Filmmaker Reacts to Ren - Hi Ren

#ren #filmmaker #reaction
Original link: • Ren - Hi Ren (Official...

[@SamuelPerryFalvey]

Heya, glad you liked our video! Was nice to see someone analyse my work and see what motivations they thought motivated our choices etc. As well as everyone else's thoughts cinematically in the comments. Thanks for your response!

[@nixpuk75]

Yay! A chance to say to you directly, Sam how much I appreciate the wonderful cinematic artistry of your camera work on this

[@tomhoremans2506]

Love your work man! Totally blown away by how inspirational and just totally genius Ren is, but I cannot but absolutely respect and admire the way it is portrayed and captured by you as well! Total fan of your work on the Tale of Jenny and Screech-trilogy too btw, the cinematographic choices there create such a unique universe (visuals and audio are sublime, as they are again in Hi Ren)… I have hundreds of questions going through my mind right now that I’d love to ask you (like when it says ‘a Ren and Samuel film’ how far does that collaboration go as to Rens part in cinematographic choices? And for all these one take-videos, how many takes did it actually take to arrive at that ‘one’ astonishingly perfect take? Seems like there is barely any editing involved after, is the work really mainly in a huge amount of coordination, preparation and rehearsal in advance or am I wrong there? And how do guys feel now you’re breaking the internet 😁? Etc), but I won’t bother you to actually answer those: I just want to take my hat of to you sir, and to say that I’m glad to see you as well getting some well deserved credit in vids like this one! Please keep doing what you guys are doing…. 👌✨👍

[@angelasweet-williams3678]

Ah! Sam! I’m glad for this opportunity to chime in and reiterate how brilliant your filming is. (I’m a choreographer and costume designer, and I’ve dabbled in making dance fiIms here and there). I know Ren is getting so much attention right now but you sir are a genius too. Your work is very effective and natural. Very subtle and unforced. Ren’s music can stand in its own, yes. But the VIDEOS are what’s bringing his work to the masses. If the production standards were less than excellent, it wouldn’t do the music justice. And the production standards are indeed excellent. Bravo to you!

[@MartynLFC]

You two are killing it and creating art, keep it up!!!

[@itsjonhiller]

thanks so much for finding this humble little video. deeply appreciate your words and wonderful work!

[@mytimusica]

My son who’s 8 worked out something I didn’t notice. He saw two shadows created by the lights.

[@seanmcgee8981]

That's a genius find. Been watching since it's release and didn't notice!

[@Manotaur1]

Notice the darker of the two shadows coming from the brighter light just like in the monologue

[@LDCantGame]

@@Manotaur1 Also represents his darkness character on the sinister (left) side

[@wowoshell]

Wow!!! Amazing that an 8 year old found something so important and “new” to this 57 year old musician who has been watching this video for over 2 years didn’t see! I completely missed that!! It is indeed, a genius find. I loved your reaction to “Hi Ren”and I plan to watch more of your content . * Subbed!! 🎶

[@chilledclarity2302]

I get the feeling the reason the hopeful voice gets a handheld camera is because that hope is unsteady, almost like that hope it trying to be held onto and not let go while the illness has been around longer so it’s set it’s foundation already so it’s steady.

[@itsjonhiller]

great thoughts 👌👌

[@ShamWerks]

I've watched every reaction videos to this song I could put my hands on. Yours has the most sensible reaction as far as I'm concerned. No "like and subscribe", but "please get help, you're not alone". Thank you.

[@StonefieldJim4]

This is a watershed moment. Ren is a vital voice in contemporary art. There's no turning back. Utterly astounding, fiercely intelligent, profoundly affecting.

[@filthybstard]

I just hope he doesn't get choked or overrun by the reactor community. It seems combined there are more people watching and responding to the responders, than sitting through Ren's channel, reacting, liking and supporting it.

[@drew10981]

Of the many comments I've read across nearly 2 dozen reaction videos to this song, your comment may be the most underrated imho. Ren really is a vital voice in contemporary art and contemporary music, and unintentionally, contemporary medicine as well. His unique ability to tell a story, his story, with such incredibly high skill, with a nearly surreal range of vocal tones/musical styles/completely authentic words & lyrics. It really does leave you breathless when you take a moment to realize what we are seeing him do. If you've not seen it yet, HIGHLY recommend his video for Chalk Outlines.

[@StonefieldJim4]

@@drew10981 Many thanks. Just intuitively, I knew I had to share those thoughts. My jaw has a dropped a few times over the decades (I'm 54), but rarely has it dropped so low. P.S. I'm a psychotherapist and qualified psychiatric nurse, so yes, you won't be surprised to hear me say that the significance of this masterwork for communicating the battle with mental illness can't be underestimated.

[@827mejones]

Twenty one pilots Trench trilogy....start with jumpsuit

[@garethmackrell2304]

I won't even try to put it any better than this

[@TK-cb3jj]

He's brilliant....I sob every single time.

[@nikkit1892]

So nice to see Sam acknowledged for his work. Ren is amazing and seems to have gathered an uber talented group of people around him, Chinchilla, Sam Tompkins,The Big Push . Luv them all. ❤ from NZ

[@aprilkurtz1589]

You're the first person who has mentioned that absolutely gorgeous reverb when he quits singing. It's beautiful.

[@itsjonhiller]

🙏🙏🙏

[@stephenfarrow1351]

Agreed. You're the first person i've seen comment on it.

[@GregDaniel78]

As a busker, performing in public places like subway stations and side streets, Ren must constantly be tuned to picturing how his voice and instruments bounce off the sheer variety of urban spaces he finds himself in. Always great, but the *absolute best* example of this is the immaculate use of reverb in "Violet's Tale".

