Harry Styles demonstrated his commitment to authenticity in the new music video for his single ‘Aperture,’ by performing the majority of his own stunts, including a complex staircase fall that required multiple takes. Filmed at the iconic Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles, the video has drawn comparisons to Tom Cruise’s hands-on approach to action sequences, with news of the shoot breaking within the last 24 hours.
The production source revealed to TMZ that Styles personally handled most of the action stunts, with one particularly grueling sequence involving a fall down a staircase that took approximately six hours and several attempts to perfect. To ensure his safety, the crew constructed a ‘soft staircase’ for close-up shots, allowing Styles to fully commit to the physical demands without risking injury. This level of dedication highlights Styles’ willingness to go beyond typical music video performances, embracing a more cinematic and physically intensive role.
Filming took place over three days following a week of rehearsals, centered at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles, a location famed for its appearances in films like ‘True Lies’ and ‘Blade Runner,’ as well as Billie Eilish’s ‘Birds of a Feather’ music video. The choice of venue adds a layer of cinematic history to the video, connecting Styles’ work to a legacy of visual storytelling in iconic settings. The hotel’s unique architecture provided a dramatic backdrop for the choreographed sequences, enhancing the video’s aesthetic appeal.
In a behind-the-scenes detail reminiscent of Taylor Swift’s methods, Styles never played the song ‘Aperture’ during filming, meaning the cast and crew first heard the track when viewing the finished video. This approach created an element of surprise and allowed the visual narrative to develop independently of the audio, potentially influencing the performers’ reactions and the overall dynamic on set. Such techniques are increasingly common in high-profile productions, aiming to capture raw, spontaneous moments.
The video, directed by Aube Perrie, channels the spirit of Spike Jonze’s iconic ‘Weapon of Choice’ video for Fatboy Slim, featuring surreal dance and fight sequences with actor and choreographer Danny Dolan. Styles engages in a wire-assisted interplay with Dolan, evoking memories of Christopher Walken’s famous hotel lobby performance, and adding a layer of artistic homage to the project. This inspiration underscores Styles’ appreciation for music video history and his desire to blend action with artistic expression.
‘Aperture’ serves as the lead single from Styles’ upcoming album, ‘KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY.,’ set for release on March 6, 2026, via Erskine Recordings. The album marks his return after a hiatus and is described as disco-influenced, generating significant anticipation among fans and critics alike. The music video’s release strategically builds hype for the album, showcasing Styles’ evolution as an artist willing to experiment with new genres and visual styles.
Coinciding with the video’s buzz, Styles has announced his 2026 ‘Together, Together’ tour, featuring a seven-city residency with dates in Amsterdam, London, São Paulo, Mexico City, New York, Melbourne, and Sydney from May through December. The tour includes 30 shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden and a six-night run at Wembley Stadium, with special guests like Robyn, Shania Twain, and Jorja Smith. This extensive schedule reflects Styles’ global appeal and the high demand for his live performances, with tickets expected to sell out rapidly.
The immediate reaction to the video has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans and media praising Styles’ stunt work and the video’s creative direction. As the album release approaches, the success of ‘Aperture’ could set the tone for Styles’ musical trajectory, emphasizing a blend of theatricality and personal risk-taking. With ongoing tour preparations and potential future projects, Styles continues to solidify his status as a multifaceted entertainer capable of surprising his audience with innovative endeavors.
