TAEMIN 태민 'WANT' MV REACTION | DG REACTS

[@nabilanaznin5611]

Hi! I love your reactions and interpretations, and this is one of my favorite songs by Taemin so I wanted to share some of my own interpretations. So the song starts with Taemin wearing a red outfit and holding snakes, which I think is a direct biblical reference to when Eve was seduced by a snake to taste the forbidden fruit (later Taemin directly sings about the forbidden apple), and the way Taemin dances is also very snake-like and seductive. So, essentially, Taemin is Lucifer, like you said, he's tempting Eve into committing a sin, tempting her to follow her desires and taste the forbidden fruit (the lyrics "creating the definition of heat, from instinct to reasoning -- referring to when Eve is convinced that she needs to taste the fruit because instinct turns to reasoning and leaves rationality behind) by constantly telling her that she's been asleep in a deep sea, that she's thirsty and once she tastes the fruit, it'll leave her wanting more (It could be a him too but staying true to biblical references here.). The thing you said about Taemin being the perfect being and yet the undertones of him being a demon or the devil is also very prominent in the visuals. Like Lucifer, Taemin's visuals here is stunning and tempting and the power he holds in his fingertips is immense. Very much like in the biblical texts, he is Lucifer tempting Eve to "wake up from the silence under your deep see". (You probably didn't notice but Karina from AESPA is in this video, the solo woman dancing in the shadows). The t or the cross you mentioned is probably not a symbolism for Jesus but for Taemin. T is for Taemin, that is his signature pose and he has done that in a lot of other MVs. Now, here is the mindboggling part -- this MV very much coincides with the SMCU theories. I don't know if you've watched any fan theories about SMCU but I think Kookielit has done one in a very comprehensive manner where they explained the SM Culture Universe story where Taemin is thought to be the ultimate villain or bad guy or king of hell of sorts. He is the original devil or demon trying to seduce everyone, trying to get everyone under his control and he is very powerful. The eclipse in this MV can be connected to EXO's storyline, and Karina being here and playing a symbolic role of Eve can be directly connected to AESPA's storyline where we see Karina being hacked or seduced by the Black Mamba, which is, if we put two and two together -- Taemin, the snake, or Taemin's henchman/woman, the snake being Taemin's persona or spirit. The entire SMCU storyline, not just of Kwangya, but the entire SM universe, is incredible and I really hope you'll check it out someday. It's pretty dope world-building with lots of references and meanings. I'm sorry for the super long comment, but I hope this gets you interested to learn more about SM's way of incorporating art and literature because it truly is very underappreciated. Have a great day!

[@ireneserrano4570]

Taemin also appears like an evil mastermind in SuperM, the group teasers, and in relation to SuperM's One (Monster & Infinity) and the The Matrix trilogy references where we can guess Taemin would be like the "Architect" from the series, the designer of the whole virtual world/reality. This also connects to NCT being kind of like hackers to the system, playing between both "worlds", as we saw in the Sticker comeback specially in the previous promotional pictures and videos, with the 'Green Screen' theme, where as you know, is used for special effects and you project there whatever images and create a Virtual reality where the persons are inmeersed; they also had promo videos where they are literally working with computers and one of the members hack the security cams and they appear like in a parallel reality

[@ikeeneye]

I honestly think it's possible that all of SHINee are potentially evil with the exception of Onew? Especially in 'Don't Call Me', during the red scene when Minho raps, red plastic behind taemin during the bridge, and the sunset with key wearing all red (also relates to his Gasoline comeback) - What's even more odd is after Key released Gasoline, 2 baddies seemed to have references to him in the video and lyrics (Yuta's fire fingernails, and "fill up the tank pour the gasoline on me"). I also think 2 baddies had references to Irene & Seulgi during the bridge - and the common theme they seem to have with 2 versions of one person existing like in 28 reasons, she also seems to have a connection to the 'red force" in this MV like Taemin does in this one.)

[@marinal.]

ty for this.

[@autumneagle]

Want, Move and Criminal are some of my favorite songs. Taemin is a genius

[@DGReacts]

Just me getting bamboozled by Taemin once again, if I made any sense at all, cool, if not, I'm sure you guys can share a bit of info on the meaning behind the MV, this is just my first impression/interpretation of the MV :) Thank you for your patience guys, it's been a while since the last Taemin reaction :)

[@KaraIblis]

I can see why it would become intimidating, but I love your reactions and that you look for symbolism, it makes you one of the most intriguing reactors to watch along with; Especially on a song that Taemin puts out, who loves to put in symbolism.

[@Kylie4Queen]

You made sense and I’m always amazed at how intuitive you are. I’ve been watching for a few months, but your admiration of Taemin in this reaction made me a subscriber today😊

[@volumeup631]

i miss him..he needs to comeback asap !!

[@guilhermenovo8967]

Every time I watch any Taemin MV or listen to his music I go to twitter to see how much longer we will need to wait for his dischargement from the military. The new date is march 31st, it's close but so far !!!!

[@yasminedhm5292]

yeah😭

[@yasminedhm5292]

@@guilhermenovo8967 are you sure it's not march 5th?