[@morganga]

Also 1st I've heard to mention the use of the hand held cam when hope is being introduced. I keep waiting for ppl to mention it 😊

[@warmfuzzyfeeling]

@@GregDaniel78 the one moment in the stairwell... "she never stood a chance"... might be the most perfect moment of sound, imagery, emotion and meaning I've ever seen. It gives me chills.

[@scottspropertyservices6877]

Just watched his video for the first time out of curiosity because the algorithm kept on pestering me. Blew my mind in every way shape & form! Straight afterwards I watched your reaction video (I am NOT usually one to watch reaction videos) enjoyed it 👏🏼 Then I thought we’ll if this was good il watch a couple others….all were very obvious they had seen them before but yours seemed extremely genuine. I take my hat off to you sir because you have changed a reaction video hater & opened my eyes. I really liked your layout & how you paused it at only when you had something necessary to say. Brilliant!

[@mabo9352]

He did this live, which makes it all the more incredible.

[@itsjonhiller]

mind-blowing.

[@patch5588]

Are you serious! That is even more impressive than the video, which is spectacular.

[@mikewest3992]

Apparently it wasn’t in one take it would’ve not been possible

[@kelo135]

It's not one take

[@DeeLayy87]

They did 4 takes, intending to choose the best one. This was number 4.

[@EldenJet]

I like when he stands up they have the light up top in the frame. and after that point there are a lot of camera flares, like there is light shining down on him.

[@VTwin4Christ]

This kid has managed to rock the world!!! Almost everyone I see doing a review is completely moved deep in their soul. This man's song has given me goose bumps almost every time I hear it. Unbelievable stuff! I hope he does more music related to similar topics

[@keywest63020]

He's not exactly a kid any longer...he us in his 30's now.

[@apaxtoa]

@@keywest63020 It's a matter of perspective, one could say that he's aged more due to his illness and having had such a rough time for so long. But you could also say that many years of a normal life was lost therefore not having lived as much as someone at that age would have. Also someone in their 50s or 60's could easily look at someone in their early thirties as a kid.

[@MMacAttack]

The silence after the song ends ….the reactors so moved by what they just seen & heard . Amazing

[@fourcornersofbrighton]

I hope there's a way that Samuel Perry-Falvey (the videographer) gets to see your reaction. He and Ren have made several absolutely wonderful videos together!

[@itsjonhiller]

👌👌👌

[@idgeet]

He did. It's pinned to the top of the comments.

[@mstash164]

The dark shadow and light shadows on the ground as well….this is stunning

[@davideastham]

Thank you for the reaction. I fell into the Ren rabbit whole a few weeks ago with this very song. It hit so hard and I can tell it did the same for you. I send you love.

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much!

[@mrintomesee]

It's one of the most powerful things i've ever seen, i cried like a baby when i first saw it and now i find myself addicted to watching it have the same impact on others, like Jonathan. You can tell Ren put his heart and soul into making this, it's a masterpiece i doubt he will better but i hope he does.

[@jimmyshea6209]

@@mrintomesee you’ll doubt he will better?

[@bodyfarmbrat]

i did the same but it started with the jenny story for me

[@merklingassoc]

Yes, thevTen rabbit hole, exactly what I've been calling it. Ren is so incredibly talented and I'm like loving all shapes and style of his music. He's a young man with a very old soul. His talent for storytelling and performing is out of this world. I pray his current path of healing brings him a full recovery. ❤️❤️❤️

[@thetalantonx]

13:40 - Thanks for sharing your truth here, also. I finally was able to make some changes in my own life, change my living situation, and get help and I have a course of action now too.

[@ChrisLawton66]

In case no one has mentioned it yet, while suffering from chronic illness, Ren rapped, sang, played guitar, acted/performed co-directed and edited the video for this amazing song he wrote. *Edit: great reaction and insight. Liked and subscribed.

[@itsjonhiller]

amazing stuff! thanks so much 🙏🙏

[@z3r0w1ng]

@@itsjonhiller Ren is currently in Canada undergoing daily treatments for the next six months...Ren is a really genuine human being.

[@celinel9750]

@@itsjonhiller The budget for this masterpiece is 1500$, recored live! Talking of genuis, he is the package deal, music, lyric, creative in evry way.

[@1fido007]

this was unedited. It is shot and released as a one-shot live recording.

[@consentofthegoverned5145]

This is a masterpiece on so many levels, and Ren has reached so many people on such a deep level. This is one of the most profound works of art I know of produced in my time of 52 years.

[@jabberjaws94]

Ive also noticed when hes talking from his darker mental state, the light is different. His face is covered in shadow, almost like a voice coming out from the darkness in his mind. Something that is to be heard, not seen, something that only *he* can hear/percieve. When hes talking/singing from his rational side, the light is more on the side of his face that is pointed towards the camera which is like the side of him that we all see.

[@timg7627]

I noticed the facial shadow and light placement as well. It’s a Very interesting detail to show each side. In addition it seems that in the ‘dark’ moments he holds and gestures the guitar almost like a weapon. Then in contrast during the ‘light’ scenes his body posture and how he holds the guitar is cowering but using the guitar as a shield instead of weapon. All of it is brilliant. I see or hear something new every time I watch.

[@gmatty2975]

One Artist acknowledging the Passion...Talent...and creativity of another. Respect!

[@Phazetic99]

hold on, hold the hell on Yeah, I'm obsessed with these reactions. The first thing you said, you pointed out how the lighting was used. Then I noticed the shadows on the ground, one darker, the other shadow a bit lighter. And then it occured to me, the line in the poem at the end of the song, "The brighter the light shone, the darker the shadow it cast" and the darker shadow was on the side of the evil Ren. Wow. That is why I watch all these reactions, thank you

[@Phazetic99]

Foreshadowing lol

[@MC_kalCM]

Precisely

[@itsjonhiller]

such good insight! thanks so much

[@FishingwithPhillips]

Your the only other person ive seen notice that. Then i noticed how the lights usually out of frame are not the same distance from the camera vs in a more symetrical placement. Thats when i figured it was probably intentional for exactly that reason.

