“Guilt” – Music Video for Commuter
Overview
We directed and produced the music video for “Guilt” by the post-punk band Commuter, overseeing the entire process from concept to final delivery.
The goal was to promote the single while shaping a distinctive visual identity that reflects the band’s aesthetic and performance style.
Concept & Creative Direction
The concept was built around the band’s idea of performing in silhouette, hiding physical features to emphasize mood and energy. I expanded this into a dark, abstract visual world that captures the track’s emotional intensity — exploring guilt, tension, and catharsis through light, space, and performance.
We chose a single-shot style set in the studio’s antechamber, using backlight silhouettes, strobe lighting, and a muted palette to create a mysterious, heavy atmosphere. The visual narrative was intentionally non-literal, using movement, stillness, and contrast to mirror the song’s psychological depth.
Production & Execution
A major challenge was achieving the lighting effects within the space. I designed a custom backlight setup combined with practical lights and LED sources, enabling the dramatic silhouettes and dynamic strobe effects we envisioned.
The shoot was completed in a single day (≈7 hours), supported by detailed pre-production planning and performance direction on set.
Post-Production & Outcome
Through tight editing and high-contrast color grading, I shaped the final video into a powerful visual statement. The result exceeded the band’s expectations, delivering a richer and more cinematic piece that strengthened their artistic identity and resonated with their audience.
My key contributions — from lighting design and performance direction to editing and grading — helped transform “Guilt” into a compelling visual extension of Commuter’s music.
