Actor & Filmmaker FIRST TIME REACTION to BTS "Black Swan" Official Music Video AND Art Film!

[@CedricGegel1]

IMPORTANT: The much-requested Black Swan video is here! I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. POLL: Vote on what I watch after "Save Me" at this link: forms.gle/9obWF86Bv1qQzxzH9 I also want to apologize - as I do in the video - for an error I made. I thought I had read, in the comments of my previous videos, that the "art film" featured Jimin as the lead dancer. I was confused (you can tell if you're paying close attention), because it didn't look like Jimin, but I went with it. I apologize for my confusion, and I realized it when editing! So shoutout to Luka Vodopivec, the lead in the art film, who is amazing, but ALSO shoutout to Jimin, whose performance in the OMV is absolutely breathtaking as well! Again, I'm sorry for my own confusion, and I hope it doesn't hurt your viewing experience too much. Lastly, I know many of you have been requesting more music videos - "Idol," I Need U," "D.N.A" come to mind - but since I am going to dive into the full universe, I want to have context for everything! Hope that makes sense. I appreciate all of you -- wait! I purple all of you! 💜

[@tasha5768]

Thank for for doing Black swan, I thought for sure at first you were doing the behind the scenes clips as well and when I realise it was the art film I sadly was disappointed sorry!!! Please do watch them even if you don't react to them, they are on the BangtanTV youtube page and I believe there are 2 or 3 videos for this (don't forget subtitle though) Jimin's solo one is amazing to watch! Also in the videos you'll see who the shadows are etc it's really interesting.

[@Lynne_Naz]

This is how I love your reaction. Carefully dissect each shot and lyrics. Thank you for taking time to learn about the boys and their work. 💜 Location: Los Angeles Theater

[@samsam_gsk]

It was so hard to choose which one to do first in your form 😭😭😭

[@Lynne_Naz]

In Addition: BTS launch Project: CONNECT during the released of their Album Map of the Soul: 7 For details: link⤵️ ibighit.com/bts/eng/discography/detail/map_of_the_soul-7.php

[@marissa1341]

Woah if you're diving - here is the storyline playlist. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJvWnKKInZ16iqc Saves you trouble trying to find the right video. FYI, anything Japanese will get blocked and may get you a strike. So careful on those.

[@isabellereffas3679]

The song was inspired by this quote by Martha Graham: 'A dancer dies twice-once when they stop dancing, and this first death is more painful.”

[@cuesegue]

Jimin did actually perform an extended solo dance during BTS Black Swan live during their online ON:E concert and it was stunning, specifically the first concert. His performance was so compelling, I cried. You could feel the devastation and despair being projected during certain parts, it was quite profound. There are numerous performances of Black Swan by BTS as guest stars on different television shows, live, dance practices, and behind the scenes and each performance highlights subtle yet notable variations which makes it impossible to determine a personal favorite. For me, BTS Black Swan is a masterpiece.

[@sheetalmaharjan7470]

i cried during Map of the soul ON:E

[@erume5776]

"technically Jimin never lost his jacket in this one" - i LAUGHED

[@Armymom1984]

He’s already making jokes about Jimin’s jacket coming off and shoulder showing. I love this guy. LOL

[@lilyduck4538]

Me too!

[@cyann410]

@@Armymom1984 yea, he’s ARMY, for sure !😂

[@missJJ_onYT]

The fact that he's new to this journey yet he knows about Jimin and his jacket really impressed me

[@WiseOwl_so_1d_like_to_think]

YEESSS! Finally someone who pays attention to the Art Film! The dual treatment BTS gave Black Swan signals their growing maturity as ARTISTS. Letting another group of professional dancers interpret their music... This direction made some people uncomfortable, but wow it made me so very proud... I remember watching in on the subway train when it dropped, commuting home, it was so surreal my jaw dropped. I knew we were entering a new BTS ERA.

[@cetriyasArtnComicsChannel]

I don't think they knew about the art film treatment? At least they were surprised by it when the company showed it to them. Just to know there are other artists in the company oh, they just probably decide to do this to express themselves

[@Armymom1984]

I love the art film too! I was extremely proud to see Bts go in this direction. It’s not physically them but it’s amazing that they decided to do this type of work. I love the orchestra version. My daughter actually plays it at night to help her sleep.

[@WiseOwl_so_1d_like_to_think]

@@cetriyasArtnComicsChannel - I know. But although the members expressed surprise at the product when they saw it, I believe the project with MN Dance company was deliberately conceptualised by Bang PD & RM together, in conjunction with the Connect BTS ART project, to reach out to various forms of art. Of course, they engaged a professional art curator for his ideas. I am certain that PDogg and Son SD gave their inputs as well on the music and dance elements... I notice PDogg’s classical music input often adds that unique artistic quality to the MV, like the use of Bach’s Mass and the organ Passacaglia in BS&T, etc. So I have no doubt that he conceived the orchestral version.