[@CherylMaxwell-f6v]

Love your heart felt reaction. I don’t have your burden, but when I discovered Ren a few weeks ago, he truly transformed me in some way. I feel so happy to witness his genius.

[@IAM_Reedy]

When he is evil Ren his movements and mannerisms are bold, carefree and mocking. In good Ren his movements are conservative, measured and timid. The only time he physically looks directly into the camera is during the empowerment section of the song. But at the end of the song he ends as he started, singing harmonies and the chaos of the light and shadows retuned as if to indicate he was not healed but he accepted the conflict. He confirms this in his monologue. Whomever directed this video understood the deep meaning of the song and interpreted it beautifully.

[@char_lou]

I believe Ren directed it himself, and it was all shot live in one take.

[@itsjonhiller]

🙏🙏🙏

[@NickG1010]

@@char_lou hi, just wondering , i have seen this one take argument a few times, but how can you explain the camera angles between 9:50 & 10:10 ? It certainly sounds as this is shot in 1 take but i really wonder how they can do these camera angles when they zoom out , there is no camera he is facing in the up-close shot. please correct me :)

[@Lloocii]

@@NickG1010 It's been done in at least 2 live takes. A one-take would be impressive but imo would actually lessen the impact and creativity that they've managed to capture. Nevertheless the song, message and scene would still be great in a one-take but this clearly isn't. If I had to guess by the shots and scenes it's about 70% of take 1 and 30% of take 2.

[@char_lou]

@@NickG1010 Ah yes, more than one camera. I meant Ren himself performed it all in one take, and the camera work has been edited post filming (if I understood correctly). eta: perhaps I'm wrong 🤔 In any case, technicalities aside, Hi Ren remains a brilliant work of art.

[@SherriCarroll-e3p]

Beautiful reaction thank you for using a private side of yourself ensuring it to help others I think Ren would love this reaction!!! It is my favorite. Thank you

[@streetninjas313]

You instantly became one of my favourite reactors due to the unique and expert perspective you bring coming from a film maker background. I have a degree in Media Production but you blow my mind with some of your insights and cause me to look at the videos you react to in a completely different way. I have watched this video sooo many times through reactions but never noticed half the camera techniques you pointed out! Also I recently realised I have ADHD and am planning to seek a diagnosis to try and help me manage it so your comment at the end really hit home man, thank you! Now you've reacted to Hi Ren you MUST react to The Tales of Jenny & Screech followed by Violet's Tale (all in one video). They are truly cinematic and storytelling masterpieces I would LOVE to hear your thoughts on them!

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much for this comment, and i'm so glad you're getting help to manage your ADHD. so so appreciate you!

[@mistyramsey1840]

@Jonathan Hiller Awesome getting a breakdown like that on this masterpiece. It's sad when beautiful details like those you pointed out are lost because people don't know how to see them. You reveal all this extra depth for us and make sure the work gets its due appreciation ❤ PLEASE do Jenny and Screech, I would love to see your breakdown on that absolute beast of a performance 👏🙌❤️‍🔥

[@Spotastic9]

@J D I would encourage looking at ADDitude magazine online. It has a lot of articles that can help you long before getting a diagnosis. I'm autistic and ADHD and a neurodiversity advocate, so they are my go-to place I send people who are also ADHDers to go to. I also agree with everything else you said. The Tales are hard to watch for me because of my own trauma, but the story and cinematograpy is great.

[@streetninjas313]

@@Spotastic9 Thanks very much for making me aware of this. I also consider myself as having both ADHD and Autism so I'm sure it'll be very useful!

[@sabijea]

@@itsjonhiller please !!! you have to react to the trilogy make sure you visualise them in the right order, it is a master piece(s) in story telling ! including filming and acting ! all of them one take live !!!

[@stagghouses4826]

Wow, you were deconstructing it brilliantly, calmy, professionally and then Ren's poem at the end, i saw the tear roll down your cheek.... very moving.

[@anonymousanonymous2625]

One of the most striking cinematic moments for me is something no one else seems to notice. At the moment when Ren finishes his defiant answer to his dark side, he turns and puts his guitar down, and the light plays across his beautiful neck, lighting every vertebra, and looking so very vulnerable and tender in contrast to his bravery a moment before. I just want to reach out and lay my hand on the back of his neck in comfort and solidarity.

[@TorchTheWitchbaby]

I always see that too- his spine seems so fragile when he does this. It evokes a protectiveness almost ...like 'maybe don't turn your back just yet Ren' but his faith is confident and gives me breath.

[@anonymousanonymous2625]

@@TorchTheWitchbaby I am so glad to know that I am not the only one who has this reaction to that image. For a while I thought it was just me being weird.

[@anonymousanonymous2625]

I am glad to know I am not alone in this feeling. I really want to comfort that vu!nerability

[@somethingsunting]

It was great to get a take on the filming side of things. Samuel Perry-Falvey is the guy behind the camera, he's done a lot of Ren's stuff that is absolutely worth checking out. I recommend the tale of Jenny and Screech (full) if you wanna get into them a little more. Also very much loved the genuine emotion at the end there.

[@itsjonhiller]

👌👌👌

[@DavidLindes]

Yeah, the camera falling in that one, late in act 2? fucking brilliant.

