Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing” music video, released in 1983, isn’t just a visual accompaniment to a hit song; it’s a vibrant, unforgettable piece of 80s pop culture. Directed by Russell Mulcahy, the visionary behind many iconic music videos of the era, including Duran Duran’s “Rio,” “I’m Still Standing” shares a similar stylistic DNA – a celebration of color, movement, and unapologetic exuberance. While the video might not boast a complex narrative, its charm lies in its sheer visual spectacle and Elton John’s magnetic presence, solidifying its place as a beloved classic.
Echoing the flamboyant visual style Mulcahy employed in Duran Duran’s “Rio,” the “I’m Still Standing” video immerses viewers in a world of vibrant hues and dynamic energy. Elton John, the star of the show, cruises along the picturesque French Riviera in a convertible, instantly setting a tone of carefree extravagance. Throughout the video, his ever-changing wardrobe and an astonishing array of sunglasses become a spectacle in themselves. This is, after all, Elton John, the artist known for his larger-than-life persona and unwavering commitment to showmanship. One might even imagine him, as the legend goes, packing both a formal and casual tiara for his travels – a testament to his iconic style.
Elton John Iconic Sunglasses in Still Standing Music Video
The Carlton Hotel in Cannes becomes the next stage for Elton’s dazzling performance. Here, he’s greeted by dancing, shirtless bellboys and body-painted dancers, amplifying the video’s playful and slightly surreal atmosphere. This scene encapsulates the over-the-top glamour synonymous with the 1980s and Elton John’s personal brand. For anyone dreaming of a luxurious escape to the French Riviera, the Carlton Hotel, as depicted in the video, sets an aspirational benchmark, promising an experience where even the bellboys are part of the spectacle.
Elton John at Carlton Hotel Cannes in Still Standing Video
Adding another layer of memorable eccentricity is Bruno Tonioli, now famously known from “Dancing with the Stars.” In “I’m Still Standing,” Tonioli plays a pantsless bellboy who receives a tip of gold dust from Elton. This cameo, as Tonioli himself described, was all about embodying a “campest hotel bellboy” with a focus on energetic and flamboyant movement. His performance injects a dose of playful theatricality into the video, further enhancing its overall sense of joyous abandon. Tonioli’s own words about “gyrat[ing] my crotch in just about every shot” perfectly capture the video’s cheeky and uninhibited spirit.
Bruno Tonioli as Bellboy in Elton John Still Standing Music Video
Director Russell Mulcahy himself affectionately described the video as “super, super gay,” a sentiment that resonates throughout its vibrant and uninhibited visuals. The video embraces a sense of freedom and celebratory energy, showcasing body paint-clad dancers and synchronized movements that contribute to its overall festive atmosphere. This unapologetically joyful and expressive nature is a key part of what makes “I’m Still Standing” so enduringly appealing.
Body Painted Dancers in Elton John Still Standing Video
While undeniably exuberant and flamboyant, the video also playfully incorporates elements of hetero-sexuality, showcasing beachgoers engaged in synchronized “humping” and even a moment where Elton John playfully interacts with a woman on the beach. This lighthearted approach to sexuality reflects the era and Elton’s own public persona at the time. It’s a reminder of the evolving cultural landscape and how artists like Elton John pushed boundaries while maintaining mainstream appeal.
Synchronized Beach Humping Scene in Still Standing Music Video
The visual similarities to Duran Duran’s “Rio,” another Russell Mulcahy masterpiece, are undeniable. The use of vibrant colors, stylized shots, and a focus on performance over narrative are hallmarks of Mulcahy’s signature style during this period. The question of whether adding Bruno Tonioli’s energetic presence to the “Rio” video itself arises as a playful thought experiment, highlighting the shared visual language and spirit of these iconic 80s music videos.
Director Russell Mulcahy on Set of Elton John Still Standing
Duran Duran Rio Music Video Still – Russell Mulcahy Style
Behind the scenes, the making of “I’m Still Standing” was far from planned. According to Elton John’s biography and accounts from Mulcahy’s assistant director, a chance encounter with Duran Duran in Cannes led to a night of revelry, resulting in Elton’s chaotic on-set behavior. Elton himself recalls waking up with bruises and memory loss, jokingly blaming Duran Duran for the mayhem. This anecdote adds a layer of rock-and-roll legend to the video’s creation, emphasizing the spontaneous and energetic nature of the production.
Adding to the unplanned nature of the video, the original concept involving “cars crashing through windows” was scrapped after an expensive camera was accidentally dropped into the Cannes pier. This mishap forced Mulcahy to improvise the entire video on the spot, leading to the spontaneous and visually driven result that we know and love today. This element of improvisation and happy accident further contributes to the video’s unique charm and energy.
Elton John Dancing on Beach in Still Standing Music Video
Despite its chaotic creation, “I’m Still Standing” became a major hit, reaching number twelve on the Billboard charts and solidifying its place as one of Elton John’s most beloved songs. The song’s message of resilience and triumph, combined with the video’s unforgettable visuals, has resonated with audiences for decades. “Looking like a true survivor, feeling like a little kid…” – these lyrics, brought to life by the video’s vibrant imagery, encapsulate the enduring appeal of “I’m Still Standing” and its status as an iconic anthem of the 80s.
