SPIKE JONZE’s Short
HomePod-Welcome Home FKA Twigs
Spike Jonze is a legend. He directed classic films like Her, Being John Malkovich, and Where the Wild Things Are. He’s been in the business for 37 years and earned a Best Original Screenplay Academy Award for Her. Jonze’s films are usually nostalgic or romantic representations of life, using experiences to shape the trajectories of his characters.
HomePod, a commercial for Apple, was released in 2018 and promoted a new music player. HomePod stars a young woman on her commute home through a crowded city; she is lost in the anonymity of the space as hosts of people pass her without a glance. Finally, the young woman arrives home to her apartment in a depressive funk, losing touch with her surroundings in the crowded and apathetic city space.
However, as soon as the music comes on (Anderson .Paak – “Till It’s Over”), she comes to life. While dancing, her apartment expands, and vibrant colors emerge from the drab walls of her room. The walls push in to reveal massive tunnels that cave inward and increase the room’s size. She steps into the new space and travels through a void decorated with colors and mirrors.
As the song picks up, the young woman’s dance moves become more elaborate, and Jonze’s vision for her new vivacity emerges. This previously lifeless and depressed woman now explodes with passion, humor, and confidence. Finally, the city disappears, and she is alone with her dancing reflection in a long hall of mirrors. Jonze’s theme of rejuvenated spirit in the heart of an oppressive and lifeless city, a common theme of his feature films, is alive in a fun way. This commercial is a ride, and the music is perfect for an upbeat presentation of Apple’s product. Watch HomePod now on YouTube.
