Meaning of Girls On Film (live) [top Of The Pops - 1981/07/30] by Duran Duran

The Duran Duran song 'Girls On Film (live) [Top Of The Pops - 1981/07/30]' is a classic anthem from the 80s that explores various themes through its vivid and provocative lyrics. The overall theme of the song revolves around the concept of fame, beauty, and the allure of the media. It delves into the idea of how society often objectifies women and their bodies for entertainment purposes, while also highlighting the power dynamics and the inner turmoil that can come with being in the spotlight. Now, let's take a closer look at some standout lyrics and the imaginative themes they help develop.One of the intriguing and evocative lines in the song is "See them walking hand in hand across the bridge at midnight." While it may seem like a simple description of a scene, this particular line can be interpreted as a symbol of breaking boundaries and venturing into the unknown. It suggests that the girls in the song are not afraid to defy societal norms and venture into unexplored territories, serving as a metaphor for embracing one's individuality and not conforming to expectations.Another noteworthy lyric is "Lipstick cherry all over the lens as she's falling." This line conveys an image of a woman experiencing a moment of vulnerability while being captured on camera. The smearing of lipstick on the lens could represent the blurring of boundaries between reality and the fantasy world created by the media. It touches upon the theme of identity and how it can be altered and manipulated by the lens through which others perceive us.The line "Wider baby smiling you just made a million" brings forth the complex theme of commodification and the notion of selling oneself for success. It reveals the pressure put on individuals, especially women, to conform to societal standards of beauty in order to achieve fame and fortune. The mention of a smile implies the facade that is often expected of these individuals, forcing them to present a happy and marketable version of themselves, even if it's not authentic.Furthermore, the lyric "Give me shudders in a whisper, take me up till I'm shooting a star" delves into the idea of pleasure and desire associated with being in the spotlight. It signifies the intoxication and adrenaline rush of being the center of attention, but also alludes to the sacrifices and compromises one has to make to maintain that stardom. It points to the internal conflict and the cost of living in a fame-driven culture, where personal boundaries are constantly crossed.In conclusion, 'Girls On Film' by Duran Duran encapsulates a multilayered exploration of themes such as fame, beauty, objectification, and the cost of living in the media spotlight. Each standout lyric contributes to the overarching theme by shedding light on different aspects of these themes, ranging from breaking boundaries and embracing individuality to the manipulation of identity and the pursuit of success. This song serves as a thought-provoking critique of the entertainment industry while also showcasing the complexities and contradictions inherent in the pursuit of fame and popularity.