From Calgary Roots to Coldplay's Desert Dream: Emily Hastings Directs a Visual Spectacle

It’s always fascinating to hear about local talent making waves on the global stage, isn't it? And when that talent is a JUNO-winning creative producer and director working with a band like Coldplay, well, you know it’s going to be a story worth telling. That's precisely the case for Emily Hastings, a former Calgarian now based in the vibrant creative hub of Los Angeles, who recently found herself orchestrating a truly monumental music video shoot for Coldplay's upcoming album, 'Moon Music'.

This wasn't just any video; Hastings describes it as an experience that was, quite frankly, 'once-in-a-lifetime.' Imagine, if you will, the vast, shimmering desert near Palm Springs, California. Now, picture a colossal LED screen – absolutely massive – brought in for the occasion, surrounded by a troupe of dancers and a whole crew of dedicated artists and technicians. This was the backdrop for the new video accompanying Coldplay's track, 'Biutyful,' a visual feast that Emily had the incredible opportunity to bring to life.

Bringing such an ambitious vision to fruition in a desert environment comes with its own unique set of challenges. We're talking about extreme heat, for one, the kind that makes you truly appreciate a cool breeze, and then, of course, the ever-present desert winds that can whip up sandstorms at a moment's notice. But these weren't insurmountable obstacles for Hastings and her team. They navigated the logistical complexities, the technical demands of that enormous LED screen, and the unpredictable whims of nature with a resilience that speaks volumes about their dedication.

Emily, who has steadily built a reputation for her innovative approach and keen eye, was right there in the thick of it, ensuring every detail aligned with the band's artistic vision. Her role as a creative producer and director meant overseeing everything from the grand concepts to the nitty-gritty of execution. It’s a huge responsibility, yes, but also an incredibly rewarding one, especially when you’re creating something that feels genuinely epic in scale and scope.

The entire production, from what she’s shared, sounds like a true marvel of modern filmmaking, blending artistic expression with cutting-edge technology against a breathtaking natural canvas. For anyone in the industry, or even just a casual observer, the sheer effort and artistry involved in such a project are truly inspiring. It's a testament to Emily's talent and perseverance, tracing her journey from her early days in Calgary to commanding such a significant project for one of the world's biggest bands. We can hardly wait to see the final 'Biutyful' video and witness the magic she helped create firsthand!