[@dantexpiers9662]

TAEMIN IS THE BEST OF THE BEST THE KING OF ALL TIME

[@jomills4103]

Thank you so much for reacting to "Want"!! This is probably my favourite Taemin song... it's just a masterpiece (and not to mention an absolute bop) FYI Taemin is Catholic so the themes of temptation & sin that you picked up on are prevalent not only in this MV but several others as well as religious imagery. Honestly I just think he is absolutely extraordinary. A true artist and he's mesmerising on camera. I could watch him dance for hours (his dance practice videos are well worth a watch to truly appreciate how skilled he is) and I can't wait for 2023 to give us new Taemin and Shinee music 🙏

[@sofiiivvv9868]

Taemin is simply the king of kpop !!!

[@mochawilliams5996]

Taemtation 👑 Taemin uses the T'pose often in mv's. Can't wait for Taemin to be released from the military!

[@dustysnob6954]

If you became a fan of Taemin, you have to see his performance 'You are my standard'. It is hilarious and gorgeous at the same time.

[@MS9SM-6]

Taemin is the legend of K-pop! He is made for global audiences!!! Taemin’s golden era is just starting!!

[@danimonique8824]

-yay more Taemin. I was hooked the second I heard his voice. He doesn’t even need the visuals he’s very hypnotizing and alluring. I hope you check out his b-sides like “strings” “heaven” and “love” and “rise” I think those songs are really versatile to his vocals

[@shadow_sigyn]

Want is one of my most favourite Taemin songs! I enjoyed your reaction and found your conclusions very interesting! Taemin is catholic, and he likes to put religious references in his songs, this fact made me see Want a certain way. My personal intake on the song and an MV is: Want is filled with very straightforward references to Old Testament and Adam's and Eve's encounter with snake/Lucifer. Taemin is both snake and Lucifer. In the video he is stylised differently in scenes with smoke, in them, he is openly a Lucifer. In the other scenes he looks beautiful in a pure and innocent way, he is a snake (disguised). Many lines in the song are a take on the conversation that Adam and Eve had with a snake. We, as listeners are Adam and Eve, Taemin is trying to make us taste the forbidden fruit. The door at the end is, as you guessed, "The Gates of Hell" by Auguste Rodin. So hell is where we might end up after being successfully temped by Taemin. In conclusion, he pretends to be innocent, in front of unsuspecting listeners, to tempt us into taking a final step on a path that will lead to new pleasures/experiences but will condemn us at the same time.

[@valoriec]

Yes! Lol it was the Gates of Hell. And I agree that he is the devil, lol. They even had Eve there to be tempted, and the red suit (apple) and... just so many religious overtones. This is my favorite Taemin MV for sure. He's incredible.

[@TotaTota-pq7sp]

Thank u 💕 We love taemin🥰

[@shininmoon]

the thing about taemin is i am finding new things to love or to add my interpretation of his work every single time i watch or listen his music. that's why i love him, or any art, when you can keep going back to it and find new things. art that endures

[@JoJo-es7tc]

Love taimen. An artist. He will be home soon.

[@EmmaSol94]

The only thing I'd say for sure is that he represents temptation, inspired by the snake that tempted Adam and Eve. The rest is up to us to have fun with, and I had a lot of fun hearing your thoughts! There's a lot I hadn't thought about and I haven't thought about it in context of some of the later releases like Criminal before, but I think it works! Intentional or not doesn't really matter with art☺

[@martahagyari7174]

Taemin is always a revelation! Loved your reaction.

[@babeh9999]

Incredibly impressive reaction DG! Taemin is my ultimate bias and I fell in love with his style of artistry from watching Advice for the first time too! Taemin as an artist is on a level of his own when it comes to making music. Every Taemin music video lends itself to being broken down to pieces in order to understand it better. But if we all did that we would miss the pure enjoyment of watching an artist at work. Hence, it’s a blessing to have reactors like yourself whom give an insightful view of Taemin’s music. Thanks so much!

[@iishilpisinhaii]

STOP THIS IS MY FAVORITE TAEMIN SONG😭💕 TYSM FOR YOUR REACTION !!

[@ShawolOT5]

I honestly think your Taemin reactions are my favorite, by far. I enjoy watching your mind be blown away by the multi-dimensional meanings and layers Taemin puts into his songs and MVs. He is a true master of his craft.

[@lootee4139]

I hope you do a Taemin solo discography listening. He has a lot of brilliant songs with grand production, especially in his live performances where he shines the brightest. Our guy has pure insane talent.

[@leydarachadey465]

TAEMIN es la maxima expresión de arte en la industria del KPOP .Es diferente único. Su voz hermosa sensual .Su danza perfecta genial .El ACE el Rey del performer. .Lo máximo. . Reacciona a unos de sus conciertos. SEUSUALITY..WESS WHO .Live NIPÓN BUDOKA. . SOlDIER. RISE. SlAVE .Live SURIO . FANTÁSTICO,

[@guilhermenovo8967]

14:21 THEY ARE NOT STATUES !!?!?!?!?!? I watched this mv dozens of times cause Taemin is magnamiously beautiful in it and the music is amazing and I had never figure they were actual people and not statues ! O.O Amazing react as always, DG !

