FILM TYPE:

Short

SYNOPSIS

"Beyond the Fence" is not just a music video; it's an experimental canvas where music, lyrics, and AI converge to create a new form of artistic expression. It challenges traditional video-making, offering a glimpse into the future of digital artistry in the music industry. This video is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolving relationship between technology and creativity.

DIRECTOR BIO

Josiah James: A Blend of Humor, Artistry, and Innovation

Born and residing in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, with his wife and two beautiful children, Josiah James is a multifaceted creator whose life is as vibrant and dynamic as his art. With a degree in Visual Communications and a day job as a successful Software Engineer at a global advertising agency, Josiah seamlessly bridges the worlds of technology and creativity.

Josiah's journey into the realm of filmmaking began in childhood when a video camera entered his home as a prize his father won. This event sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling through moving images. From creating humorous home videos, including reenactments of childhood antics, to founding Lehigh Valley's inaugural improv troupe, The Associated Mess, Josiah has always found joy in making people laugh.

His comedic talents extended to stand-up, where his unique dry humor and sharp wit have delighted audiences. Professionally, Josiah has left his mark on various projects, including animated music videos and the pilot episode of "Just Joking," which brought his stand-up routines to animated life.

Josiah's directorial flair shone brightly with his short film "A Rare Dinner," which garnered him the Best Director award at the 2023 Allentown Film Festival. Now, with "Beyond the Fence," an experimental music video fully realized through AI, Josiah steps into the future of filmmaking, showcasing the exciting possibilities of technology-driven art.

Josiah is a rare amalgamation of an artist, technologist, and comedian, crafting experiences that resonate with audiences in unexpected ways. His work is like fine wine – it may take a moment to appreciate, but its richness and depth are undeniable. With ambitions to feature his films in prominent festivals like Cannes or Sundance, Josiah James is a visionary artist at the frontier of where art and technology converge, eager to share his unique perspective with the world.

DIRECTOR STATEMENT

In an era where technology and art are increasingly intertwined, "Beyond the Fence" represents not just a music video but a foray into the uncharted territories of AI-driven creativity. As a director, my journey has always been about pushing boundaries, blending humor with art, and exploring new mediums. With this project, I aimed to dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence, testing its limits and capabilities in interpreting and visualizing music.

"Beyond the Fence" is an experimental endeavor that marries the poignant lyrics of Iron and Wine with the literal and imaginative power of AI. The process was as much about discovery as it was about creation, using tools like MidJourney's Expand and Runway's animation features to craft a visual narrative that is both unexpected and thought-provoking. The literal interpretation of the lyrics through AI not only challenges conventional music video storytelling but also showcases the potential of AI as a collaborative partner in the creative process.

This project is a testament to the possibilities that lie at the intersection of technology and art. It challenges us to reconsider our understanding of the creative process, inviting us to embrace the new and the unknown. As we stand on the cusp of a new era in filmmaking, "Beyond the Fence" is a glimpse into the future—a future where AI and human creativity combine to create art that is as surprising as it is beautiful.

As a director, my goal is to continue exploring this fascinating confluence of technology and artistry. With "Beyond the Fence," I invite you to step into a world where the boundaries of creativity are constantly expanding, where art is not just created but discovered, and where each frame invites you to look beyond the conventional and embrace the extraordinary.