[@flyushkifly]

@@WiseOwl_so_1d_like_to_think Yes, pride! Showing the world just how serious they are. The art film and CONNECT project was a huge departure from the norm and I was so blown away. I woke up to watch it when it dropped (4 or 5 am PST maybe?) and afterwards my husband asked what I thought. "I..don't...know...." was my answer. It was too big to get my head around at first. :-D

[@wevusqa1]

I love the ochestra version

[@erume5776]

i want to leave here boy's thoughts on Black Swan *Namjoon* : Black swan's meaning... It was written assuming 'when I can't do music anymore' & 'when I come to dislike music'. Of course, I do think at times that it might happen because, honestly, if all jobs were started as a hobby because you liked it, there are lots of instances where you come to dislike it as it becomes business or work. But now, because that music or that stage is the only thing that gives happiness, joy & moving emotion as much as it gives pain, even after feeling that pain, you come to think that you are a person who has to do that. I think it's always like that *J-Hope* : The moment I think, 'I want to do well but is this my limit?', I do think at times that I don't want to do music. But whenever I do think that, I really dislike the me who has that thought and try to overcome, win over it *Jimin* : To be honest, right now we love music, singing, and love performing, but thinking of the possibility of that no longer being fun and touching us at some point, I thought it was really gloomy and I think we tried our best to portray that gloominess

[@CedricGegel1]

Powerful quotes. I'm going to think about that next time I watch it. Thank you for sharing!

[@bluewolfdancer]

"Oh, the shadow's doing different moves." THANK YOU! So refreshing and enjoyable to hear you say that. All those little and big things that made ARMY go 'WOW'; I love that you have a sharp eye and mind to pick up on those and point them out, instead of (let's score big with BTS/AMRY) reactors who talk over or close their eyes to groove or do 'their act' and consequently miss those details. They may be short moments or small details, but their pivotal in understanding and appreciating the music, message and MVs. I'd never expect anyone to get everything at once in the first viewing - I didn't either - but I enjoy watching you because you actually pay attention. You are so perceptive and I also love hearing your views and takes on things. Whether you like or not matters less than a genuine evaluation of their work. Once again, thank you for being a true reactor and not a popularity gimmick.

[@CedricGegel1]

I noticed that this morning during the premiere! Such a fascinating video. Thank you for everything you said - it really does mean a lot!

[@icybird9999]

So glad that he's doing them together. So many reactors forget that this one exists as well, and it breaks my heart as an artist. (Plus, the instrumentation on that version makes me and my soul physically cry)

[@carolineb.9596]

I *LOVE* your take on the whole "actor who sings+dances" vs "singer who acts+dances" vs "dancer who acts+sings" and i can see it so much in the BTS members too! They're all incredible at everything they do but when you get to know them a bit more you get to see each of their core talents and you can identify where they draw their inspiration from

[@heavens_sins]

I love seeing you react to this. The way you get so lost in the performance... And talk about what you are clearly passionate and talented at is just beautiful. Thankyou for sharing this with us, for showing us things that we would otherwise have taken for granted if not pointed out by an expert. I look toward to what you'll react to next. And the little editing notes are really funny.

[@nvrmxithx]

Yes Jimin and J-Hope are main dancer but Jimin matches more of the contemporary type of dance meanwhile J-Hope is more fitted for the Hip-Hop type of dancing 💜

[@taslimabegum4109]

Jimin does have a dance solo to this orchestral version from their virtual concert performance. You can probably find it on KZbin somewhere. It’s honestly stunning.

[@flyushkifly]

FYI - that main dancer, Luka Vodopivec, was 17. The Slovenian MN Dance Company had 2 months to choreograph before filming.

[@antikathy]

Also they were all first and second year students with the dance company. So amazing

[@flyushkifly]

@@antikathy gah! Just extraordinary. They find so much young talent. Like Sienna Lalauo, also.

[@mizz_mo]

The insights are appreciated. I am thankful for giving us an additional facet to BTS's music and adding depth to their art. You allowing us into your own art and sharing bits of your life is a gift. BORAHAE. 💜

[@CedricGegel1]

That's very kind of you to say. I feel like art requires a bit of the personal, and BTS pours so much of themselves into it that it's only right to respond with much of the same! 💜

[@nevaladder]

@@CedricGegel1 The dancing along is also appreciated, no matter how dorky you think you look. 😂 (Borahae means "I purple you." 💜)

[@virginia_the_elder]

You moving with the "Art" piece was nice, especially cuz you told us you were a dancer. It makes sense. Just like your initial reaction to the MV. It's always warm when a professional recognizes Jimin's talent. I would be happy to watch an entire dance piece just with Jimin. 💜 I think Black Swan showcased their improvements. 2 underground rappers and an acting student have come a long long way in performance art. Once again, thank you for a thoughtful and revealing reaction. I hope budding film directors and producers watch these so they can learn from you.

