“So Strange” by Superhumanoids (one of our favorite videos of 2013) is a beautiful, poignant, and unexpected video directed by Taylor Cohen and David Altobelli. Written over a night of beers in Silverlake, “So Strange” manages to introduce characters and a situation, and allows both to grow into places that are really moving and surprising - all in the span of four minutes. Despite dealing with scenarios that most people don’t find themselves in, the outstanding performances by the actors help keep the video grounded, allowing the viewer to relate to the characters as they navigate these unfamiliar situations. We talked to Taylor about directing "So Strange" with David, his friendship with Superhumanoids, and finding the right cast and crew for this video.

Doug: You and David are listed as co-directors, did you guys also write the video together?

Taylor: Yes. We got into David's car and swore we wouldn't stop driving until we cracked the story. 20 minutes later we were drinking beers at a bar in Silverlake. The story was solidified after the third Hefeweizen.

Doug: You have the characters sing the lyrics of the song at a few very impactful moments in the video. Was the song a major influence on the narrative?

Taylor: The song definitely played into the tone and arc of the narrative. David pitched the idea of the man singing the lyrics at the climax of the video. I was immediately sold.

Doug: I know you've worked with Superhumanoids in the past, what role do they play in the music video process?

Taylor: I'm good friends with the band and love their music. I'd do anything to help them make great content whether that be directing a video or suggesting another director. I think we share a common sensibility and when we talk about videos it always comes from a place of deep understanding of the band as people, not just a track to write on.

Doug: The characters in this video are all put in these really venerable situations, and the performances are very real. How do you find actors capable of pulling off these types of performances?

Taylor: I've known Brendan Sexton III for many years. I produced a movie he starred in back in 2005 or 2006. I'm very lucky to have such a talented actor as a best friend. David and I pitched him the video and he immediately had ideas and was in. David had worked with Jessica Collins before and from the moment I met her I knew she was the right choice. Taylor Conzelman blew us all away with her performance as the disabled wife. She waited patiently for hours until we were ready for the bedroom scene and delivered a performance that no one saw coming. It was nuanced, unexpected, and totally exciting. I'd work wit her again in a second. It's cliche but they were all utterly fearless and totally professional. It's a pleasure and a privilege to work with talented actors.

Doug: When it comes to assembling the crew for a video like this, was the decision to hire guys like Jason and Eli based primarily on their technically abilities, or was there something more that went into bringing them on board?

Taylor: Jason is a fantastic producer with great taste and will go the extra mile for low budget jobs he believes in. Eli and I have worked together many times in the past and we thought he could bring his own sense of strangeness to the look. The vibe on set was rushed and a little chaotic at times but everyone got along very well and understood what we were trying to make.

Doug Klinger is the co-founder/content director of IMVDb and watches more music videos than anyone on earth. You can find him on twitter at @doug_klinger.