10 of the Fiercest Females in Francis Lawrence’s Life (Before Jennifer Lawrence)

swaggernewyork.com

When Francis Lawrence took over for Gary Ross as the director of Catching Fire, there’s a good chance you had never heard of him. However, what you probably didn’t know, is that he was the man behind a number of iconic music videos throughout the last two decades.

That’s right — Francis has directed music videos for mega stars such as Beyonce, Britney Spears, and Lady Gaga (to name a few). Um, no big deal or anything. Looking back on these vids, it’s easy to see why someone like Francis would be chosen for Catching Fire — he’s used to working with strong, powerful, and independent women. (Just like Jennifer Lawrence and Katniss Everdeen, duh!)

To see who else he has worked with (and what videos he helmed) check them out below!

1. Monica, “For You I Will” (1997)

Already showing interest in the movie AND music video world, this single was featured on the Space Jam soundtrack. Michael Jordan making an appearance in one of his early music videos? Francis’ star power knows no bounds.

2. Jennifer Lopez, “Waiting For Tonight” (1999)

Some people might not remember this, but this video was actually featured on MTV’s hit show Making the Video, and yes, Francis was the man behind the camera for one of J.Lo’s debut singles.

3. Whitney Houston ft. Enrique Iglesias, “Could I Have This Kiss Forever” (2000)

Yet another woman who has made a huge impact on music that Francis got to work with. And since this video also features Enrique Iglesias, it shows he knows how to properly convey steamy on-camera chemistry.

4. Janet Jackson, “Someone to Call My Lover” (2001)

This video has a pretty simple feel to it — Janet drives around in a car, sings in a field, and heads to a bar. But of course, Francis find a way to make it cute and fun. Directing a music video for the King of Pop’s sister? Doesn’t get much better than that, does it?

5. Britney Spears, “I’m a Slave 4 U” (2001)

Remember when we said it doesn’t get any better than that? Well, it does. Believe it or not, Francis directed Britney’s now iconic music video for the even more iconic song. “I’m a Slave 4 U” certainly does have a post-apocalyptic feel to it — perhaps this helped with Catching Fire?

6. Pink, “Just Like a Pill” (2002)

Pink is the epitome of a bad ass, independent woman — just like Katniss. This is definitely one of Pink’s darker videos, so it obviously shows that Francis has range as a director!

7. Shakira, “Whenever, Wherever” (2001)

While at this point in his career he had obviously worked with some of music’s biggest names, directing the video for Shakira’s debut American single definitely shows that Francis knows talent when he sees it.

8. Gwen Stefani, “What You Waiting For” (2005)

Things get kinda trippy in this Alice in Wonderland themed video, so it just proves Francis is cool with all kinds of special effects!

9. Lady Gaga, “Bad Romance” (2009)

We’re sure the song itself is one of the main reasons this video has over 546 MILLION views on YouTube, but Francis was obviously able to work with Lady Gaga to make a visually stunning video that keeps people coming back for more.

10. Beyonce, “Run the World (Girls)” (2011)

Last but CERTAINLY not least, Francis worked with the QUEEN of female empowerment on this girl power anthem. Go, Francis!

What do you think of Francis’ flawless video track record? Does it give you faith that he’s done an amazing job with Catching Fire? Sound off in the comments section!