[@bethellen1962]

Ren is talented alright. That was a one-take. A lot of his songs are one-takes for authenticity. He also does most of his own beats and pre and post production. His catalogue is huge and diverse: RAP, rock, soul, storytelling folk, retakes and covers. His lyrical skills are unmatched by any contemporary artists. He had an excellent band called The Big Push that did mostly covers with some originals. I recommend their version of War Pigs and I Shot the Sheriff as well as a couple of originals: Icarus and Swan Song. For solo work: The Hunger, Genesis, The Tale of Jenny and Screech (all three parts) and maybe The Money Game (all three parts). Additionally, he collaborated with Chinchilla on two gorgeous tracks Chalk Outlines and How to Be Me. That’s barely scratching the surface. Welcome to the Ren Rabbithole. Enjoy the ride. Just to clarify, Ren is not mentally ill. He went through almost ten years of misdiagnosis from bipolar disorder to M.E. only to find out that he had Lymes disease. At its worst point, his sickness made him so ill he couldn’t get out of bed for almost a year. He was very weak and severely underweight because he couldn’t keep a lot of food down. In past two years, he has received stem transplants to help repair some of the damage done by having untreated Lyme disease for so long. He is now doing much better though he still deals with Chronic Pain and Autoimmunity that severely limits his diet. He went through Hell and chose to learn from the experience and kindly pass on his wisdom to others. He is an Artist in the best sense of the word. #freesickboi 😊💜😊

[@CommonSenseBodybuilding]

The fact that Ren and those involved are so engaged and open to discussion is so wholesome and exactly the kind of treatment all artists should aim for with their fans

[@colorlessoz]

This is my second time hearing this song and both have been in reaction videos. And it still is pretty awesome.

[@itsjonhiller]

👌👌👌

[@JennyAnton]

Great reaction. I have watched Ren busking many times over the last seven years in Brighton (UK) and one of the great things that has come out of his talent finally being recognised globally is how he is helping to break down the barriers of mental health stigma and this is encouraging others to share their own issues.

[@itsjonhiller]

incredible. i bet he’s fantastic live

[@JennyAnton]

@@itsjonhiller Mesmerising.

[@malcolmpercival4504]

The emotion and feeling he elicits from EVERYone who sees this is unparalleled - I loved how it moved you in the same way I was touched. The final call to camera is simply something else, Unique.

[@Just-wiggling-thru-life]

New here 👋 and clearly late to the game lol but wants to stop and say Loved this reaction ❤️. Thank you so much for blessing me and so many others I see too. 🙏🏻 ~~~Bless you I understand this pain a bit and so so so many other types of pain. I’m so glad you were able to find help. My OCD is less severe (thankfully) but man my son struggles in ways I will never fully understand. I’ll never forget the first time a documentary “found me” that explained OCD in a way that broke me beyond explanation and I went to my son and cried and cried with him as he then began to open up to me in EVERY.SINGLE.WAY that it had been haunting him. It’s like the veil had been lifted and I was able to fully (as much as humanly possible without knowing it to his degree firsthand) see the pain he endured EVERY.SINGLE.DAY!! It was such a monumental moment for my son and I. I am honored to be his mama for sure but even more so to be taught so much by his pure innocent heart. 💜 ~~~I have Bipolar disorder and a SLEW of chronic illnesses. It’s so so so hard. I am honored to have witnessed your reaction to RENs masterpiece of pain AND beauty both and in turn your own vulnerability and absolutely paramount statement ~ It is indeed of utmost importance that we DON’T EVER stop talking about our struggles (or”wiggles” 😉)whether mental or physical~which by default equals emotional/mental. Thank you for your reaction, vulnerability and encouragement for us to keep sharing so others know they are NOT alone either. God Bless you sir 🫡 Oh and of course 👍🏻 ✍️ 🛎️ 😉 😘

[@moneyblackblood]

As somewhat of a filmmaker myself (previsualization and animated film director) this is the reaction I have been waiting for.I so wanted to hear other experienced peoples' opinions on the excellent cinematographic choices in this piece. Ren is a genius, which everyone gets, but so are the people planning and executing his video shoots, even in his single camera videos like "Chalk Outlines" have compelling camera work. Thanks for the great reaction!

[@itsjonhiller]

thanks so much!

[@kimzwolinski9919]

I saw this 5 days ago for the first time. I have watched more reactions to this than I can count at this point. The best thing about it has been seeing so many people really relate to what Ren is saying 😊❤ I still actually feel it every time. I also found your observations from a film maker’s perspective very interesting. Thank you for sharing part of your story ❤

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much!

[@brad_in_yyc]

Everyone should be able to relate in some way. Illness or not. We all have this doubting, deceitful voice that tries to pull us the other way. Creators have imposter syndrome which is one part of it (just for a little perspective, but I don't think I could come close to being able to give it full perspective like he's done here). But we've all got this. But it is definitely MUCH louder for some people. And I think they find that relation much easier. But Ren touches on it in his video. "I'm the snake in Eden" He's talking about temptation. Which we all experience. The 7 sins, right? Beautifully written, directed and filmed. I'm with you, I've been immersed in this video.

[@Gabe_blueyesfans]

Amazing video! Seeing from a perspective of a film maker is tottaly different! Thank you!

[@itsjonhiller]

so glad you enjoyed it!

[@kiarasp8190]

Great reaction! I would love to see your point of view for Ren's "The tale of Jenny and Screech (full)". It's a trilogy of songs, he is an amazing storyteller and I think you'd enjoy a lot from a filmmaker's perspective!

[@cas9065]

That would be brilliant!

[@123mountaingirl]

Yes! I agree with this! Completely worth the 13+ minutes. Ren is a master storyteller, modern day bard! And interesting from the film making too! Hats off to Samuel Perry-Falvey, a creative talent in his own right!

[@zachhenderson7982]

I also want this. I think the trilogy is good enough to be made into a full production movie.

[@lizzyfletcher3175]

Yes please!!

[@PrathiGram]

My man Love from Sri Lanka! next react to Ren - The Tale of Jenny & Screech (full) as a filmakers point I think it will be a damn good one

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much! greetings from the states

[@Dstinii]

I love watching the trilogy as a 'film' of excellence! It's just done soooo well.

