophy. This music video merges visual art with music, showcasing not only their talents but also the emotional depth that resonates with viewers. For fans eager to explore more of Fendrix’s work and the intricate narratives they construct together, keep an eye on the release of his album and their future projects as they redefine the boundaries of creative expression.
In conclusion, Emma Stone’s return to the music video sphere alongside Yorgos Lanthimos and Jerskin Fendrix creates something entirely unique—a blend of surreal visuals and potent storytelling. “Beth’s Farm” is not just a music video; it’s an artistic exploration that draws us into the complexities of life, creativity, and human connection. To delve deeper into the intricacies of their collaboration and witness the final product, be sure to catch “Beth’s Farm” and mark your calendars for Fendrix’s album release on October 10.