'Reveal' Joshua Thew | Music Video | Arri 416 & Zeiss Ultra 16 14mm | Kodak Double X 16mm

Working on this project was a dream. Director Danny Lim approached me with a beautifully simple concept for Joshua Thew's stripped-back, minimal ballad. We decided to shoot on 16mm film, embracing the constraints of black-and-white Double X stock and the precision of a single prime lens to amplify the song's raw emotion.

We would have loved to shoot with a dolly or steadicam, but budget constraints led us to shoulder-mount the camera and use a wheelchair for slow tracking shots. DIY filmmaking at its finest.

Director Danny Lim
Director of Photography Fraser Stephen
Focus Puller Fabio Olgiati
Loader Nina Mangold
Gaffer Ollie Craig
Editor Danny Lim
Colorist Danny Lim
Production Good advice Studio / Fraser Stephen
Equipment Rental Emmyland
Film Cinelab

From Notion Magazine (Gabriel Mealor-Pritchard):
From ballet to ballads, take a soulful musical journey and the release of 'Reveal.'

Joshua Thew, a London-based artist and songwriter, is making waves with his evocative sound and heartfelt lyrics with the release of his latest track ‘Reveal’. Born in Hertfordshire, Joshua’s artistic journey began not with music, but on the stage of the New York City Ballet, where he danced for a decade. A severe back injury in 2016, however, redirected his path, propelling him into the world of music.

Initially gaining attention through jazz covers, Joshua Thew developed his distinct voice, one characterised by its power and versatility. His sound is influenced by legends such as Joni Mitchell, Donny Hathaway, and George Michael, resulting in a soulful blend that is rich, vulnerable, and tinged with melancholy, all themes deeply explored within his newest single.

Joshua’s latest EP, Endlessly, delves deep into themes of heartbreak and new love, delivered through sensual, atmospheric grooves and introspective lyrics. Among its tracks, the standout single ‘Reveal’ encapsulates the central theme of the EP. The piano ballad feels like the calm after the storm, akin to reaching the top of a steep hill and taking a moment to appreciate the journey. It’s an intimate conversation with its subject, reflecting on mutual struggles and the choice to embrace vulnerability for deeper intimacy.

Since 2018, the rising star has collaborated with producer Cale Hawkins, known for his work with artists like Charli XCX and Amber Mark. Their partnership began with Joshua Thew’s debut EP, Quiet Words, which helped establish his following and earned media attention from BBC Introducing.

Joshua Thew’s transition from ballet to music is a testament to his resilience and artistic versatility. With his soulful sound and emotionally charged performances, he continues to captivate audiences, marking him as a significant new voice in the music industry.