Hit machine Rihanna released the video for her latest single ‘S&M’ this week. The video has sparked a wave of controversy for it’s sexually charged imagery…as if the lyrical content wasn’t enough! Eleven countries have banned its airplay and You-tube have enforced an age restriction.
The video is directed by Melina Matsoukas, who directed Rihanna’s ‘Rude boy’ in her 2009 ‘Rated R’ era (This is one of my favorite videos). She has also worked the likes of Solange Knowles, Keri Hilson, Ciara and Missy Elliot.
In an interview Matsoukas had this to say in her defense…”I mean, the song is called ‘S&M’!” she laughed. “So I think that the imagery follows suit with what the song is. I wouldn’t play down the imagery for a song that’s so strong. It makes sense to develop it further and really take it there. So if they don’t want to play it, [fans] can watch it somewhere else.”
Without sounding like an old prude, I would definitely say this is not one for the kiddies. Apparently MTV are contemplating editing it for daytime viewing.
I cant help but compare the video to the work of my favorite fashion photographer David Lachapelle. Judge for your self…homage or plagiarism?