[@thetalantonx]

12:15 - Watching the first time someone experiences this moment is a powerful thing, and watching it hit you and wash over you and through you choked me up as much as it did the first time I experienced this.

[@tjh5716]

Great reaction. I noticed that while you started to, and wanted to break down the cinematic beauty and understated symbolism, the power of the song took you to another place. This is pure art. Your reaction was poignant and heartfelt. Thanks.

[@bestmemorylossmethod7010]

I never looked at it like that. It is so intriguing to have your view point as a filmmaker. I noticed the lights. BUT you're mentioning the difference from a tripod to hand held is so fascinating. It makes me now look at videos like this differently. Thank you.

[@gspianoguitar4369]

Well such informed insight from you, For me as a musician such a different perspective to give us - the visual impact of this powerful statement. I think this magical but disturbing work of art from Ren has grabbed us all and what I have noticed most of all is that the deepest reactions are in fact silence! How lucky are we that he has created such an expressive form to communicate his difficulties to us all. Truly inspirational

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much for the detailed comment. truly appreciate it

[@s.wilson5199]

As someone who hates to ask for help, hearing you identify it as humbling completely resonated with me. Sharing the positive outcome of taking that step encourages me to be more open to doing so myself. Thank you for being willing to expose your struggle alongside your strength and expertise. Today wasn't the first time I watched your reaction; I'm not even sure why I chose to do so again. However, today, I HEARD you message in a way that I glossed over the last time. Thank you for the humility, honesty, and strength you demonstrate by sharing.❤

[@Foxsuper1]

ikr...what gentle moment ❤

[@Foxsuper1]

❤

[@grimmliberty7447]

Also the aqua/cyan and rust/orange colors make the lamp shades, his face, and guitar stand out more. I'm just a simple guy but I noticed that. Anyhow, thanks for your reaction, subbed. (I also think showing the upper light when he says he's immoral also, giving him a halo, is intentional.)

[@TheJustcae]

You have an honest face in your reaction and I very much appreciate that. If the past year has been the best you've had so far, I can only say that I wish you continued growth and happiness in the years to come. I won't pretend that I have some impact on that beyond being subscribed to your KZbin, and consuming the art you share here. Best wishes Jonathan.

[@itsjonhiller]

🙏🙏🙏

[@periurban]

THANK YOU! You are the only reactor I've seen so far who mentions the reverb! It was such a sweet touch.

[@itsjonhiller]

👍👍👍

[@BestNewsClips]

One of the best reaction videos to this song I've seen. I feel like I gained a bunch of insider knowledge to how this was made & why.... much respect 🙏

[@itsjonhiller]

🙏🙏🙏

[@HannaGhost]

I love SO VERY MUCH to finally hear a reactor comment so quickly about that flickering light. That detail is so very good and so very important. Thank you!

[@itsjonhiller]

🙏🙏🙏

[@Brndndutton]

Such a powerful song. Ren is an amazing artist with a beautiful and healing message.

[@DCProductionsYTC]

To watch Ren grow over the last 8 years has been amazing to see him go from Brighton to this pure art form!

[@RedlineVenom]

Thank you for this reaction, your content is insightful as a filmmaker but it's actually really interesting to see how a an insider to the craft can be so moved by a work of art like this. Keep up what your doing, subscribed

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you! 🙏🙏🙏

[@RedlineVenom]

@@itsjonhiller and may I humbly recommend: Falling in Reverse - "The Drug in me is Reimagined"

[@Jay-ik1pt]