[@WiseOwl_so_1d_like_to_think]

The venue used for filming the BTS MV is the Los Angeles Theatre.

[@TheTwil1]

This was a comeback mv. EVERY reactors /Armys jaw dropped. Instead of a MV of themselves (BTS) they had a dance company/contemporary dancing. NO ONE saw it coming. Many a reactors tears were shed that day.

[@skier___7843]

This is a PRO analysis to Black Swan! 👌🏻💜

[@sruticranjith5194]

See how when the “blackswan” started dancing he was being controlled by the black suits, his motions were their motions, his limbs were like puppets for them, in the end he never lost the shadows around him but suddenly they started following HIM and not the other way around, and thats how in the end he could fly, not being controlled, but in balance with his shadows...the multiple concepts in this song and concept and the vdo, the sincerity, its crazy

[@gastonjf1]

The arthouse film is an almost perfect marriage of cinema, dance, music, expression and interpretation. I dont know where they found this dance co but thank god they did. The whole thing is just spellbinding. Both versions are just beautiful and neither should be forgotten.

[@yaldasadathosseini7820]

HI.I found your youtube channel few days ago and I was really impressed. Thank you for your great ideas and beautiful point of views.I watched all your reactions and they were really good. I learned a lot from the practical things you said about camera angles and etc. Pls share your thoughts and knowledge with us .Im sure we armies appriciate to know how all the art and etc exactly works. I really liked how you decribed the use of different colors in filming. I really look forward for your reactions to BTS. I hope you enjoy the journey. P.s: Sorry for gramatical and dictation mistakes.I'm not a native speaker :)

[@CedricGegel1]

That's very kind of you to say, and your English is great! As much as I may be able to inform the ARMY, I'm happy to, and I'm certainly being taught by all of you! I feel as if my appreciation is being enhanced by all of your knowledge and passion, and it drives me to continue to make art myself!

[@yaldasadathosseini7820]

@@CedricGegel1 @Cedric Gegel thank you. It is kind of you too. Life is itself a class where we learn every day. And yes.Art's nature is to be inspiring:) I hope you start.We all look forward to your works.good luck.

[@rvermillion8188]

If you take 1 member as focus, you will have 7 another journey. Yes, I agree. It's almost impossible to have 7 heads rowing 1 boats to 1 destinations, but RM said that they are 7 people in a boat, looking at different directions. At first I don't understand because in most interviews or their vlog, they are the most telephatic group. They move in same manners, at the same time. But then, when they are together, you can see they have 7 different ways to sit in a sofa, 7 different ways to carry bags, 7 different ways to eat pancakes.. Fascinating.

[@briarrose8154]

Without a doubt you are one if the best BTS reactors I’ve seen! You have to watch spring day & spring day explained by Bulletproof vibes all in one video just like this! It is what cemented my love of BTS but be warned I haven’t seen a single reactor watch the explained without crying

[@angu15]

Omg! You have to watch Jimin’s Black Swan behind the scenes! I see you love contemporary, he did contemporary for 2 years before becoming a member of BTS. He did hip hop since he was 10 or 12 years old. The combination of his dance background gave him that unique style he has! And yes! Jimin and J-Hope are the main dancers of the group!

[@chrissturkenboom6080]

JHope the leaddancer. Nowadays V and Jungkook are also part of the danceline. BigHit send JK to the U.S. to learn how to dance. Jimin was the last member to join BTS with the shortest period of training. He also wasn't even duren that he would be part of BTS. I really like that BTS let an official contempary dance company do this mv. That's what I like about BTS. They really have a creative mind.

[@angu15]

@@chrissturkenboom6080 Jimin and J-hope main dancers of BTS. Does it hurt you? Good.

[@himaririku5289]

@@angu15 what?

[@WonderingWildWanderingRose]

​@@angu15unnecessary negativity. You can inform, clarify, and fact check without harshness. I know it's been awhile, so maybe you will consider editing your comment?

[@angu15]

@@WonderingWildWanderingRose no.

[@zuu876]

i absolutely love how spot on you are and how well you capture the details. usually for us, fans, it takes a whole day of just talking and analyzing with different theories to make the whole story, so i am amazed but not surprised that you did it right of the back.

[@vpme17]

I want to know your opinion to BTS "Spring Day", MV and performance. Because in the MV there is no dance. But the dance performance is so full of symbol. Don't forget to check the explanation video, too. Very heart broken, but optimistic.

