Do You Remember? As Halloween is Coming

Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” music video, released on December 2, 1983, is one of the most iconic and influential music videos in history. Directed by John Landis, known for his work in horror and comedy films, the 14-minute video blends music, storytelling, and dance, setting new standards for music videos at the time. The plot follows Jackson on a date when he transforms into a werewolf, and later, into a zombie. The central moment of the video features Jackson leading a group of zombies in a now-legendary choreographed dance sequence.

The video’s concept was inspired by Jackson’s love of classic horror films, and it was crafted with a cinematic approach, unlike any music video before it. With a $500,000 budget, which was extremely high for the time, “Thriller” brought unprecedented production value to the music video format, using makeup effects, costumes, and a storyline that blurred the lines between a short film and a traditional music video.

Additionally, the video features a spoken-word segment by horror legend Vincent Price, enhancing the eerie and fun atmosphere. “Thriller” is credited with changing how music videos were perceived, making them a vital promotional tool and an art form in their own right. The dance moves, particularly the “zombie dance,” remain iconic, and the video is still celebrated, especially during Halloween.