30 Seconds to Mars’ “The Kill (Bury Me)” is more than just a hit song; it’s a visual masterpiece, instantly recognizable for its haunting imagery and the unsettling atmosphere of its music video. The video, a loose adaptation of Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, largely unfolds within a single, unforgettable location: the historic Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire.
A Glimpse Inside the Overlook: The Mount Washington Hotel’s Star Turn
The choice of the Mount Washington Hotel as the primary setting was no accident. Director Bartholomew Cubbins (a pseudonym for Jared Leto himself) sought a location that possessed both grandeur and a palpable sense of unease, mirroring the psychological descent depicted in The Shining. The hotel, with its sprawling hallways, ornate architecture, and history steeped in tales of its own, provided the perfect canvas for the video’s narrative.
The “Overlook Hotel” in “The Kill” is not a direct replica of Kubrick’s iconic setting. Instead, it offers a reimagined, visually stunning iteration that captures the essence of isolation and the fracturing of the self. Specific areas of the Mount Washington Hotel were prominently featured, including:
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The Grand Ballroom: Its vastness serves as the backdrop for the song’s climactic performance scene, amplifying the band’s energy against a backdrop of decaying opulence.
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The Hotel’s Corridors: These labyrinthine passageways, with their distinctive carpeting and echoing acoustics, contribute significantly to the video’s sense of claustrophobia and the characters’ mounting paranoia.
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Specific Guest Rooms: While the infamous Room 237 from The Shining isn’t explicitly featured, certain guest rooms within the Mount Washington Hotel were used to portray the inner turmoil and psychological breakdown of the band members’ characters.
The hotel’s inherent beauty juxtaposed with the video’s darker themes creates a visually arresting experience. It’s this deliberate contrast that contributes to the enduring appeal of “The Kill.”
Unlocking the Secrets: Frequently Asked Questions About the Video
H3: General Inquiries
1. Was the entire video for “The Kill” filmed at the Mount Washington Hotel?
Yes, the majority of the filming for “The Kill” took place at the Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. While some minor scenes might have been shot elsewhere, the hotel serves as the central and defining location for the video.
2. When was “The Kill” music video filmed?
The video was filmed in February 2006. The timing likely contributed to the eerie atmosphere, as the winter landscape surrounding the hotel added to the sense of isolation.
3. Why did 30 Seconds to Mars choose the Mount Washington Hotel?
The band and director sought a location with a strong visual presence and a sense of history and unease. The hotel’s resemblance to the Overlook Hotel from The Shining, its grand architecture, and its isolated setting made it a perfect fit for the video’s themes.
4. Who directed “The Kill” music video?
The music video was directed by Bartholomew Cubbins, a pseudonym used by Jared Leto, the lead singer of 30 Seconds to Mars.
H3: Production and Artistic Influences
5. What was the budget for the “The Kill” music video?
While the exact budget hasn’t been publicly disclosed, it’s generally understood that “The Kill” had a relatively low budget, which is remarkable considering the video’s visual impact. This reinforces Leto’s reputation for creative resourcefulness.
6. What is the significance of the Shining references in the video?
The Shining references are deliberate and multi-layered. They serve to explore themes of isolation, identity, madness, and the duality of self. By drawing parallels to Kubrick’s film, the video delves into the psychological complexities of its characters.
7. How did the band feel about filming in such a historical and potentially “haunted” location?
Reports suggest the band enjoyed filming at the Mount Washington Hotel, embracing its history and atmosphere. Whether they personally experienced anything paranormal remains unconfirmed, but the eerie ambiance undoubtedly contributed to the video’s mood.
8. Are there any easter eggs or hidden meanings in the video beyond the Shining references?
Beyond the overt Shining references, the video utilizes symbolism related to masks, mirrors, and fractured reflections, further emphasizing the theme of fractured identity and the struggle to confront one’s inner demons. Careful viewers can also spot subtle visual cues related to the song’s lyrics.
H3: Visiting and Experiencing the Location
9. Can you actually visit the Mount Washington Hotel?
Yes, the Mount Washington Hotel is a fully operational resort and is open to the public. Visitors can stay at the hotel, dine at its restaurants, and explore its historical grounds.
10. Are there any “The Kill”-themed tours or experiences offered at the hotel?
While the hotel doesn’t currently offer explicitly “The Kill”-themed tours, visitors can explore the areas featured in the video and learn about the hotel’s history and architecture. Many fans enjoy recreating scenes from the video during their visits.
11. What is the best time of year to visit the Mount Washington Hotel for a “The Kill” experience?
While the hotel is beautiful year-round, visiting during the winter months can enhance the experience, mirroring the video’s chilly and isolated atmosphere. However, accessibility might be affected by weather conditions.
12. What are some things to keep in mind when visiting the hotel as a fan of the music video?
Be respectful of the hotel and its guests. Remember that it is a functioning business and not a film set. Photography is generally allowed, but avoid disrupting other guests or causing any damage. Most importantly, soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the history and beauty of this iconic location.
The Enduring Legacy: More Than Just a Location
The Mount Washington Hotel is more than just a backdrop for “The Kill”; it’s a character in itself. Its presence elevates the video from a simple music performance to a cinematic exploration of identity, isolation, and the power of confronting one’s inner demons. The strategic choice of location has undeniably contributed to the enduring popularity and iconic status of 30 Seconds to Mars’ most famous music video. The haunting beauty of the hotel, combined with the band’s intense performance and the video’s striking visuals, cements “The Kill” as a lasting cultural artifact.