Music Video Analysis (Olivia Rodrigo - deja vu)

    The music video ''deja vu'' by Olivia Rodrigo constructs a dreamy and cinematic aesthetic that I take interest in and want to apply in my own project. It appeals to a teen and young-adult audience, especially fans of pop narratives centered around themes such as heartbreak, identity, and emotional authenticity. The video includes hyper-styled visuals, a mix of textures that create a feeling of nostalgia, as well as cinematic framing mirror. All these elements mirror the sensibilities of media consumption, especially amongst Gen Z.

    In terms of representation, Olivia Rodrigo portays a young woman that is dealing with jealousy and emotional repetition. The video showcases the presence of her ''double'', which indicates themes of self-comparison and insecurity. This really reflects on the way teenage femininity is often represented through stylised vulnerability, but also undermines expectations by giving the main character (Olivia) control over the narrative as we can notice that she observes, reflects and reclaims the story rather than being passive within the breakup trope. 

    Neale’s theory of repetition and difference can be applied in this case, as the video uses familiar breakup tropes but overthrows them by giving Olivia the narrative agency.

    The media language relies on a warm and lights colour grading, symmetrical compositions, layered costume styling and close-ups that are intercut that create a delicate, yet unsettling tone. The reccuring mirror images and dual character switching communicate the concept of emitional déjà vu visually rather than through performance alone. This builts a symbolic narrative that is easy to understand and follow instead of a literal one.

    Regarding institution, the video was released through Geffen Records, that tends to have cross platform visibility and high production values through star-driven marketing. It tends to have a cinematic and polished approach that supports Olivia Rodrigo's image as a global pop brand singer. 

    What I liked from this music video are the classy visual elements, such as the coloured dotted cup, red lipstick and dress. I also really liked the quality of cinematics and how delicate the video looks even if the song itself is quite coarse, it all goes well together. There are a few elements of mixed media that I have noticed and might want to recreate in my own music video project.

Here is a link to the video: Olivia Rodrigo - deja vu (Official Video)