Hey man, thanks for the video! Your commentary putting me in a cinematography mindset in combination with PrymalChaos' commentary about where Ren is looking during a certain part of the video had me notice something, and I figure I ought to post it here as well both because you were half of the reason I noticed and because I figure you'd find it interesting. I just copy-pasted it, so it's still written as if addressing him, and you'll have to forgive me if I misunderstood your commentary or misuse any technical terms; I'm not involved with photograhpy or videography in any way myself. Pretty sure I *did* misuse dolly-zoom; I remembered afterwards that that's a specific thing, and what I actually meant was dolly-in. Anyways, copied comment starts here: I've been going through a bunch of these reactions to Hi Ren from different channels and picking up bits and pieces of detail as reactors and commentators point them out; there was a comment you made that I'd like to (try to) expound on, since I likely wouldn't have connected the dots if you hadn't pointed that out. Apologies for the wall of text, hopefully it's worth it. You mentioned after the hope character stood up about how it was there that it was the first time he looked straight into the camera and connects directly with the audience - after he stands... almost but not quite. For the majority of the video as his two sides are playing off each other and building on each others energy, positive and negative as they push back on each other and they both come back more vehemently each time, he's looking almost exclusively left, right, or down. That is, either at his other self, his guitar, or nothing (also notice he tends to look at his hands as he plays mostly when he's in the positive, somewhat anxious "light" character). This is Ren's internal struggle. We the audience watch on, separate. After the "light" Ren tries to suppress "dark" Ren once and for all, fails, and dark Ren takes control back - he's no longer looking exclusively at his other side. As he says "I am the snake in Eden" his head flips from side-on to head-on with the center camera. Not looking at it yet, but toward it. Next the shot switches to the right side camera which shows him looking head on at where the front camera would be, but not at our viewpoint. It jumps next to the left side camera as he raises his right arm and looks across the frame almost but not quite across center frame to settle on his hand, then back towards the center-front camera position. From there we switch to that center-front viewpoint again, but far enough away that it's tough to tell if he's looking into the camera or merely towards it, and anyway his face is shrouded in shadow as the camera dolly-zooms in. Next, before we get close enough to really clearly see his eyes we switch to right-side view and he again looks towards, across and up from what would be the new center frame. Then center-front camera as he looks forwards but above the active camera. Then left side as he's again staring dead on forward towards the camera we're not looking through. This sort of almost but not quite looking right at the audience continues throughout this section as dark Ren escalates and claims himself to be essentially primordial immortal pure evil. That whole section serves to subtly and progressively strip away whatever feeling of separation from the scene the audience feels while unsettling us. Pulling us in, breaking that fourth wall subconsciously and adding to that whole general unsettling feeling of that entire section. Jack Nicholson's character in The Shining does something similar. Throughout the entirety of the movie Nicholson looks directly into the camera for just a few frames before looking away. He's the only character who does, he does it repeatedly across the film, never more than once per shot, and it's never addressed. Its as if both Nicholson and dark Ren are acknowledging the audience is there without deigning to address them. You're not safe from what's going on in the shot, you, the audience are part of it. In the next sequence, Ren as Hope raises his head towards the camera and says "Just as sure as the night has dawn", his eyes lock dead on to the active camera as he utters "dawn". There's no evasion, no subtle look near the camera, he looks right at us as if to say "I see you. I'm addressing you as well". Throughout the sequence with Ren as Hope, he looks straight ahead and level but doesn't look directly back into center frame of the active camera until after he stands and he utters "...floor. And I go by many names also...". From here, he's locked onto the camera for the majority of the shots. As if to say, I see you, I'm speaking to you, I know you. The camera is also handheld for the majority of the shots after he stands. Where before we had a cinematic experience from a tripod; the shot at least was fairly stable, clinical, a view into this scene from afar - now it's more real, more personal as he stares at the audience and says that he won't be defeated. He's looking straight at the audience as he says "You know how I know that I'll prosper? Because I stand here beside you today" Speaking to his dark side and the audience in equal measure. Standing beside us as well. A filmmaker points out in another reaction I watched that these closeup handheld shots are performed physically close up, with a wide lens. It serves to still show a lot of the background but brings the audience closer in to the subject. Less room to breathe. Closer. More personal. Now he puts his guitar down, long since having stripped any audience separation away on a subconscious level, now speaking directly and exclusively to the audience about his own internal struggle, and as he finishes it all he states "I must remember, WE must remember that we are human beings". Driving that nail of connection firmly in, including us EXPLICITLY. *WE.* We are human beings. He says this immediately after defining the separation between humans, angels, demons, and gods as being the "eternal dance", which immediately before that he defined as his struggles with mental health. His struggle with the light and dark inside himself. Without actually speaking the words, he says to us the audience: "I see you. I know you struggle. It's okay. It's going to be okay. We're all human. We all struggle. You're not alone". He and the videographer have been progressively working towards disarming the audience, and the message is that much more powerful because of it. From the moment he speaks his first "Hi Ren", he's put himself and his self doubt on display for all to see, bearing his soul to us. Here we are at the end, feeling equally transparent, as if we've been looking into a mirror the whole time as the mirror stares back somehow. Incredible.

[@elyob]

This song is quite incredible. I've watched many reaction videos to this, but yours hits the nail on the head. And the first I've responded to. The video was done on a tiny budget, but is so impressive. So much to read into it. It's opened my mind to other people's issues with more empathy I ever had before.

[@MexiSean]

I'm so glad you reacted to this one. No one I've seen has mentioned the handheld camera motion at the end. I think was suppose to reference something about the good and evil in his head

[@cas9065]

That was a beautiful reaction. Thank you for enriching our understanding with your perspective. Sam Perry-Falvey, also from the UK, is the producer and director of photography. I would love to hear your thoughts on The Tale of Jenny and Screech, also low budget but amazing cinematographic storytelling.

[@itsjonhiller]

nice! thanks so much for the tip

[@cas9065]

@@itsjonhiller Really appreciate the information for help at the end.

[@robchristopher7718]

Much love out to you all!

[@gatornation1209]

OMG this was intense. Absolutely beautiful. Another great reaction

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you

[@Legoideaswithcamden]

One thing I love is at the start when he sings the lights are normal and his guitar strumming was smooth. And at the end he said you are a coin to a different side. Then strummed more chaotic at the end with the lights flashing while he sang. I feel like accepting both sides to himself and knowing his will shall carry him forward! Great reaction!

[@georgesaunders3532]

Wow, I've watched so many reaction videos to this song, but this is by far the most deeply insightful, emotional one I've watched. Your skills as a film maker shines through and picks up on the intricacy of the song and video like no one else has been able to. The intensity of the strumming as he switches between his sub conscious and conscious minds is so refreshing compared to other reaction videos. This song is art, so to note the real artistic expression in it is just amazing to hear. Thank you for this!

[@JackieDaytona_HB]

Thanks for being open and sharing your battle 🙏🙏🙏

[@itsjonhiller]

more openness.. more awareness. thank you so much

[@JackieDaytona_HB]

@@itsjonhiller You've welcome. I loved the NF and HI Ren vids can't wait to see more. 👍

[@embee221b]

New sub here, Jonathan. Firstly, thank you for your vulnerability. The more we openly discuss our shadows the more we can heal and integrate. Secondly, I appreciated the filmmaker's perspective immensely. I'm definitely checking out more of your work. Lastly, Ren is incredible. A bard for the times. I hope you check out more of his work.

[@itsjonhiller]

🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@UKDevice]

One of the better reaction videos to this song/video. Thanks.

[@cosmicdebris5260]

I have been blessed to have been listening to Ren for several years! I know that seemed really dark Hi Ren but he is really an uplifting guy! With an incredible sense of humor! He is the modern-day Minstrel musical poet!🌿💔

[@itsjonhiller]

incredible! thanks for the comment

[@MarkYoungRJ]

I'd never heard this song and now I'm sitting here in tears. Such a powerful video. Thank you for sharing your struggles as well! Much respect.