[@linaabdelrahim3137]

Hello Mr. Gegel. I'm so happy that you're taking an interest in our boys. Please continue to watch and react to their songs and videos. Even some of their older songs as they have come a long way. I'm a 54 year old teacher who started watching them with my daughter 6 years ago. Their songs have helped me through some of the toughest times in my life.

[@kittyr7095]

Your analysis is bang on, you’re one of few reactors who have really taken this in and embraced it for what it truly is, art. I really enjoyed watching your experience of this piece and I look forward to watching you react to many more pieces of their work. Love your reactions and your analysis from a highly creative professional like yourself, plus you can tell you feel ‘connection’ and the power of emotion (most likely due to your line of work) and it’s a treat to watch, so thank you.

[@CedricGegel1]

Thank you! I've gotten a ton of assistance from comments like yours and I appreciate you saying that. Much appreciated!!

[@rebeccabeebe1]

Hey! Don't ever apologize for enjoying the music and the art and dancing along with it! BTS and ARMY is all about being yourself

[@hamishloves9968]

Finally, an intelligent and sensitive reactor to BTS who gives fresh insights to what Army thought they already know. You’re good, Cedric. Keep going☺️

[@erume5776]

the dancing shadow in the beginning was also Jimin!

[@Tta8221]

This is how I never stop watching BTS reaction videos. I think I've just watched black swan reaction for 99 times and some more.. From musician to psychiatric, artist to professors, performers to writers. Everyone will bring new ways to interprate their art and work each time. Me love your insight too. Thank You. Always waiting for your videos.

[@jennmourin994]

LOVED your response!!! Thanks for reacting to one of my absolute favourite BTS songs/MV. The message of the song about dealing with fears of losing your love and passion for what drives you is so profound - a reference to legendary choreographer Martha Graham's famous quote "A dancer dies twice, once when they stop dancing, and this first death is the more painful." This MV is also outstanding for me because of how JIMIN (Blue toned hair, doing contemporary dance in this MV, THE Black Swan) shines so bright. Jimin is not only a uniquely talented singer he is a PHENOMENAL dancer. When this MV first came out and BTS were doing TV shows to promote it J-Hope/Hobi when asked immediately said it was all "JIMIN, JIMIN, JIMIN"! Many dancers/dance experts say Jimin is in a class of his own above the rest because he is able to reconcile his modern/ contemporary dance training with his BTS/Hip-Hop training which are antithetical, and extremely difficult to do! Great job on the reaction - keep up the great job!

[@ashleyder9164]

Black Swan is such a work of art, and I feel like it is so under appreciated outside of the fan base.

[@nvrmxithx]

You are on the right track it's actually about them scared of the feeling that they will lose their love for performing so cool that you noticed that!

[@erume5776]

but absolutely like that your body reacts to this piece of art... don't hold yourself back

[@fllwyrblssw9289]

I totally agree! We can tell that your body wants to move to the music, so let it!

[@WonderingWildWanderingRose]

It's one of the things I love about BTS-they make me MOVE, whether I'm in the mood or not, which always improves my mood and makes my body feel better. *It's not pretty, but 1) I can't help it and 2) WHO CARES? I need it!

[@theargentinita]

Jimin did something similar on their online concert, he represented a dying black swan 😭😭🤧. Dude you're such a passionate person towards dance and cinematography, what a beautiful soul 💜💜💜

[@sorasusan2975]

Hello I’ve been enjoying your reaction to bts a lot. I’m a 50 y old female korean. I have known for bts since they debuted however i wasn’ t really into them. Recently i accidentally clicked KZbin channel Dynamite then i fell in love with bts and became an army. Now I’m spending time with their music crying and smiling. I think your reaction to bts music gives me a different way of understanding cinematically

[@Maria.art_and_soul]

OMG the MV and the art film at one video ‼🤩💜💜💜💜

[@dozyghoul]

The way I analyse the art film (English Lit major over here lol) is that the black dancers symbolise the fear that BTS are talking about in the lyrics. The fear of losing passion for what you love doing. In the beginning, the lead dancer is fighting against the other dancers, fighting these fears, and this is what makes him feel trapped. By fighting this fear he ends up being washed away by the current (represented by the ocean like dance movements) and stuck in this abyss as opposed to overcoming it. However, by the end, it's almost like he begins to accept the fear and dances with them in harmony as if to say 'these fears are what makes me who I am and I can either let them drown me or work with them'. This is symbolised at the end when the dancers hold him up as he begins to soar.

[@shenhavmantzur4093]

Jimin and J-Hope are the main dancers. Jimin shines in Black Swan thanks to his contemporary dance background, he has a beautiful solo choreography that he performed in the Map Of The Soul ON:E virtual concert😍

[@missheju169]

10:48 1st date for a dancer is when your life on stage is over. Your body let's your down: you are not a performer anymore. That is the death that is the most painful. Words of Martha Graham.

