Sidewalk – AŸA

Sidewalk by AŸA

Sidewalk is a captivating music video by Berlin-based singer AŸA, brought to life through the visionary direction and movement expertise of Marie Zechiel. This project showcases Maries multifaceted role, as she not only handled the Movement Direction but also directed the entire film, making it a deeply personal and creative collaboration with the artist. Marie Zechiel worked closely with AŸA from the outset, shaping the concept and visual storytelling of the music video. Her involvement went beyond the typical scope of movement direction, as she was instrumental in developing the narrative and aesthetic of the film. Marie and AŸA collaborated to ensure that the visual elements aligned perfectly with the song’s themes, creating a cohesive and engaging story. Communication was key to the success of Sidewalk and Marie maintained a close dialogue with Director of Photography Maxim Westermann. Her ability to convey the vision of the project ensured that every shot captured the intended emotion and movement. This collaboration between Marie and Maxim Westermann was crucial in achieving the video’s striking visual style. Maries role extended to working with the cast, guiding them through their performances to ensure that their movements were authentic and expressive. Her direction helped the cast deliver powerful performances that resonated with the song’s emotional depth. In addition to her roles as director and movement director, Marie Zechiel also served as the intimacy director for the project. This responsibility involved creating a safe and comfortable environment for the cast, particularly during more sensitive scenes. Her expertise in this area ensured that the performances were both respectful and impactful, adding an additional layer of authenticity to the film. Sidewalk stands as a testament to Marie Zechiels versatility and skill as a director and movement director. Her ability to blend movement, visual storytelling, and emotional nuance has created a music video that is both visually stunning and deeply moving.

As a movement director Marie Zechiel researches, develops and instructs sophisticated movement and body languages for a project aiming to create a suitable and unique physical narrative that raises production quality and authenticity.
In exchange with the director and team she proposes a motion vocabulary and choreography which fits best to the project’s vision, before she develops specific training methods and teaches all necessary skills to the performers (e.g. actors, singers, dancers, models, extras).
Especially on set with the production Marie Zechiel is a valuable motion supervisor to translate last-minute improvements as a movement director. Her skill-set includes underwater movement, cross-gendered movements and chorus work as well as doing choreographies in different dance styles.
Her field of work is specialised in camera productions such as commercials, music videos, photo shootings but also fashion shows and gallery spaces and the movement mentoring for artists. As a Choreographer and Movement Director Marie Zechiel has been involved in many music videos, commercial shoots and fashion shows. Clients include: VOGUECalvin Klein, Longines, Heidi Klum, Rammstein, Herbert Grönemeyer, Mercedes Benz.

Read more about Marie Zechiel´s Movement Director work HERE.