Intertextuality

Intertextuality refers to the process of creating references to any kind of media text via another media text. It means for a type of media to pay homage to another media text.

I will be analysing three music videos of three known female pop singers which have used intertextuality in their work: Madonna 'Material Girl', Ariana Grande 'thank u next', Taylor Swift 'Bad Blood'.

Madonna, Material Girl

This music video makes an intertextual reference to Marilyn Monroe's performance of 'Diamond's Are A Girl's Best Friend' in the film 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes'.

There are clear comparisons between the two stars in terms of make up, outfit, hair. The music video's use of intertextuality is prominent, and apparent, and highly resembles Monroe. As Monroe was a recognised and respected Hollywood icon, Madonna is attracting that nostalgic audience and engaging with them. Madonna referencing Monroe also highlights her respect and admiration for the star.

Ariana Grande, thank u next

This music video is divided into four sections, referencing Mean Girls, Bring It On, 13 Going on 30, and Legally Blonde in turn.

It begins with interviewing people who discuss rumours about Grande. This is inspired by the beginning of Mean Girls, introducing Regina George. It continues visually naming the Burn Book which is also part of this movie, in which Ariana is seen writing positive messages for her exes. Moreover, the scene for the chorus she dances to“Jingle Bell Rock,” which is a parody of the Mean Girls talent show scene. She uses a powerful figure such as Regina George to show how empowered and confident she is.

The music video also references Bring It On, a 2000 cheerleading comedy film, and its famous dance-off scene. The reference was made to show the cheerful side and carefree narrative of the music video.

She also referenced her recent breakup with the film 13 Going on 30 in order to shows her vulnerability in this part of the video, despite the track’s light and forgiving theme.

Legally Blonde is the last reference in the music video.Ariana Grande recreates the “bend and snap” scene from the movie. This is a symbol for Grande’s attachment to her previous relationships, from which she is liberated, as seen in the last part of the video when she dances with everyone.

By using these female figures which are already known, Ariana is able to explain her feelings and the stages she's going through in her life (for example at the start of the music video, when they are doing the confession interviews, this references the way in which in her day-to-day people usually judge her and talk about her life decisions)

Taylor Swift, bad blood

There are numerous references to hit films during this music video. It features strong characters from Kill Bill, Hunger Games and Divergent. For example, the training sequence implicitly refers to the scene in which the tributes learn how to fight and survive in the arena in The Hunger Games.

Swift uses intertextuality in order to align herself with these strong female characters which mirrors her actions and emotions un real life.

Kill Bill reference

The Hunger Games reference

Divergent reference