[@douseenow]

I loved all the post edit comments 😂 also, move as much as you want dude. I just saw how much you enjoyed it and it truly reflects my own enjoyment. It’s very interesting to hear your takes. Please keep going and enjoy the journey! 💜

[@MM-et2jr]

I couldn't agree more. It made me smile, so what's the harm really ;-)

[@flyushkifly]

I've determined there are two types of people. Those who see the dancer being lifted to fly away, and those who see him held down and unable to ascend. My friend, whose ankles prevented her from continuing ballet, cried in catharsis watching this because for her he was set free finally. RM saw him as thwarted and earthbound. I have to admit that perspective worries me!

[@borat8745]

The orchestral arrangement is my favorite version of this song..so emotional! Jimin does actually dance to the orchestral version in BTS’ recent online concert last month-It was stunning! “Black Swan” has some references to the film with Nathalie Portman but main connection has to do with the balance with the light and shadow side of our personalities (in the film the ‘shadow’ side overcame her and led to her demise). This album (Map Of The Soul:7) was inspired by psychiatrist Carl Jung’s theory of individuation that explores the Persona-Shadow-Ego side of our personalities. BTS’ Black Swan is about the fear of losing passion for something you once loved (in this song, BTS refers to their music/art), but finding your way out of that dark place/thoughts to find your passion for it again. BTS member RM wrote this song. Their songs, stages and videos have allot of metaphors and symbolism +their performances are on another level of creativity amazing! Check out “Dionysus” live performance at Melon Music Awards 2019, mythological references will blow you away!

[@mochiwithjiminjam]

This was the first video I saw with BTS. I fell instantly in love with the artistery, the dance, the voices, the music, the surroundings and especially I fell in love with Jimins dance. I´m not a singer, dancer or anything like that, just an ordinary single mom, but I can apriciate when someone does something better than most, and BTS absolutely does practicly everything better than most

[@yeonjunjiminlover253]

Technically Jimin indeed danced solo to orchestral version of Black Swan during BTS ON:E concert i have a video of it, but reacting non on patreon or similar platform for it can end in video being blocked sadly ;(

[@kika75116]

I cried when I watched the orchestra version I felt the emotions of the song and dance then cried again watching jimin perform on the online concert 😭😭😭

[@LeeDee5]

You are one of the few that interprets lyrics and video closest to their intent right away. This is wonderful to watch. Also don’t worry if you get confused about who is who or where they are. If you continue watching, their names/faces will come to you eventually.

[@ejentabi]

You are one of the very few reactor who can actually tell what they are trying to say in the MV. Thank you. Very well explained and I enjoy very much

[@Maria2006001]

Really enjoy your commentaries - you've got the good balance of acting, singing, dance, film student + passion! The orchestral mv was filmed at the abandoned Hawthorne Plaza Mall in California.

[@erume5776]

you're talking about them being IN the theater, right in the spotlight or in the lobby, but either way being INSIDE lays apone them a role of an artist and i thought that it might be interesting.. so. I once read the theory that Black Swan MV with the whole inside-the-theater scenery is kind of a continuation to Boy with luv. Boy with luv is very colourful and cheery MV comparing to Black Swan and it's starting with them standing outside of the *theater* called *persona*. There they're brightly performing infront of people with the fans croud and all lights and afiches pointed to them - we can take it as the facade, mask, persona that outside people see. And the in Black Swan light are always on them only to show their shadow. The seats in front of the scene are empty, the whole theater is empty, it's just them and their shadows, it's what is left when the audience is gone - their fears, their dark side. It's know that Map of The Soul Album series are inspired by Jung psychology. Carl Jung mentions the discovery of the unconsciousness or the inner things people hide within themselves. And Black Swan lyrics goes "Deeper, Yeah I think I'm going deeper. I'll go in myself. In the deepest depths I saw myself" there's a lot to think about, i just put out my first thoughts here. maybe you'd like to watch Boy in luv :) it's also considered as a song for the ARMY. yeah, they do it a lot

[@fllwyrblssw9289]

Thank you for your insights connecting Jungian psychology to this video!

[@fadiamoufouki5943]

actually its Boy WITH love but still nice interpretation

[@erume5776]

@@fadiamoufouki5943 oh... yeah, where is my brain 😅 gonna edit

[@JC-fw9bg]

Loved this comment! 💜 Just so you know, @Cedric Gegel, BTS does have another song/mv called “Boy In Luv” which is VERY different from “Boy With Luv.” There is a correlation between the two, but the comparison to Black Swan referenced in this original comment is to “Boy WITH Luv.”

