Compton icon Kendrick Lamar has released a visual for his standout, psychologically intense track We Cry Together, from his recent critically acclaimed Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. 

The short film sees the narrative of the song playout just as many imagined it, emphasizing a toxic, abusive relationship, seemingly taking inspiration from Eminem’s similarly stressful ‘Kim’. 

The video and song itself stars ‘Zola’ actress Taylour Paige, who takes opposing sides to Kendrick in this graphic dispute, as they scream at each other for the duration of the film. 

This version of the song is slightly different, as it’s remarkably done with no lip-syncing, live in a single take, followed through the camera. It’s visually very impressive with its one-shot style, and use of browns and oranges in the mise-en-scene, to create a convincing ambience.

The Alchemist instrumental remains unchanged, almost acting as a score for the dreadful exchange we’re witnessing. The menacing, almost Dr. Dre-esque piano keys, and boom bap drums provide a somewhat disturbing backdrop to the confrontation. 

The song was already very theatrical in its own right, and one of the most emotionally powerful listens on the record, so the accompanying short film makes a lot of sense. It’s a brutally realistic depiction of an abusive relationship, with Taylour Paige’s raspy screams making for an incredibly impactful performance. As the camera pulls away, it reveals a film set, once again highlighting the theatricality of the song, and the album too. 

It's Kendrick Lamar’s second video from this LP, following N95. Directed by Lamar, alongside Jake Schreier, and Dave Free, and produced by Lamar’s creative collective pgLang, the film was recorded on March 15th, 2020, four days before state-wide lockdown, and over two years till the release of Mr Morale & The Big Steppers. The short-film is eligible for a 2023 Oscar nomination, after its theatre debut in June. 

Kendrick Lamar makes his return to the UK this November, for 9 shows. 

Watch the video here.