[@angelinagore5067]

Taemin 😍😍😍😍

[@ktsuoki]

THIS MV IS LITERALLY ABSOLUTE CINEMA 🙌

[@eugenarost7]

Taemin and Jackson, these two artists open up a completely different world to us. Taemin has such a sensual world and P'Jack's world is so original and deep p/s for a long time I just couldn't get away from this song of Taemin, I was addicted to how he sings: I wanted more and more and it wasn't enough for me to listen to it even 200 times a day

[@Saddlemomma]

You are definitely on the right track with the meaning, unlike so many who are just stunned by how tempting Taemin can be. However, let me take it even deeper for you in the biblical sense. Although I'm not Catholic like Taemin, I am a fellow Christian (non--denominational). Keep in mind, this is what I got out of it based upon years of exploring Taemin's music, my own biblical study and research (centered in keeping within the ancient cultural and historical context of the Bible), and what Taemin has, himself, revealed through interviews, VLIVES, etc. First, let me say that I very much appreciate Taemin's music for its many layers of deep, philosophical meanings. Especially since those interpretations often reflect his deep Christian faith and the challenges to that faith, especially being in the entertainment business. While not all of his music reflects a Christian message, as a Christian myself, those songs that do bring us a faith-based message are so refreshing after the standard fare of regular Christian music primarily because they are so raw and filled with difficult truths revealing the very real struggle everyday Christians deal with in this secular world. Taemin is using this MV to provide a Bible study on the perilous story of Genesis 3. It's a cautionary tale about delving into selfish desires through twisted truths and embracing sins that draw us away from actual truth. During the introduction phase, we see alluring snippets of Taemin in various poses with snakes and smoke (loved your insight on the "smoke and mirrors") however, you also see what looks like pools/drops of blood (Christ was the ultimate sacrificial lamb whose blood covers the sins of the world). Taemin opens the MV by dancing in slow, hypnotic, snake-like movements. Snakes/Serpents, which represent the idea of the tempter in the Bible, (in the ancient Hebrew - which derives from Akkadian & Ugarit - the word "snake/serpent" ["nchsh"]), used in this particular way grammatically in Gen. 3, is a triple entendre meaning "divine shining being". The snake was ancient iconography denoting spiritual/godly figures. Eve wasn't talking with a snake, but an angel or some other divine shining being. Gardens and mountains were typical metaphors for where gods dwelt because gardens were rare and mountains were mostly inaccessible to ancient peoples of that time period. When trying to interpret the Bible, it's VERY IMPORTANT to leave your 21st Century glasses on the table and look at the wording and imagery from the ancient Israelites' perspective and the language, culture, and history of that time period - from the second millennial BC up through the 1st Century AD. Things don't mean what you think they do now. The glowing, bright white shirt Taemin wears fits in perfectly with the symbolism for "shining" and "the light". The chief adversary of Christ, was Lucifer (MEANING: "Light Bearer", or "The Shining One"). As I explained earlier - divine shining being. Thus I wouldn't be surprised that this part of his wardrobe was very intentional. Taemin is all about the little details. Lucifer was supposedly the most beautiful angel....until he fell. (The word "satan" is a misnomer which actually means "messenger" in the ancient Hebrew/Aramaic, as in the incident with Job. It was actually a job description which became a proper noun later during the intertestamental period and then appeared in the NT.). In addition there are creepy demonic-looking beings around him at certain points when you slow it down. Although he's beautiful, he's hiding his demonic side in order to draw you in....a wolf in sheep's clothing. Just before the bridge, there is a brief shot of a neon red/orange cross behind him, and he mimics the posture of Christ on the cross (which is a signature pose for him as you see in many of his dance postures). In another scene, during the bridge, Taemin is elevated above the snakes and calls them to him because he's their father - the father of lies. The tempter in the garden was a master at twisting the truth, which lured Eve to sin, and she then led Adam to do the same. Behind him is a photo of him with his eyes covered: see no evil here, just as you mentioned. Just gaze at my beauty and listen to what I say. People are blinded by beauty and inconvenient truth. It's more important to satisfy your own desires than to rip the scales from your eyes and act on truth. The eyes are the mirror to the soul. You also get a visual of a solar eclipse. Again a reference to Christ's death on the cross, as there was (according to both the Bible and present day astronomers) a solar eclipse when Christ died on the cross. Even the lyrics reflect this theme: "The minute you take me in you'll be wanting more," in other words an addiction is formed. "....The sweetness of the forbidden apple...," tastes good, but once you get a little taste of sin, that which is forbidden, you'll want more and more because it "...awakens your senses," (in the Bible, when Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, they became aware of the "knowledge of good and evil") and you will continually "...thirst for more." He'll "....wake you up from the silence of your deep sea." In ancient biblical times, the "sea" was a metaphor for chaos, because it couldn't be controlled. People were afraid of it because it was mysterious; you couldn't see beneath the surface; many died in it's chaotic waters. This is why the Bible (in Revelation) says there will be no more seas = no more chaos. Just as in Genesis 1 when God calmed the seas that covered the Earth which means He brought order out of chaos. When Adam and Eve were awakened to knowledge of good and evil, chaos once again ensued upon the Earth. He'll "help you see a new world," but is this really a good new world when innocence is stripped from you? "I'm your toy, I'll make you innocent." Most toys appear innocent and signify the innocence you had as a young child, but the apple (forbidden fruit; actually scholars aren't sure what fruit it was) looked innocent too and "appeared" good to eat. Many poisonous things appear beautiful and delectable but those very qualities lure the unsuspecting victim to their death. Sin numbs you to immorality (truths become lies and vice-versa) and turns it into something "sweet" to the point it's justified and then those who can still see the corruption, try to warn people, or don't themselves partake of that sin, are shunned. It was the serpent who distorted the truth and tempted with the one "forbidden apple" rather than the other acceptable fruit (like the fruit of the Tree of Life which gives immortality rather than death). Look at the state of our current world today, especially the last two years! Sin is running rampant and the world is in utter chaos. Right is wrong and wrong is right. Sin invades so slowly, so subtly and satisfies your cravings to the point that you don't even realize it's happening until you're already addicted to it and scales form over your eyes (which were considered one of the ways to discern knowledge), and you have no clue because you're "...relying on your own self-control...moved by your body's and soul's" dark desires. The tempter says, "Open your eyes (to me rather than God). What do you want? I'LL MAKE YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU NEVER KNEW." Exactly. Adam and Eve never knew sin, until the tempter tricked them and revealed all and after that, humanity has always "wanted" more, driven by their selfish desires. Temptation gives birth to greed, lust, jealousy....all the 7 deadly sins. Before you know it, you have been gently and seductively led right to Rodin's famous "Gates of Hell" sculpture toward the end of the MV. You are left with a choice: 1) Embrace the sin and willingly go through those gates (guaranteeing passage through the gates of what the Bible calls Hell -- an afterlife without the presence of Jesus, which also means utter darkness as Jesus is the light and the truth), or wash yourself clean in pure (holy) water (Christ promised to gift us with living water -- which was himself; his pure sacrificial blood that washes us clean), and there's only one way to do that - by believing in and accepting Christ as our savior -- the one who died for us. I'm sure there's probably much more that I've missed. As you realize by now, Taemin's lyrics can be interpreted simply as they appear, or once you study the meticulous details that he is famous for infusing into his work, one may find a message that's a little uncomfortable for some and more than one bargained for...lol. Other Taemin songs that reveal deeper Christian messages are: "Heaven" (LV) which is a beautiful invitation to salvation; "Famous" (MV) which highlights some of the 7 deadly sins that tempt him as an idol and how they could corrupt him if he doesn't stay true to himself and his faith. Then there's "Holy Water"....enough said. As you referenced when you mentioned "Criminal", even his 2020 album, "Never Gonna Dance Again" Acts 1 & 2 feature Heaven and Hell; light and dark - typical Christian themes - within the concepts of the entire album, and "Advice" reminds him not to listen to the advice of the collective "one" (Lucifer's whisperings, negative fans, sometimes the company, outsiders) but to take his own advice because he wants to remain true to himself, his faith and his own style of music which transcends the word, "Kpop". Thanks for once again reacting to Taemin and analyzing the depths of this masterpiece.

