How Melina Matsoukas Went From Music Video Visionary to “Queen and Slim” (Rolling Stone)

“For a decade and a half, Melina Matsoukas has helmed moody, swoony, sexy music videos that subvert expectations by turning an idol’s image inside-out — whether it’s re-imagining Snoop Dogg as a keytar-wielding lounge act (“Sensual Seduction”) or transforming Katy Perry into a grieving World War II widow (“Thinking of You”). Her strongest work, however, usually stars black women like herself — Rihanna, Solange, Beyoncé — who see themselves as fellow political-rebel artists.” – Source: Rolling Stone

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WHY THIS MATTERS:

Director Melina Matsoukas talks about her powerful, politically charged work and how she both is influenced by and hopes to give back to black women in the industry. “I am who I am because of black women,” she says. “We’re beginning to redefine our community — and hopefully our version of Hollywood.”