[@yoonlesb6348]

I loved this insightful interpretation

[@melissaqueen5911]

Wow! I am really enjoying watching your reactions. You have such a unique but deep take on what you are experiencing with BTS. Obviously the connection you have is from a performer standpoint, but it's still refreshing to see especially with how effectively you communicate your thoughts. With so many fans, I feel a lot of the depth of their material is sometimes lost. That's not a bad thing because enjoyment on the surface is valid, but it's the layers that really gets to me and makes me really appreciate them and the Big Hit team. A lot of their official MVs have some behind the scenes clips that give a little insight into the recording. Those are always really interesting to watch, especially the two on Black Swan. Also, there is a documentary on the music behind ON and I think you will really enjoy that. Keep up the great work!

[@robertabigi4502]

Hi dear, the location is "The Los Angeles Theatre Broadwy Theatre District"... and welcome in army's family!

[@soyothedanny]

Lol Jimin is korean. MN dance team was amazing and the main dancer's muscle control was just mind blowing

[@mooshmooshtime7535]

I love your reaction, all of them actually! You're able to pick up a lot of things that BTS (and those behind the scenes) wants you to pick up, and it makes me happy that you genuinely love their work! Just a quick summary: "Black Swan" is about the idea that an artist's first death is the loss of ability to create anymore, whether it be dance, music, or art, etc. It is BTS's biggest fear, or should I say every artist's. Anyway, I look forward to more, not just your reactions, but your personal works as well! I've seen some snippets, and they are amazing!

[@MB-zy7fi]

Black Swan ...First time...Art Film Amazing, Unique, Emotional performance Wonderful Artists from MN Dance Company. Only Dancers... BTS...only voices...behind the scene... Epic scenery and choreo... Thank You Amazing Artists from MN Dance Company. Be Safe Everyone

[@stigma1101]

💜BTS - SPRING DAY💜 Alot of "touching' symbolics too 👍🏼 And after it, The explanation on BTS - SPRING DAY 💜💜💜😭 I think you will tear drop on this one....

[@sweetlia8223]

From hiphop to rnb to contemporary.. literally, they can do anything. Everytime they came up with a new album, they break the stereotypes in kpop music. 💜

[@0Annou0]

Keep in mind that the whole concept of the Map of the soul album series are based on the psychoanalytic book "Jung's Map of the Soul: An Introduction" , ( that's why you see many shadows ) so you are right about the different parts of the self. The book starts with "surface" (ego) of the psyche and exploring successively more complex areas, including complexes, libido thoery, shadow, "anima/us," the self, individuation, and synchronicity. Their first album was about "Persona" . The public self/ image that we choose to show to the other people. That's why Persona is a happy, bright version of BTS. Their second album that includes "Black Swan", Map of the Soul 7 is a combination of the concepts of Shadow and Ego. Ego is the center part of our selfs, while Shadow is the negative, dark character traits that we push back in our unconscious. The shadow is everything that we have denied in ourselves and cast into oblivion, or rather everything that the ego has refused to associate with itself. The album contains both their shadows, the difficulties they faced, and ego, they acceptance as part of them.

[@ambientparadise315]

Amazing reaction. You see art as a whole, bts is very intentional and you get... Even the references. You interpret things greatly.

[@TheSecretScript]

Stop ask for sorry we love your spontaneous dances, your comments and your theories

[@ScarDragon]

They performed "Black Swan" during Jimmy Fallon's BTS week in September. Also part of that week was their performance of "Home" which has since become one of my favorite BTS songs. The NPR Tiny Home Concert is also worth a watch.

[@ChiariPTCSongbird]

No joke, this was my very first BTS m/v ever, which made me want to find out more about them as a group because the idea that a kpop group would lead with this m/v for a comeback made such an impression on me (grew up wanting to be an opera singer and LOVE orchestral music). I am STILL lowkey bitter that BigHit refuses to release this version of "Black Swan" because UGH. But, beside the point. There is a Bangtan Bomb of BTS reacting to the Art Film and the members kept asking Jimin if this was what he used to do and he was almost frantic to say he was never at this level (he's the King of Humble). He DID perform a contemporary solo to this instrumental during their recent Map of the Soul: ON:E online concert....you can probably find a clip online? It was gorgeousness and I think ARMY collectively yelled "FINALLY" in unison :)

[@cheryltheblackarmymom9465]

I have watched all of your videos and have enjoyed them. Your insights and new and fresh. As ARMY (not the army by the way) I am learning new things with the cinematography, lighting. ECT. Cool. I hope you continue down the rabbit hole of BTS. We are happy to watch every moment.

[@anja__v]

Hi Cedric! Another great video! You are really killing it with the interpretations :D I know you already have a schedule in mind with Save me and the other options in your poll, but I wanna try with my suggestion once more: please watch Interlude: Shadow. It is the intro to their latest album (Black Swan and ON are both on it) and it really focuses on this Shadow they keep singing about and playing with - in this video the Shadow actually comes to life and has a verse and a singing part - it is amazing. In my opinion as a former art major and classical music major, it is the best track on the album. It would make so much more sense to watch it before going back to a 2016 song (Save me). :) Greetings from Vienna!