[@Keke88]

Oh yeah, he is the temptation.

[@lori4021]

Thank you so much. You're one of my few favorites. Your MV and lyric analysis are just so interesting to watch. And yes, Taemin is phenomenal!

[@ireneserrano4570]

Great reaction & analysis!!! You missed Leonardo Da Vinci's "Vitruvius Man" in the second 14 of the MV 😬 The symbolisms are everywhere and interpretations are multiple!! I love it!!!

[@Kora27]

I think I say this every time, but we love your Taemin reactions so much! ♥ for me, this is one of the most beautiful videos...I watched it a lot of times and I'm always captivated by the aesthetic that I never even thought of the connection with Criminal 😅😂 but now that you pointed it out it's obvious also, Taemin does have a song called Eclipse released in 2018

[@UmbraLyrel]

The more I watch this clip the more I see and hear. He begins the clip in a red outfit, breathing smoke; another scene with the laser beam effect almost make it look like sharp dragon/gargoyle wings are folding in behind him... One of the devil's symbols is The Dragon, a Red one, specifically. Also the Red cross, and so so many other things. He also draws out one of his lyrics near the beginning to literally sound like a snake's hiss, but it's so smooth and natural if you don't listen for it you wouldn't notice. Mastery. There are so many layers to this man holy hell!! (literaly)

[@Reny2408]

Taemin is really something else. You should react to his live performances. On the stage Taemin becomes a beast.

[@meemzzz]

I enjoyed your reaction! I have such an appreciation for Taemin for what and how he delivers his music. I feel like when everyone goes 'right', he's going 'left' yet balances it perfectly in the middle. I do believe it when people say he's in a league of his own just by listening to all of his music in the last 8 years.

