Beyonce’s music video for “Countdown” is nothing like I expected it to be. The track is probably the most energetic on the album (“4”), and it sounds extremely contemporary, a brilliant mash-up of pop and hip hop that’s infectious enough to play in the club.
Watching the actual video for “Countdown” is sort of surprising as Beyonce decides to give it more of an old school look.
One thing I find particularly interesting about Beyonce’s videos is that it appears she makes a conscious effort to snatch imagery that’s typically reserved for iconic white entertainers and make it her own. So whether she’s rocking blond hair or decked out in a Wonder Woman outfit in the video for “Telephone,” Beyonce manages to makes a statement without having to release a statement.
The same is true for “Countdown,” where Beyonce transforms into Audrey Hepburn. From the hairstyles to the hats, Beyonce brings us back to the 1950s and 60s (can you spot the Diana Ross homage?), but keeps the video fresh and relevant enough to represent any era.
Due to the song’s thrashing beat, I would’ve imagined “Countdown” to feature strong dance choreography. But when you’re carrying a baby Jigga in your stomach, you probably can’t quite do the things you once did.
So while Beyonce dances in this, it’s minimal at best.
Still, “Countdown” is colorful and has some slick editing. And if you like watching 10 Beyonce’s on the screen at once (raises hand), then this is the video for you.
SCORE: *** out of *****
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