[@anja__v]

Correction: it is not an intro - it comes somewhere in the middle. Intro track is 'Persona', Interlude is 'Shadow' and Outro is 'Ego' (Karl Jung's concepts as you correctly assumed in one of your videos) :D

[@lunakelly2113]

You're probably the only person I've watched that got the message of the video within the first 5 minutes.

[@kai236]

they do have a song using the sea as a metaphor but it talks about both the ocean and the dessert... omg your brain! ahhhhhh when you started talking about water symbolizing abundance yet in black swan, they're not floating but talking about the ocean floor, it perhaps talks about their journey. before, in older songs, they talked about being in the dessert and expecting to see the sea but they are still in the dessert. in black swan, since they've already reached the top at this point, they're now in the sea but in the ocean floor... very symbolical of being successful and in the circle of fame but still feeling terrified by the death of passion this time... in orchestra ver, he stopped fighting the shadows and that's when he started flying...

[@cjhernandez9927]

BTS music is so surreal. It resonates well. True artists! Great reaction Cedric! Stay genuine

[@Armymom1984]

Yes! Please please please watch the wings short films! I would love to hear your view on them. You are so intuitive and smart but I think you’ll understand all of it if not most of it. I love watching your reactions because you’re so smart and you figure so many things out that we never even realized before also.

[@meaganb67]

I have watched this mv so many times, and watched reactions so many times - from directors, musicians, dancers, etc. Yet this is the first time I heard that lobby / stage dichotomy explanation (roughly four minutes in). It makes so much sense and I'm loving it. Thank you Cedric, you have such a unique experience to add to the reaction/ARMY community. I also really appreciate that you add additional commentary in production, because obviously we all catch different things in future viewings. Keep it up!

[@CedricGegel1]

So glad you enjoyed, and thank you for saying that! You're right - there is SO MUCH to catch, which makes this a ton of fun!

[@WonderingWildWanderingRose]

​@@CedricGegel1 I echo all @meaganb67's comments here and add that it's also the first time I heard the observations of the color of the fog/cage in the orchestral version as reinforcing the ocean depths concept and the black dancers movements within the cage as being wave-like. Four years since releasing it, watching SO MANY reactions, reading hundreds of comments with each reaction, and I'm still coming upon unique perspectives! 🤯 LOVE IT! Love how BTS inspires so many thoughts! 💜

[@missheju169]

8:56 you did not want that to be over. So that is the curse of Watching and liking BTS It will start again but it is always very short. Even a 2:30 concert feel short.

[@celipel]

The black swan represents a strange surprise event, something that you did not expect to see said this BTS represents the black swan in this case the dancer without a shirt. In the dance he acts differently from the others, he fights, he goes alone and then he makes the others follow him, good this in what happened with the kpop industry. Nobody imagined that a group of Korea would leave their country (cage) would cross the borders (stairs) and dominate the world. thanks for watching and being interested in bts

[@stellachoi2375]

I personally love the live black Swan at Jimmy fallon show the most. Amazing background and great performance.

[@IsabelLopez-pl7cs]

This version of the song is mesmerizing

[@sarahtrevorrow297]

Give us all your shoulder shakes we love watching you enjoy the music.

[@TheRedARMYRose]

I'm a dancer mostly specializing in ballroom. This song is very emotional for me due to times when I have been unable to perform either because of Covid or injuries. The MN dance performance is especially hard to watch because it almost seems like the main dancer is in pain but still is dying to dance. Enjoyed your reaction and looking forward to more. I love to hear your thoughts. 💜

[@erume5776]

just wanna say i really like that you put additional texts in the video :) respect!

[@mariapiccioni5974]

I swear, the way you analyse every aspect and often go BEYOND any expectation of understanding is so, SO satisfying for the viewing experience. I usually watch reaction videos to relive the thrill of a first time, but with you it is also incredibly educational, well-pondered AND perfectly worded. You are very well-rounded in your talents and I am looking forward to seeing you grow💙

[@CedricGegel1]

Wow, thank you! I've been super impressed by them - the thrill of the first time certainly isn't lost on me yet!

[@roldyvillabroza6960]

Yes you got it right the exceptional and main dancer #ParkJimin my ultimate bias... thank you appreciating him because he puts a lot of work with this project....

[@noyninio5265]

You have to watch this song which is live it is definitely more amazing than anything

[@inch979]

Im really happy that there are foreigners who really can get the meaning of the songs just by watching their mv :) not many do that in youtube. They usually show their feelings and reactions to their mv and performances.. im glad that the mv and their lyrics still can deliver the message to foreigners too not only to us, Koreans. Its very amazing to know this and Im surprised that you could just analyze it without reading or watching any explanation of the songs :) appreciate your effort!! Thanks a lot!!

