Breaking through the Monotony with Sunsleeper’s ‘Currents’
The music video “Currents” by the rock band Sunsleeper takes audiences on a visual exploration in everyday life revealing the transformative power of a chance encounter. Featuring Jack Milne and Maddex McArthur, the video crafted a narrative that explores the profound impact of breaking free from routine.
I recently interviewed Tyson Whitney, the Director of Photography for “Currents,” and he delved into the behind-the-scenes details of the production.
Whitney shared that the idea started with Megan and Jeff Mudgett, Jordan Talley, and Maci Brown. Their vision revolved around the theme of monotony, highlighting how encountering a special person can breathe new life into the mundane. Whitney and Megan collaborated to create the shot list and schedule.
When asked about his favorite part of production, Whitney mentioned the skateboarding scenes. Despite many shots not making the final cut, the fun and dynamic skateboard tricks added an element of excitement. Whitney expressed his appreciation for the time-lapse sequences, emphasizing how the shots effectively conveyed the struggle to break free from monotony. The team intentionally maintained a 90s-style vibe, incorporating props like an alarm clock and a rotary phone adorned with a Zumiez sticker.
Reflecting on the challenges faced during production, Whitney candidly admitted that coordinating people to arrive on time during the three days of shooting posed the most significant difficulty.
As for things he would do differently if given the chance, Whitney acknowledged a few adjustments but noted that they were constrained by budget limitations. He praised the collaboration within the team, emphasizing the exceptional work of Megan as the director.
For aspiring individuals interested in entering the production space, Whitney offered valuable advice: “film with your phone, build a reel, and start reaching out to potential collaborators.”
To stay updated on the team’s future projects, Whitney shared that Megan is currently freelancing as a Social Media content creator, with her Instagram handles @dearlymegs and @sweetfridayfilm. Whitney can be followed at @tysondirects, @shortroundfimz, and www.shortroundfilms.com. Two more music videos are slated for release at the end of January and the beginning of February, promising more creative endeavors from this talented team.