[@rebeccareed-olla960]

When I was a teenager, and had my psychotic break, we all listened to The Wall, by Pink Floyd. The raw pain appealed. Ren gets it way closer to the root. I’m very grateful to feel understood. I pray he gets healthy again. ❤

[@KCsFunHouse]

Everything about this is gold! You can feel his words and the visual representation pulls everything together.

[@mistymorning436]

Thank you so much for your reaction! You and Ren brought me to tears. Years of untreated PTSD have disrupted my life. You are right, there are others and there is help. Thank you for reaching out to others!

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much for the share, and i wish the best for you!

[@BeverlyWatkins-e4f]

I didn't even have to see the frame. The music and words told me exactly what was happening. Touched my heart. The dance. Amazing. Loved it ❤

[@annfarmer9704]

This brilliant masterpiece is so important, it not only gives a voice to those unable to articulate what they are experiencing but it also creates a window for others who do not understand the struggles those with mental health issues have. It also creates a starting point for communication. There is one more of rens masterpieces that you have to experience, especially since your background is in film, it is jenny & screech's tale (FULL). I personally would love to see this one in a theater. You HAVE TO DO THIS ONE. Dive in, it is sooooo worth it

[@jenniferwolk2965]

I've been following Ren's music for years and I love what he does because he gives a space to people and issues that otherwise tend to get swept under the carpet. I didn't know you before - sorry - but you also crept into my heart within these 14 minutes of the video. This honest and sensitive reaction, concluded with your comment "There is help, don't give up on yourself". touched me so much. As a music lover, as a once sufferer of mental illness, and not to forget .... as a human being ... I am so moved by what Ren's song, what Ren's video has triggered. All these reaction videos that show "You are not alone. I know these struggles too, even if my life seems so perfect on the outside". Thank you. ♥

[@mercedeswarrenash5929]

Thank you for this reaction. It’s nice to know how many people relate to REN’s struggle. I’ve dealt with chronic illness the majority of my life as well as mental illness in turn. When you mentioned the lighting I’m surprised that you didn’t mention the cinematic reference. When he’s in conflict or expressing the darker side he’s gaslighting himself. I also realized that when he’s speaking his truth at the end that his face is in shadow, occasionally being lit up as he speaks. We must not forget we are human beings and give ourselves and others grace.

[@juliediamond3003]

Interesting gaslighting observation!

[@strive4impact]

Hey Jonathan! I'm Jonathan too. Spelled the right way. 🙂 Love the video commentary as I know very little about proper film techniques, but would like to know more. New subscriber to you today. "The more kinetic action happens in the frame" are not words I've heard before, but totally make sense to me. You at 11:20 was me on a while other level at 9:10 "Loose in the noose on the rope". The first time I heard this song, I bawled. Uncontrollably. For the person I was... the person who hated me so much. I didn't even know I needed to release a 2014 attempted suicide (on a particularly bad night in 2014). But this song helped me do that. Thank you for so openly sharing your reaction and experience with the song. For the past year, but especially since first seeing this song last November, Ren has been a significant part of my integration journey. His music has been transformative for me. Today, I posted my version called "Hi Jonathan". Would love any thoughts you would have on it if you have a few minutes to watch. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGqkqn-vlKmdmqc

[@AliCatzRR]

Beautiful heartfelt reaction Thank you for this.

[@itsjonhiller]

🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@mongoosemcmongoose2786]

I went through the OCD pinnacle in 2020 as well, being home on furlough x4 months. my wife finally told me to get help or we were done for. i've been on a path and working towards getting better since with help. my ocd, anxiety, and ADHD are more under control now, but will always be a constant battle I have to fight. This video hit me so hard when I saw it, I'm glad it made it's way to you as well, and I'm glad you're getting help too. much love.

[@JuhoAlbert]

Hello Jonathan! I haven't even got to the end of your reaction, but i already went and scrolled your videos for reaction to Ren - Story of Jenny & Screech & Violet and was surprised i couldn't find it. If you have not yet seen it, i can comfortably say that you are in for a treat once again. It is mesmerizing in the way the story takes you along, and the ending has not failed to surprise anyone so far, not one. Cheers for this reaction and hope to see more!

[@77Littlelady]

12"36... Your reaction Jonahan is priceless. You cannot fake it. Ren's performance is so profound. and honest. A real tear-jerker I can relate to for different health issues. It speaks to me like it looks like it speaks to you too.

[@axemanchris]

I did seek help in early 2021 and found out that I have ADHD and suddenly it all made sense. My extreme depression and extreme anxiety was killing me and it got to the point to where I wanted to leave this Earth, but I have 2 young boys that need me. They are the ones that have kept me alive. Being a performing musician made it harder. Counseling was great and now I'm with out insurance and going through a divorce and basically struggling to maintain my course. Ren's video helps me see it. My meds are gone, my support is gone. I'm all alone with this and I'm just trying to make it to bed everyday. This song is my life and it touches me so deeply.

[@davidhager5206]

I am 49 been dealing with it for 30 plus years. Just keep pushing

[@IratePuffin]

It is so amazing watching the impact this song is having on everyone. When I first found it, there were only a few reactions to it. Every day for weeks I have searched for new reactions and I’ve loved watching the impact it’s having.

[@janesrossa1796]

Hello and thank you very much for your reaction! That was such a true heartfelt reaction!

[@delici0usdem0n]

Great reaction vid. I was already besotted with Hi Ren, and having watched some of his other output and collaborations, think Ren is kind of extraordinary artist, and human. But your observations about camera movements were really interesting and made me love it even more. Respect to you for sharing a clearly quite emotional experience.

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much 🙏🙏🙏

[@BastianJuste]

Thank you for being so vulnerable with us. It was beautiful!