[@lealee5113]

Thank you for all of your reactions! ♥ I wish you mentioned the gloves only on one hand, which represents the duality in Taemin. All of his life he has been told, that he looks like a girl, especially when he was younger and wore longer hair, and it was very uncomfortable for him. But with the "Move", this MV and others, he embraces it, he is no longer than little boy, that was shy or annoyed. He embodies masculine and feminine sides and being proud about it (sorry for my English)

[@ctasiavoshi8686]

Taemin’s songs are really amazing

[@ArianaSB1797]

The gates that are behind Taemin is a piece of art that is actually called Gates of Hell from the sculptor Auguste Rodine , so yeah he was really saying that the new place he is goings to take you is hell

[@familyblosser9698]

Thanks for such an insightful review! Taemin’s entire body of work is amazing!

[@talebhanan3028]

My favorit Song ever i love Taemin So much he's such Amazing and best dancer in K-pop 🖤✨🖤

[@NoName-gm9oe]

He is one of my favorites too.

[@monique2939]

This is masterpieceeeee

[@tuyenhoang3810]

Thank you for your reactions to TAEMIN

[@puripuriin]

I beg you to react to Taemin - Move #1 it leaves you speechless and the song and rhythm screams SEXY

[@is_shanghua]

your reviews are just so beautiful and insightful and i just love the way you feel the music - with your analysis of the lyrics and imagery - so genuine and perceptive!! thank you and keep it up! ♥♥♥

[@MyAmru]

One of the most sensual mv ever... not only just in kpop...the music is so good,the symbolisms and the temptation of all... Taemin.... That gate is like the Dante's inferno.. Gates of hell..or levels of hell...

[@Resonance1919]

Don't know if anyone has mentioned this yet, but the girl in this video is Karina! She did some live stages with him as well before anyone knew who she was.

[@hypeQueen444]

I have to say that Taemin is one of the sexiest artists out there. Soul sexy! I laughed at Lucifer Morningstar because he is definitely giving that vibe in this video. Holy shitballs is right! This artist is legendary and as always it is so fun to watch your interpretations of his artistry xoxo

[@monicajuanah.a156]

He is the devil, yes he is!! 👍

[@whereisja]

I've watched that MV idk how many times and never noticed until your reaction that the last shot in the magnifying glass is his image but upside down unlike the previous close ups.

[@xoaaliyah]

YES!! this song and criminal are my absolute favorites. the lyrics, the character he embodies, every single thing is incredibly enticing. i loved your reaction and your perception of the song all in all. i'll never forget when i first watched this mv.

[@dearumambis6161]

I hope you continuing react to Taemin because he is so amazing

[@marinal.]

