In this year's Oscars nominations, alongside the well-known films like Barbie and Oppenheimer, there is one that has surprised many film fans. 'The Zone of Interest,' a Holocaust movie, has received five nods, including Best Director and the highly coveted Best Picture gong. What's even more surprising is that the director, Jonathan Glazer, is also known for his work in classic adverts and music videos.
'The Zone of Interest,' loosely adapted from a 2014 novel by the late author Martin Amis, has already been named the best film of the year by the Los Angeles Film Critics Association. The film follows the story of Auschwitz commandant Rudolf Höss and his wife Hedwig as they strive to build a dream life for their family near the camp.
Produced by the company A24, known for their critically acclaimed films like 'Everything Everywhere All At Once,' 'Talk to Me,' 'The Lighthouse,' and 'Lady Bird,' 'The Zone of Interest' is scheduled for release in the UK on Friday.
Jonathan Glazer's filmography includes other notable feature films such as 'Under the Skin,' 'Sexy Beast,' and 'Birth.' However, it is his work in directing music videos and commercials that brings even more recognition to his craft. Let's take a look at some of Glazer's other notable works:
1. Jamiroquai - 'Virtual Insanity' (1996) Glazer directed the mind-bending video for Jamiroquai's funky hit 'Virtual Insanity.' In a documentary clip, Glazer explained that although the video appeared visually complex, it was actually created using low-tech methods.
2. Massive Attack - 'Karmacoma' (1995) Inspired by Stanley Kubrick's film 'A Clockwork Orange,' Glazer directed the music video for Massive Attack's track 'Karmacoma.' This visually intriguing video paid homage to the dystopian themes of the iconic film.
3. Cadbury's - 'Temptation' (1996) Glazer directed this commercial, featuring a peculiar devil character played by Denis Lavant, for Cadbury's chocolate. The ad was considered wild even by Cadbury's standards for its unique and unconventional approach.
4. Radiohead - 'Karma Police' (1997) Glazer directed the broody car ride video for Radiohead's track 'Karma Police,' taken from their album 'OK Computer.' The video perfectly complemented the melancholic tone of the song, capturing the viewer's attention.
5. Guinness - 'Surfer' (1999) Considered one of the greatest adverts of all time, Glazer's 60-second ad for Guinness features surfers conquering a massive wave, only for gigantic horses to emerge from the water. In a poll conducted by Channel 4 and The Sunday Times, it was voted the 'Best ad of all time' in 2000.
6. Channel 4 Idents (2015) Glazer also contributed to the Channel 4 brand identity with a series of idents to be played before certain programs. These idents included a time-lapse clip of people foraging through rubble, a switch glowing fluorescent colors, and black and white footage of a bug. If you've seen any of these clips, you've witnessed Glazer's creative vision.
Jonathan Glazer's diverse body of work encompasses thought-provoking films, captivating music videos, and unforgettable commercials. His talent for visual storytelling has earned him recognition in various artistic mediums. As 'The Zone of Interest' takes the spotlight in this year's Oscars, it is clear that Glazer's unique approach continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
