Synopsis

Elvis Costello and The Attractions perform "Pump It Up" in a stark, studio-like setting dominated by a white background. Costello delivers the song with exaggerated facial expressions, restless movements, and his trademark jerky dancing, while the camera uses tight close-ups and a fisheye effect to heighten the song's manic energy. The band plays in a stripped-down performance setup, with Costello repeatedly commanding attention at the center as the visual style matches the track's urgent, nervous pulse.

Factoids & Trivia

• The video was made in 1978 to promote "Pump It Up," the second single from Costello's album *This Year's Model*.

• It was filmed on the same day as the promotional video for "(I Don't Want to Go to) Chelsea." The musicians wear the same outfits in both videos.

• Bassist Bruce Thomas had cut his right hand on a bottle and required eight stitches. His bandage is visible in the footage.

• Because of Thomas' injury, some shots focus on Costello alone rather than showing the complete band performing together.

• Costello later remembered the production as inexpensive and criticized the fisheye lens for making his eyes appear unusually large.

• The video is notable for capturing Costello's highly physical stage persona, particularly his angular, involuntary-looking dance movements.