Hi, i am back. Good reaction, ty. Love hearing ur thoughts about this. The mask is important because he always has one in his music. He wears a mask for a reason. The interesting thing to me is that the mask is very feminine. Also, Taemin wears gloves. One glove in particular in some parts. A fan pointed this out to me a few months ago. I had never noticed before. Again acknowledging the feminine. His dancing clothes have interesting cut outs showing skin. Very enticing. 0.o I love his voice. It's amazing. Jimin is pals with Taemin. They have a lot in common i hear. So i slowly started to listen to his songs. I love Sayonara Hitori /Goodbye by him. It's beautiful. It's a Japanese track. Hope u check it out. =0] Want was nice. His visuals were great. Liked his vocals too. I saw a lot of inspo Jimin got from him. But I also see how Jimin is different and his own artist. It was cool to see that. He is smooth with it. I see why Jimin is a fan. I like that he uses girl backup dancers with the guys. Don't see that too often. He is cute and dances well. Lots of MJ vibes. New Taemin bias here. He is art in motion for sure. Liked his fit. Did not know he had a thing for gloves. Pls also check out Move, Famous, and Sayonara Hitori/Goodbye (Japanese). I like ur humor in this reaction, lol. So glad u liked this song. Many connect it to Move. Hope u check that out soon. (inserts puppy dog eyes) Laters. -NY USA 2019 Army💟 Bastet said on 1/30/20 "want" is about Temptation. Taemin represents the snake and the forbidden fruit at garden of eden & the door that appeared behind him at the end of the mv is an art piece called "The Gates of Hell" It is a monumental sculptural group work by French artist Auguste Rodin Kaya said on 3/10/23 Fun fact: Taemin himself said he hated "Want Taemin" and that the persona for the concept was 100% Key's personality rather than his (which is why he playfully said he hated it) BUT he also said that he would've had the best chemistry with "Want Taemin" aka Key 🤭 Just to clarify he said that in his V Live today and he was talking about the personality of his persona during Want era, not the concept, choreography or anything like that. Saddlemomma 3/10/22 I think to truly understand Taemin and his thought process for everything he's done, you first need to watch the mini-doc, "The Artist: Taemin" by Walawala; Second, the interview he did for "The Stage"; Third, the interview he did for "Ravi Close Up - Taemin, Pts. 1&2". These, collectively, really get to the heart of Taemin and his feelings about his identity and his albums. "Want" is a VERY revealing song. For some it's just a song about how tempting Taemin really is, as he embodies every definition of temptation, but actually, this is the point where Taemin is boldly expressing his worldview through his music. Other than "Holy Water" which is a prayer, "Want" is a very revealing look into Taemin's worldview through the retelling of the story of Genesis 3 of the Bible with a little sprinkling of the salvation message at the end. I have a detailed analysis and explanation of the entire MV which I shared on KoKopop's reaction to "Want" which you can read here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pnnRlHuMhs6GhpY (This would be way too long to include here.) Up until NGDA, Taemin struggled with his own identity. We can see the beginning of this struggle through his song "Famous" also released in 2019 (which was appropriately included in NGDA.) Through the lyrics and MV you can see his struggle with which identity is the real Taemin while also conveying the message that being famous may be fabulous, but it's also dangerous. You can, again, see the biblical motif of the forbidden apple in the video which speaks to the constant temptation to loose himself to the sin of pride, arrogance, and overindulgence often associated with celebrity status. For NGDA (an album Taemin has had the most influence over and participation with by co-producing and co-directing), Taemin specifically chose the concepts of Stockholm syndrome and Plato's Theory of Forms for a reason. He stated that he was in kind of an identity crisis (battle, if you will) between the real, everyday Taemin, the performer TAEMIN, and his IDEA of the perfect Taemin he wants to be - which encompasses both the real and the celebrity. From 2Kids to IDEA we see the progression of the real Taemin breaking through the perceptions of who he appears to be and the merging of all three to bring about that perfect IDEA of Taemin. However, as per Plato, he comes to the realization that he can never really attain perfection on his own because only a powerful outside force can actually be and/or create perfection. Therefore, his IDEA of perfection can only be attained outside himself and through his Messiah - an outside higher power. In "IDEA", Taemin bluntly displays his devout faith as a Christian. His worldview is extremely important to him and is a huge part of who he is. If you watch any live performance, you can often catch a glimpse of him making the sign of the cross during parts of his choreo (he is a devout Catholic). For example, in his performance of "Heaven", you can see him cross himself three times. In addition, Taemin's classic "T-pose" is the position of Christ on the cross - not a reference to 3rd position for a dancer. I think rather than which era portrays the real Taemin, it's more of a continuing journey of Taemin struggling to find out who he really is as a whole person, who he wants to be, and how he wants to be viewed as that whole person rather than just as a celebrity. He has stated he wants to show the real, complete Taemin to his fans and get closer to them in a more intimate way rather than just the façade of the performer. The real Taemin is a man of deep faith who loves others and wants to share that love and be loved in return. His music is an extension of all of those facets of TAEMIN and reveals the heart of the man.

[@dantexpiers9662]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

[@BlueNightShineeWorld25508]

Fun fact... This was the follow up to his song and if for move. Taemin returns from the military the start of March a month before their 15th debut anniversary. Plus there will be a Shinee comeback. And lots to look forward to from them in the new year

[@raven_iv]

Oh my god, I'm I dreaming? Finally????

[@babywol_3782]

T - pop💎💎💎💎💎

[@gabriellahuszti7746]

Taemin💯💯

[@devakibhagwat6146]

some of my other favourits by Taemin MVs that you have yet to check out: Press Your Number Flame of Love Ace (doesn't have an MV but there's a concept video that's basically a performance video) Danger Thirsty

[@milindawilson9175]

Fun fact: That's not just any female dancer in Taemin's "Want" MV. The female dancer that you see highlighted in the MV is Yoo JiMin (Karina) who is the leader and main dancer of aespa. She participated in this song as a rookie trainee even before aespa's debut. ("Want" was released in February 2019 and aespa didn't debut until November 2020.) She also participated in some live performances of "Want" and you can see her in Taemin's dance practice video. Taemin's "Want" is one of those songs that the lyrics take the song and performance up to the next level. :D The lyrics give the song and performance a whole other feel and it helps to explain the images and story you see being told in the MV. Many people think that "Want" has a vampire vibe, and I can see where some might get the vampire feel from this MV. After all, one of Taemin's nicknames is SHINee's eternal vampire because in some performances and MVs, the way he looks and the aesthetic of the performance gives him a vampire image. However, you're right, in "Want" Taemin is supposed to be portraying Lucifer. That's why he seems to have a love affair with those snakes. (The ones he is holding are real snakes.) And, like Lucifer, he is supposed to be seducing the audience and the girl using his devilish powers, which is why the choreography looks like he is slithering like a snake. Taemin is Catholic, and most of his MVs showcase his faith as it tells the story using numerous Biblical references. The style and aesthetic in "Want" is just the kind of vibe we have all come to expect from Taemin. He has a very sensual/sexy way of moving and, as a soloist, it's kind of his signature thing.That is why all his songs are titles such as "Danger," "Soldier" "Sexuality," "Tiger," "Press Your Number," "Guess Who," "Mystery Lover," "Hypnosis," "Crazy 4 U," "Flame of Love," " Under My Skin," "Thirsty," "Want," "Criminal," etc. or "Ace," "Already", "Door, "Pretty Boy," "Move" "Artistic Groove," "Famous," "Idea," etc. Each song is meant to show you exactly why he is one of the best in the industry even just by their titles. I find it interesting that all of his songs, with the titles alone, tell you exactly what Taemin is all about. If you look at all the titles of his songs, you will see that the titles convey one of two things about him, either painting a picture of his sexy and sensual onstage personality, or they explain his dedication and passion as an artist. The way Taemin dances is just the way he moves. His movements are effortless. However, you will see that it will always be very Taemin-like. Many choreographers who have worked with him over the years have said that, with Taemin you can't help but allow him to move in whatever way his body takes him. Taemin is art in every sense of the word. :D Taemin's style of dance can't be defined. As he has said, he has worked his entire career to create a style of dance that is unlike anything in the Kpop industry. And I would argue that that now extends to the entire industry of dance. Taemin started out as a self-taught popper and locker without any dance training, and, even then, as a trainee it was clear his skills as a dancer went far beyond the average dancer. (He started out by copying dancers that he saw on TV such as Michael Jackson and Kpop star Bi Rain. And he didn't have any formal training until he joined SM. As trainees, SM originally planned to make SHINee a hip-hop group, so Taemin's dance training started out focusing on hip-hop dance styles like popping and locking.) However, over the years, as you see with "Want," he has infused those popping and locking skills into his now more contemporary style of dance. But, when it comes to dancing, he can do it all and there is no one better at it than him. If you like his dancing in the MV, you have to see his "Want" dance practice video to really understand how intricate and breathtaking Taemin is with this choreography. No one moves the way Taemin does.

