US film and tv director Bob Giraldi shares some memories of doing the ‘Beate It’ video back in the ’80s. He was also responsible for filming the Pepsi cola campaign and the ‘Say, Say, Say’ video with Michael and Paul McCartney.
“In the 80s, my first video ever–’Beat It’– Michael talking me into hiring two real-live LA gangs; the Crips and the Bloods– mortal enemies– to appear in the video– on stage next to each other playing themselves alongside dancers over-dressed as gang bangers– silly, clearly a difference– cops wanting to shut it down, Crips and Bloods pushing each other, taunting, nothing to do with movie-making–
I asked for one take to dance, hoping the music blasting through playback would settle everything down– ‘just one take,’ the cops demanding– Michael agreeing– ready to dance– real gangstahs standing on the sidelines,
Michael, bopping down the cardboard boxes, taking the actor gangstahs and dancing– everything stops, everyone mesmerized, stunned, the Crips and Bloods, eyes fixated, mouths open, realizing they’re witnessing something more macho than all their wars, crimes, vendettas– dancing by their brothers, most of whom were gay– and, most of whom have never have raised a hand against another human being in their lives.
Michael, at his best, creating peace wherever he went.”
Source: MJFC / Twirlit.com / Special thanks to Jan for bringing this to our attention!
Recent Comments