DOLLS are not a new trope in kpop, ranging back to the Song that is constantly cited as starting it all, GEE. despite the disturbing implications of the metaphor (look but dont touch, admire their bodies but dont let them speak) dolls have persevered, constantly reappearing in new, but just as objectifying, forms. for the nu wave “sexy concepts” of 2013-14, dolls, mannequins and performers are a perfect way to discreetly place women in a position where their bodies are under fire. however, while their images are controversial, something always seems to be forgotten: their meanings. although it is easy to discount the words of a seeming lifeless object, fruitful discourse can be found when one actually listens to what these girl groups imply about their position on a larger scale
rainbow blaxx
the cha cha music video screams “ SIN ”; it’s filled to the brim with excess, gluttony, greed, lust: it immediately gives images of bright colors, delicious looking treats lounging every available surface, elaborate vintage furniture, jewels so abundant they’re being used as ice cubes and even the pretty maids, who are all made-up. but the suggestion here is that perhaps the most valuable asset in the room, however, is women’s bodies
the setting of the video is very fitting for an idol group; something akin to a burlesque club, where the girls of blaxx can be assumed to perform in order to earn all their aforementioned riches. i must “assume” because besides a few dance cuts, there actually is no performance in the club. the vast majority of the video takes place backstage. this video is meant to be a depiction of the secret, behind-the-scene action that fans always crave a glimpse of. but the purpose of the heavily stylized imagery cannot be ignored; there is still a show going on of course - for us, the fans, and for these fascinated characters who are always gazing at the members of blaxx, on and off stage:
there are multiple layers of performance in cha cha. (in the live performances, the girls even bring in another stage as a prop - a small black bloxx - because one isn’t enough) and as with almost any modern mainstream depiction of sex, the message is confusing and contradictory. the girls constantly cite a feeling, but are frustrated with the lack of talk: “I won’t miss the quiver hidden behind the calm voice / I can’t take you acting like a baby forever.” despite this, they are definitely enjoying keeping the audience on a thread: “You want to stare at me longer / […] I understand.” it seems this state of uncomfort is their goal. the song opens and closes with questions for the audience, but no answers: “You like it? You hate it? Please tell me. / […] Are you sure you won’t regret it?”
after the set up of any capitalistic venture, there is always one important question to be asked: as marx would say, who benefits? blaxx answers this blatantly - not them. the matriarch who owns the place is no feminist; blaxx cringes whenever she appears or touches them. she measures blaxx’s bodies as if they are just more jewels in her collection that need to be polished. there is unmistakable sadness and hatred in hyunyoung’s face as the lady measures her body. these moments are definitely disturbing, but they are also quickly brushed aside. the girls should be happy, living a perfect and grandiose life, right? but as blaxx has already brought up earlier, there is no answer to this question that will be satisfying for both parties. :(
STAY TUNED for analysis of more doll concepts!
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