Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing” remains one of the most enduring and uplifting anthems in pop music history. Released in 1983, the song quickly became a global hit, but it is perhaps the accompanying music video that has cemented its place in popular culture. Directed by Russell Mulcahy, known for his visually striking work with artists like Duran Duran, the “I’m Still Standing” video is a vibrant, colorful, and slightly chaotic celebration of resilience and exuberance, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the 1980s.
The music video for “I’m Still Standing” immediately grabs attention with its stylistic similarities to Duran Duran’s “Rio,” also directed by Mulcahy. Both videos are characterized by their use of bold colors, pop-art inspired imagery, and a loose, narrative-light approach that prioritizes visual spectacle and atmosphere. In “I’m Still Standing,” we see Elton John driving along the picturesque French Riviera in a convertible, radiating charisma and confidence. Throughout the video, Elton showcases a dazzling array of outfits and sunglasses, a visual feast that befits his flamboyant persona. This element of extravagant fashion is a key component of the video’s charm and aligns perfectly with Elton John’s well-known love for spectacle and performance.
Elton John iconic sunglasses in Still Standing music video
The setting shifts to the luxurious Carlton Hotel in Cannes, where Elton is greeted by an entourage of dancers and bellboys, some sporting eye-catching body paint and unconventional attire. This scene is particularly memorable for the appearance of Bruno Tonioli, now famous as a judge on Dancing with the Stars. Tonioli plays a memorable role as a playful, pantsless bellboy who receives a tip of gold dust from Elton. In an interview with The Sun, Tonioli humorously described his role as embodying “the campest hotel bellboy you could imagine,” emphasizing the video’s playful and over-the-top nature. His energetic and uninhibited performance adds to the video’s overall sense of joyous abandon.
Elton John arrives at Carlton Hotel in Still Standing video
Mulcahy himself has described the “I’m Still Standing” video as “super, super gay,” a sentiment echoed by many viewers who appreciate its flamboyant aesthetic and celebration of freedom and self-expression. However, the video also incorporates elements of heterosexual flirtation, showcasing beachgoers engaged in playful synchronized movements and even featuring Elton briefly interacting with a woman on the beach. This blend of imagery reflects the cultural context of the early 80s, a period of evolving social norms and expressions of sexuality.
Dancers in body paint in Elton John Still Standing music video
The visual style of “I’m Still Standing” shares a striking resemblance to Duran Duran’s “Rio,” particularly in its use of vibrant colors, stylized poses, and the French Riviera setting. A comparison between shots from both videos reveals Mulcahy’s signature aesthetic, characterized by its energetic pacing and visually arresting compositions. This shared visual language highlights Mulcahy’s influence in shaping the look of 80s music videos and his ability to create iconic imagery for both Elton John and Duran Duran.
Synchronized dance on the beach in Still Standing video
Adding to the legendary status of the “I’m Still Standing” video is the anecdote of Duran Duran’s involvement in its chaotic production. According to David Buckley’s biography of Elton John, members of Duran Duran met up with Elton in Cannes during filming, leading to a night of revelry. Marcelo Anciano, Mulcahy’s assistant director, recounted how Simon Le Bon allegedly encouraged a then-struggling Elton to drink heavily, resulting in Elton engaging in impromptu stripteases and demanding the cameras keep rolling. Elton himself humorously recalled waking up with bruises and a destroyed hotel room, jokingly blaming Duran Duran for the mayhem.
Elton John with woman on beach in Still Standing music video
In a behind-the-scenes account featured in Music Video Exposed, Mulcahy described working with Elton as “more of an event,” hinting at the unpredictable and larger-than-life nature of the singer. Interestingly, the flamboyant and carefree video we know today was born from a production mishap. Bruno Tonioli revealed that the original concept for “I’m Still Standing” involved elaborate stunts with cars crashing through windows. However, an expensive camera falling into the Cannes pier forced Mulcahy to scrap his initial plan and improvise the entire video on the spot, resulting in the spontaneous and iconic visual masterpiece we celebrate today.
Russell Mulcahy directing Elton John Still Standing video
“I’m Still Standing” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number twelve on the Billboard charts and becoming a defining song of Elton John’s career. Beyond its chart performance, the song and its music video have had a lasting cultural impact, embodying the resilience and optimism of its era. The line “Looking like a true survivor, feeling like a little kid…” perfectly encapsulates the song’s message of overcoming adversity and embracing life with renewed energy. The “I’m Still Standing” music video remains a testament to the creative energy of the 80s and the enduring appeal of Elton John’s music and persona.
Elton John and Bruno Tonioli in Still Standing video
In conclusion, Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing” music video is more than just a visual accompaniment to a hit song; it is a cultural artifact that captures the vibrancy, humor, and spirit of the 1980s. From its stylistic echoes of Duran Duran’s “Rio” to its accidental and chaotic creation, the video’s story is as compelling as its visuals. It stands as a testament to Elton John’s enduring star power, Russell Mulcahy’s visionary direction, and the unforgettable energy of a decade that continues to fascinate and inspire.