[@timb350]

So happy to hear someone commenting on the production of this awesome video. There is no doubt that Ren is a singularly (and significantly) talented musician, performer, and lyricist... but the whole production of this video just hits the thing out of the park! The staging, the lighting, the choreography (and all your observations about the camera work add a whole other layer to the story)...and has anyone else noticed that the entire thing is done LIVE! How many video's does anyone record live audio...ever...especially these days (auto-tune, massive compression, computer-generated backing tracks...IOW...absolutely NO SOUL)????? And not only that...but it sounds really good!

[@Alykzandria]

Subbing here because of Ren

[@klausbruner1392]

I like your videos, it gives a totally new perspective to what an author wanted to show or wanted us to feel I'm glad you've decided to start this channel 🔥

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much! so glad you are enjoying it.

[@independentunityreacts]

I am so glad you got help, so glad you do these videos to show some of us a thing or two about film making. I appreciate your kind words and your wisdom.

[@dennisr.4918DennyDesigns]

Looking forward to this! Wow! I learn so much just watching you analyze video content. Thank you again Jonathan. I think I have to watch one of your videos a day so keep it coming. Some more NF would be great, but really anything you do is superb. Thanks. I love the way Ren is so humbled after the breakout from the dark, he seems to have relaxed. And then he gives us the "punchline" which is brilliant.

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much! will keep it coming.

[@joncreamer6372]

Really appreciate the reaction from your field of expertise.

[@itsjonhiller]

🙏🙏🙏

[@dennisvernonhaydock]

Thanks for your perspective. The videographer, along with Ren are doing something I've never seen before. I'm obviously not the only one to tell you to take a look at The Tale of Jenny and Screech. I recommend watching the "full" version rather than viewing each tale separately. You can find it on Ren's YT page.

[@lorraineclaasen7318]

Bless you, Jonathan, for an authentic and genuine reaction to Hi Ren. Some 'reactors' (I don't know if that is a word) uses videos/songs gaining traction to almost exploit the vulnerability of these artists, only to use as content for views. Instead, you entrusted your viewers with some of your true truth. Thank you. Just subscribed to your channel and looking forward to see more of you work. Stay safe.

[@lyntonwp]

Absolutely loved this! I knew you’d bring something different with your reaction. Really interesting noting the hand held camera which I’d not consciously noticed in previous viewings. Also thank you for being open and sharing your story with us. I was crying right along with you at the end there, but the smile on my face when you said the last year has been the best of your life, so happy you’ve found something that works for you. Keep up the great content! As others have said, the tale of Jenny and screech (full) is worth adding to your list if you’re down for more Ren content

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much for the support! deeply appreciated

[@spoonerson1103]

Right-no one expected that- hats off to you- hats off to ren. The world is changing-

[@Jayveel]

I’ve watched, and loved, all your reactions and was hoping you’d do this. Been a fan of Ren for years. Incredible how he can make a filmmaker reacting to cinematography still feel his performance this hard. I’d love to see you react to Sick boi, which is the sister video to this one. I think the video has way more talking points for you than this, even though this is more impactful, sick boi is an amazing performance and video.

[@itsjonhiller]

thank you so much 🙏🙏🙏

[@matt_neil_music]

Mate I’m with you on this. I had the same reaction and similar history as you described. Being a musician and photographer your analysis was spot on. Thank you for taking the time to make this review.

[@ratmackay]

I was so hoping that you would react to this because I've been praising the cinematography of it and wanted to hear the thoughts from someone who actually knows what they're talking about in that regard. Class reaction and I'm so glad that you have gotten good help and are in a better place. 2020 kicked off a bad year for everyone, but the time since has been especially hard on neurodivergent folks.

[@itsjonhiller]

so so true. thanks so much for your support 🙏🙏

[@SamuelPerryFalvey]

Thank you! Glad you liked our video! As neurodivergent myself so glad it's been resonating with people as much as it did with me when I first heard it and when we made the video.

[@ratmackay]

@@SamuelPerryFalvey I've got that spicy ADHD/Autism combo platter and it's been a minute since anything hit me as hard as this. I've been sharing it with everyone I know and all the ND folks are really clicking with it. I know the song is deeply personal to Ren and his experience, but the negative side has really captured for me what it's like to constantly be criticised by neurotypical folks for not communicating/relating/existing in a way that they would prefer. Which, of course, my anxiety plays on repeat in the brainmeats. It proper gutted me and I needed a couple of days to process it the first time I watched. It's art...on every level...and everyone involved should be very proud. Thank you and thank Ren.

[@RoughRaiders13]

8:16 I love that the camera starts low and when Ren stands the camera then pans up simulating the viewer standing up with him.

[@FinarfinNoldorin]

I always liked the sound of rap, but not the violence it brought with it. This young man is phenomenal. He is addressing a great need for change in our society in the caring for others who are struggling not only with their health, but also with other things that we are facing today as a whole. Songs like this shed light on what needs to be done, and how it can be achieved with unity and love for each other instead of hate that is being promoted by the "powers that be."

[@1individeo]

The reason there is violence in Rap music is because unlike other genres of music that take you out of reality, rap or punk music goal is often to do the opposite: remind you how reality really is. While other styles make you dream, hiphop and punk wake you up. It's like the Blue/Red pill thing. Where other styles are blue, rap and punk are red. But I totally agree with you there should be more of this... on mainstream. Because outside mainstream there is a lot of things happening. This song becomes special because it serves you both the Red and Blue pills, but tells you at the end that both are RIGHT and both WRONG. In a few words: the Yin-Yang.

[@sebastiank.3894]

Thank you for your incredibly honest reaction.

[@HMan2828]

Guys, Ren is having a difficult time at the moment, please take the time to go to his community page on youtube, read his latest post, and if you can, and if Ren's music touched your soul like it did mine, donate to his GoFundMe to help him pay for his medical costs. Even 5$ helps.

[@gamer9]

Wow how hasn’t he be signed?

[@Rain_theGamer]

omg you reacted to it! thank you! thannnk you!