With the release of Red (Taylor’s Version), Taylor Swift is not only reclaiming her intellectual property and rights to her own work, but with it, she reclaims the narrative of her own story.
“All Too Well” has been a fan-favourite ever since Red’s original release in 2012, so when Taylor herself started teasing the existence of a ten-minute version, fans could not relent until it saw the light of day. But Miss Swift surprised all when “All Too Well (10-minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)(From The Vault)” was released with an accompanying short film starring Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien.
Filmed entirely on 35mm, the short film encapsulates the essence of autumn vibes, while minimal dialogue moves along an all too familiar story of a toxic relationship unraveling. Delivering outstanding performances, particularly that of the leading lady, Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien empathetically portray a couple head over heels for each other (despite the glaring age difference).
A key moment midway through the short film pauses the music as viewers watch what should be a casual conversation devolve into gaslighting and manipulation in a matter of moments. The charismatic leading man is seen breaking his charming facade after being called out for ignoring his girlfriend in front of his friends. This all-too-familiar fight happens during a break in the titular song amidst lyrics that explore the disillusionment one feels as they get to know their partner during the course of a relationship.
The entire ten-minute version of “All Too Well”, and its accompanying short film have brought to life the nuances of the song’s original release in a beautifully creative way, with stunning performances, gorgeous visuals, and an aesthetic that has everyone wishing it was autumn again.