[@raven_iv]

And that's why you should react to him more! 🔥❤️

[@yunqb1519]

I love that you actually dive deeper into the MVs and try to catch all the symbolism and intentions! I wish more reactioners would pay that much attention

[@greywhale]

YES THOSE ARE INFACT THE GATES TO HELL! Not many reactors make that connection!

[@ethelralte1024]

Thank you, I love Taemin so much he is the best👍💯.

[@rupsadebnath7126]

I think this is the ''Criminal'' taemin was describing in his CRIMINAL MV..

[@oleksandrabalykina1574]

Well, that was actually Gates of Hell, the sculpture by August Rodin

[@aviewer9516]

Thanks for reacting to 'Want'. Definitely one of my favorites from him. 'Move' and 'Danger' are great, as well as 'Under My Skin' sung in Japanese. Beautiful song - also one of my faves from Taemin

[@babywol_3782]

Fun fact: the girl in the mv is aespa's karina

[@DGReacts]

Oh that's so cool!

[@julian_333]

Please more Taemin

[@wantanamay]

Thank you for reacting to Taemin! You have some of the BEST insights and deep analysis of the meaning behind his song lyrics and music videos. I love hearing your opinion and you actually point out to certain things that I didn't notice...especially the storylines that are connected between "want" and "criminal". You have a discerning eye. I hope you get to see more of Taemin's work

[@Ca-yr2rz]

I loooved this reaction, I was actually listening Want this morning! You know sm has a narrative universe, right? There's not a lot info about it cause it's very new and ig they're trying to tie all the groups together 🙃 but we think (I've seen it a lot) Taemin is the main villain of the sm universe! It suits him so well~ also for all the symbols in his mvs and lyrics, they can be linked very easily to the things we know about the story. Again, most probably this wasn't very planned, like this mvs weren't filmed with that in mind, but they make a lot of sense for the narrative!

[@booaugust]

you were pretty spot on with the gates of hell thing haha . i recognized it immediately because i saw that artwork at stanford university when i visited ,,

[@LeninaHastley]

I love my favorite Taemin,i love Jackson Wang

[@shininmoon]

thank you so much for reacting to want (i knew you'd like and i recommended it too on a prev reaction haha) i really appreciate how you try to dig into every little detail, aspect and analyse it all so thoroughly even tho it's so hard on first listen/view. this video did great!!

[@santialpino9656]

Taemin black rose its cool😊

[@santialpino9656]

Kroatia win😅😅

[@elischelli5340]

Hi, the gates is the La Porte de l'Enfer of Auguste Rodin.

[@R10084]

I hope You can react to famous and eclipse by taemin

[@marianasaraiva468]

fun fact the girl that appears towards the end of the mv is actually karina from aespa

[@maryqueenmaryqueen2523]

As usual love your insights ❤ for me Want MV stands on its own and can be interpreted as an artistic visual of Lucifer's seduction of Adam and Eve described in the bible. Taemin indeed looks majestic and innocent in white glowing shirt showing time Lucifer was an angel, his wings were so bright that lighted up whole paradise. In bible Lucifer was described as the most beautiful angel with blue eyes and blonde hair showed in Taemin's blue shirt outfit, plus blue is widely used in iconography as symbol of holiness and relation to paradise devil once was part of. Behind this angelic face though (smoke and mirrors) you can see his true nature, tempting Devil, it's reflected in his red outfit, his snakelike choreo in beginning of the video, but also in snakes he summons towards the end of MV (9 snakes may represent deadly sins or 9 rounds of hell described by Dante). Also I liked the black and white shots of the web he dances within, representing us basically falling in the web of temptation devil Taemin created. Solar eclipse imho can also represent the darkness (pride and hate towards God) that swallowed Lucifer and led to his fall but also might symbolize that very time when we fall into the sin and darkness overshadowed the light withing us. Last but not least I got intrigued by water scene in the end right after the Roden gates of hell, I interpreted it as a warning to us sinners: ones who will not accept God through holy water will be weak towards devil's charm and end up in hell. I'm not particularly religious person, so all these inrepretations are rather based on general knowledge of chistian concepts 😊