[@katiaferreira4370]

This is why BTS are on another level for me. This is my absolute favourite song by them and trust me I have many favourites but this is tops for me

[@KKMfan60]

You commented a lot about your movement while reacting to the art film but my opinion is that if you feel it within you to react physically by dance, then do it. It makes me happy that you were moved to the point of dancing and it’s definitely not awkward or anything negative adjective.

[@ronnybts7902]

These song is such a masterpiece 💜💜💜💜💜

[@kalikaliankhen]

Oh, that reaction was great. And it was really nice to chat with you Cedric and your new fans on your live premiere!

[@CedricGegel1]

Wonderful to chat! Thanks for coming :)

[@debbiestanford6917]

I would love to watch your reaction to Spring day and then the explanation video. There is no dancing but a very important story to it, it always bring me to tears

[@adventureswithavery3053]

I just want to say that I love and greatly appreciate the commentary of your thoughts seeing this all again in editing.

[@Kauritree08]

This shows the diversity of BTS ability to dance. Jimin is a contemporary dancer and it's always fantastic when he showcases that talent. But I also saw footage when he was younger when he pop & locked. There's a series of videos like BREAK THE SILENCE and BURN THE STAGE, which show what happens backstage during concerts, the exhaustion having to be cooled down by staff and receiving oxygen between numbers and the injuries they suffer, all so they can perform for us. |t's actually quite heartbreaking how much they feel that responsibility weighs on them, but they do it out of love. I think they they are still white swans.

[@jingcc0121]

Great reaction and perspective! Appreciate your review and reaction, especially coming from your profession! I think you’ll appreciate BTS’s music and art, they have so many messages in their music and the way they do videos. They are very intentional with everything they do.

[@madorisolomon6440]

Lol don't apologize for your dancing! It lets us know you're being genuine

[@karodear]

My gosh your take on the ocean vs desert and the sinking loneliness of this ocean here is so spot on. You just get it, don't you! :o

[@anaa8157]

💜Love your reactions and comments always trying to teach us about film and see it from another perspective. I honestly can't wait to see your next reaction. 💜

[@serendimin]

Jimin actually did do a solo with this version of the song during their latest O:NE concert. If you are able to watch it please do because it is breathtaking!

[@mintgi4136]

The comments you edited on your video are so hilarious I've been laughing hard for 5 minutes now

[@trepearound3915]

I wish I could like this more than once. What you said at the end really touched me. I appreciate your thoughts and comments. I hope BTS is able to give you some of what they’ve given us. Good luck with your art and career. Can’t wait for the next reaction 💜

[@sariel8406]

You must also watch Jimin's Black Swan full SOLO at the recent Map of the Soul: ONE concert. BTS performed the regular Black Swan choreo then at the end of the song, the lights dimmed and the members steathlessly took off Jimin's shoes amd Jimin began his solo to the full instrumental version of the song. Totally unexpected! We never knew that was coming. It is spellbinding and tear-inducing and he provided the much needed bridge between the official mv and art film. Jimin have not had proper contemporary dance training for almost a decade but he still slayed the performance. This with the latin-esque Filter performance that came after cemented his position as best dancer in kpop.

[@mpgisbtsarmybaefighting2838]

Oh please react to the dance practice. You made me tear up because of your enthusiasm 😢 for our boys artistry. I really appreciate that. Thank you💜

[@LittleSnowDancer02]

Thank you for reacting to Black Swan! It is such a masterpiece and I love the subject matter.

[@itmfiddler]

Black Swan really spoke to me. I was a dancer, never pro because I was an idiot when I was young, but it was a huge part of my life, as was playing music - they were everything to me. When I was in my 30s a medical issue took all of that away from me. Or maybe I let it take my soul away because as a perfectionist, if I couldn't dance full out or play music as well, I wasn't going to do it at all. I know what Martha Graham's quote means at a deep level, this was the start of a long drawn-out slow death that only stopped a few months ago. Agust D and BTS brought me back to life and I'm dancing again. Just for myself, because still Type A/perfectionist/OCD person here. They saved my life, for real, and more importantly, they gave me back emotion. I've spent some time recently thinking about how/why that happened and I've come to realize that it had to be Agust D's music that did it. His rap music evokes emotion in me like no other music. That emotion - which was primarily sadness and anger - was the crack in the wall of numbness that was becoming so thick last winter it was smothering me to the point where I had basically stopped eating, stopped doing anything, and through that crack came BTS bringing in joy and energy and light. They say that BTS finds you when you most need them, I'm here to say this was the truth for me. I hope you can continue to enjoy and be so passionate about their work, and sharing that passion with us. Thank you.