Synopsis

Set in a stark studio-like environment, Annie appears as same-sex couples and other participants embrace and kiss around her. The camera favors intimate, sensual encounters over a conventional storyline, turning the song's club pulse into a direct statement about the right to show affection publicly. Bjarne Melgaard joins the onscreen tableau, while the escalating make-out imagery culminates in deliberately provocative male vocalizations. The result is an erotic protest film confronting Russia's anti-LGBT laws.

Factoids & Trivia

• "Russian Kiss" was released on February 7, 2014, the opening day of the Sochi Winter Olympics. The timing was intended to focus attention on Russia's anti-LGBT legislation while the country was under international scrutiny.

• The project was conceived as a collaboration between Annie and Norwegian visual artist Bjarne Melgaard. Melgaard also contributed vocals and served as the video's art director.

• The song was produced by Richard X, with additional vocals from Melgaard and Andy Baumecker. Its lyrics were written by Annie and Richard X.

• The video was filmed in Melgaard's studio in Bushwick, Brooklyn. The shoot took place shortly before Annie and Melgaard discussed the project in an interview.

• The track draws on the sexually charged 1990s Eurodance hit "French Kiss." Annie specifically recruited two Russian men for the exaggerated moaning heard as the song builds toward its climax.

• The film was supported by Norway's Fritt Ord Foundation, which promotes freedom of expression and free speech.

• Part of the proceeds from the release was donated to All Out, a nonprofit organization supporting LGBT rights.

• "Russian Kiss" continued the artistic relationship between Annie and Melgaard, who had previously worked together on the interdisciplinary project "The Night Within Us!" and its accompanying film.