[@dimishawol]

I think my comment was deleted 🥲 Anyway in case it really was I'm rewriting this Thank you soooooo so much for coming back to Taemin! This is definitely one of his best music videos!! There are countless symbolisms Taemin has always played with the "Fallen Angel theme" and here he's literally presenting himself as the devil, the temptation and I love how he's adopted this delicate innocent look misleading you I found this article on the internet called "Taemin's use of religious imagery: expressing duality through the eyes of a fallen angel" and it analyses taemin's concepts perfectly in case you're interested Also because you asked, in the end of the MV they're dancing in front of Rodin's Gates of Hell And the eclipse could also be a reference to one of his previous songs called Eclipse Anyway I'm done with my ranting 😂 I'm really thankful to you for this reaction and I'm truly glad you appreciate Taemin like that Thank you 💙

[@aracelli321]

No sé cuántas veces he visto este video...

[@SOO-f5j]

태민이보면 지민이생각나고 지민이보면 태민이생각나... 신기방기..

[@jumitsu]

I'm really happy to see your reaction to Taemin after a while!! 😁 If I may add one or two more pieces to your puzzle: before Want, Taemin released a Japanese song called Under my Skin and between Want and Criminal, he released another Japanese song called Famous. In my opinion, the “storyline” that Taemin is showing us now started with Under my Skin (which was his only solo release after Jonghyun's death), goes through Want, through Famous to Criminal and so on until IDEA and Advice. Unfortunately these Japanese MVs are often blocked in reactions on KZbin and don't have subtitles, so you might need to check them out on your Patreon and read the lyrics separately (if you want to check them out). I'll leave the links below: Under My Skin MV: kzbin.info/www/bejne/emGyhaltj7qfm5Y Famous MV: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGSVmZuFqK9kas0 Just to finish my comments, Taemin often talks about his internal struggle between “good and evil”, between idol and person, so the duality is ALWAYS present in some form in the MVs. Taemin is Catholic and tends to address biblical issues in his music, as well as talking about faith and penance. When those two subjects aren't the main ones, he basically deals with romantic/sexual themes lol An example where he mixes relationship issues with duality and his inner demons is in the special video for the song Just me and You: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJiukp6vnZuhkKM (Another song that unfortunately can't be reacted on yt and doesn't have official subtitles 😣) Congratulations on the analysis and thank you for the reaction!

[@umarekomal3389]

Next you can check out his Japanese mvs...these mvs also has symbolism...I'll suggest SAYONARA HITORI (goodbye alone english translation of title) FLAME OF LOVE, FAMOUS

[@rx.na_]

I love this reaction! thanks for this

[@yaneirigarcia9107]

Please react to taemin hit the stage goodbye! Ur gonna love it

[@moelin12]

Even though he is very devoted to Catholicism, I believe that he is a fallen angel like Lucifer was. In the bible they talk a lot about his beauty, Taemin is one of the idols and the most beautiful man to walk this earth, even what makes him more fascinating is his androgynous appearance and makes you love him even when you are a man. He makes you want to sin.

[@shininmoon]

i personally don't think this is conencted to smcu at all which started later and his ideas for want were percolating from late 2018. he and shinee have so said so far they have nothing to do with kwangya lore. moreover this is him expressing his personal stories and feeling about himself, his career etc. it's very deeply personal and i don't think part of any company lore or universe.

[@Auntie67]

My thoughts exactly.

[@TheSaDeMa]

It is not pronounced teimin, it is pronounced tEmin

[@SetoVamps]

[@afjada5062]

There karina in the bridge

[@ireneserrano4570]

They use spits (blooded) in a few transitions. Spits also has symbolism, they can relate to Healing rituals or to Sorc€ry and w!tchcraft in the ancient times. I recommend you read: HOLY SPIT AND MAGIC SPELLS: RELIGION, MAGIC AND THE BODY IN LATE ANCIENT JUDAISM, CHRISTIANITY, AND ISLAM. By Adam Colins Bursi, 2015, Cornell Univ. You'll find the essay in internet, free access 👌☺️

[@BlueNightShineeWorld25508]

Taemin includes a lot of religious aspects to some of his work as he is Catholic. ( baptismal name is Francesco). He does indeed change his eye color with lenses to suit the concept of his music and their mvs the female you see in the mv when he says I'm your toy is katrina. Can't remember the female group she debuted with but this was before her debut.

[@mochawilliams5996]

Aespa

[@mumuki777]

The MV director is a genius with lighting/editing. From the perspective of mv production, this is the best one. Althought one of my favorite song is "advice", I wish the MV can be better.