Run The Jewels, the duo of Killer Mike and El-P, released a video for “walking in the snow” from their milestone 2020 album RTJ4. Directed by Chris Hopewell, the stop-motion visual stars action figure versions of Mike and El, who have been thrust into a toy-populated bedroom city where authoritarian forces have seized power and routinely use violence to quell revolt. But it doesn’t take long for our heroes to discover and link up with a secret rebel force intent on overthrowing their frosty overlords.
The video is a perfect thematic fit for the lyrically prescient and relevant song, and its tightrope walk between scathing political commentary and good-humored fun is a perfect reflection of the band itself.
“It was great to work with the RTJ guys again,” said Hopewell, who earlier helmed RTJ’s “Don’t Get Captured” music video.“Everyone was very aware of the gravity of the subject matter and RTJ didn’t want to be too obvious or on the nail with the visuals, so we went with an ‘80s style fantasy look with evil snow warriors and their icy king oppressing the bedroom toys. It was great to be involved with a project with a positive vibe to end a pretty fucked up year. Big thanks to the RTJ crew for their truth and for letting us work with their amazing music once again.”
The video was produced by YouTube Music, Unreasonable Studios, Jacknife Films and Black Dog Films, with creative by Anomaly.
Rosie Brind, Hopewell’s long-time producer, produced for Jacknife.
