AN AWARD-WINNING music video has been made to explore life’s wonders, thanks to a Reading-based band.
Created by Last Picture Show, featuring Gareth Cooper, Matt Robinson and John Mullaney, The Joy and the Wonder portrays rejecting division and embracing the world.
First emerging as Ripchord in 2006, the video was put together in Summer 2019 after the band recorded the track in 2018.
Band member John Mullaney, and director of the shoot, said the idea for the music video came from when he was on a residential holiday
“There are few more magical places on earth than rural England in full bloom on a midsummer night and it’s a vibe that’s self-evidently at the heart of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which is one of my favourite plays and a subtle influence on the growing idea for the film.” Mr Mullaney said
“Channelling Matt’s soulful lyrics about rejecting division and embracing life’s joy and wonder, the central concept for the film was born right there and then.”
Mr Mullaney explained he wants as many people as possible to experience and share the film.
And he added viewers can enjoy its magical vibe, especially in the run-up to Christmas.
The band entered several competitions and went on to win Best Music Video 2021 at the Hollywood Art and Movie Awards.
“We were over the moon to win this,” Mr Mullaney said.
“It is so gratifying to have that industry recognition and to be able to describe Last Picture Show as an award-winning band.”
Actress Cassie Vallance starred as the leading role in the film and Mr Mullaney’s friend, who was on a film course, offered to help with some filming equipment.
“That generous access to professional gear, combined with the kind and exceptionally talented cast & crew we now had on board, meant we were all set to make a really professional looking film on a relatively shoe-strong budget,” he added.
Mr Mullaney explained the film shoot as a “gratifying experience”.
He said: “One of the best personal memories about the film is that so many people on the shoot told me it was one of the best experiences they’ve ever had.
“I’m super grateful to everyone involved who helped make the film happen.”
He said: “I keep getting asked when we’re going to do it again, I’ve written the sequel, which is ridiculously ambitious, but then so was Joy and Wonder, so who knows.
“It’ll take a lot to finance, but I hope we can eventually make that film happen as it would be spectacular.”
For more information, or to watch the video, log on to: last-picture-show.com
