Miley Cyrus Celebrates Her Sexual Self in ‘Something Beautiful’
In a landscape where modern pop stars often embrace their sexuality with irony or a touch of cool detachment, Miley Cyrus boldly strays from the norm. With her visual album, "Something Beautiful," co-directed with Jacob Bixenman and Brendan Walter, Cyrus takes us on a raw and unfiltered exploration of eroticism and self-expression.
The Art of Self-Expression
At the Tribeca Festival, where the visual album premiered, audience members erupted in applause at every sultry glimmer from Cyrus. Each scene is a celebration, not just of her own sexuality, but of a time when flaunting one’s body was met with less societal hesitation. Cyrus’s intention is clear: she yearns to rekindle an era where sexual freedom reigned supreme.
A Musical Journey Through Time
Cyrus’s music in "Something Beautiful" is anything but ironic. It echoes a hooky, big-beat sound reminiscent of another era, almost taking cues from the likes of Bruce Springsteen. In tracks like “Easy Lover,” she provocatively strips down, then struts through a deserted Hollywood lot clad in extravagant outfits, reminding us that this is just a crafted image—an artful façade.
Embracing Nostalgia
Nostalgia permeates the visual album, drawing inspiration from the vibrant aesthetics of the ‘80s. There are nods to the classic films that defined a generation, combining influences of "Flashdance" with the rock vibes of Lita Ford. In the visually arresting video for “Walk of Fame,” Cyrus dances past the iconic stars of Hollywood Boulevard, every turn and pose dripping with confidence and allure.
Climax of Empowerment
The pinnacle of this visual experience arrives with “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved.” Set in an atmospheric warehouse loft, Cyrus teams up with supermodel Naomi Campbell to embody female empowerment. The intensity of their performance obliterates the need for anyone else, showcasing that their sexual confidence requires no validation.
A Narrative of Self-Discovery
While some critics noted the absence of a traditional narrative, arguing for comparisons to Beyoncé’s cinematic gem “Lemonade,” "Something Beautiful" narrates a more personal story. It intricately weaves together Cyrus’s evolving relationship with sexuality and fame rather than adhering to a linear plot.
The Reflection of Fame
Throughout this artistic endeavor, Cyrus channels a modern-day Faye Dunaway, albeit with less mystery and more transparency. "Something Beautiful" serves as a mirror reflecting her journey towards embracing her sexual identity—and inviting the audience to join. The closing track, “Give Me Love,” encapsulates the overarching theme of this project, emphasizing that the audience is both a witness and a participant in Cyrus’s celebration of sex and power.
Conclusion
In "Something Beautiful," Miley Cyrus not only entertains but also challenges societal norms. Through her unapologetic celebration of sexuality, she positions herself as a vibrant icon of self-liberation. This visual album is more than just music videos; it’s a bold statement of empowerment, an homage to nostalgia, and a testament to embracing one’s true self in a world of curated identities.
For more on Miley Cyrus’s artistry and influences, check the latest reviews on platforms like Variety.
