Phil Collins: The Short Films

(NJR/1985) Sussudio

So the idea for this music video oneshot came at an odd time, because it arrived along with the storylines that I always couldn't figure out to Realize and Love In Darkness.

Apparently all I needed was a visualisation of the music video's context and just a little thinking "out-of-the-box", revising the context for the song in the first place and what the song means. This oneshot will follow most of the music video, but with some edits to not bore you out with lyrics. Also, this might be the first oneshot where I add in GIFs. Oh boy.

Perspective: Phil Collins
1985 | A Club In London.

The usual buzz of chatter behind me is never-ending, although no music entertains the crowd in this humble club establishment. I'm set to be performing tonight, and so the set is ready for my little performance later. I'm proud to be where I am right now though, I get good money for my gigs and at least I live out my dream of performing.

I'm at the bar counter just mulling over my performance before I start. It's still quite a long way to go, so I think of getting a drink.

"Hey Phil, so what do you wanna have tonight before your usual gig?" Leonard asks me, cleaning wine glasses and other items behind the bar counter.

Crossing my legs while resting them on the footrest of the high chair, I glance over at the various beers and wine bottles and just settle on whiskey.

"One shot of whiskey."

Leonard swiftly pours a shot of whiskey and slides it to me. I take hold of the small glass and start to slowly take it in, appreciate the taste. I put the glass back down, half empty.

I go deep in thought again, thinking about last night. The excitement of it, yet the excitement dulls as the thought of me ever getting a girl soon feels so distant, impossible. Why? I made a song for my future girlfriend. For the one that will come by in my life and that I would give my all for her. It's one piece of art I'll keep...

But time to perform. Before I move to the set, I take a glance at a girl I've never seen around the club. She looks really new to this place.

"Need help with something?" I casually ask, seeing her flustered look. Through the chaos of it all though, I see a pretty face.

"I... I uh, it's my first time in a club..." First time? She looks way past the legal age, she should be in this kind of places before. Either way, I can't deny her some help.

"Want a drink?" I ask her, gesturing to the bar counter.

"No, perhaps maybe... who's performing tonight?" She points at the empty stage set, and I let out a short laugh.

"What?" My reaction baffled her. It's written all over her face.

"I'm performing tonight. Name's Phil. Phil Collins." My hand was outstretched, ready to shake hers.

"Lisa. Lisa Dean." She returns the handshake, and I give her a wink.

"You know, I've been waiting for a long time to perform a song, and I guess this is the time." The band was playing instrumental tunes, and the atmosphere felt odd. Guess I'll spice it up after I get to know her.

I sit with Lisa at the bar counter and talk to her over a drink. She orders a glass of water. Plain, but simple. We gave proper introductions about ourselves, a little small talk and getting to know each other as I give her a little guide around the club and the norms of being here.

However, the club's stage called to me. I had to perform that song for her. It's early, but I know this lady won't stay up late to hear a song. A first-timer at a club will never stay that long.