When we last left our heroes, Jimmy was having a mental breakdown in the middle of the woods. If you’ve been a Reus fan for a while now, you potentially posed the questions, “What’s next? How is the mythology of Jimmy going to unfold?” Previous videos establish the up and coming horror icon’s intense back story with symbolism hinting at MK Ultra in “Thoughts Revoked” and Jimmy absolutely bodying a corporate pig in his debut, “Cultist.” One could expect that the lore was about to build off the illusions set in “Thoughts Revoked,” however, Actus Reus new music video, “Actus Reus,” completely demolishes those expectations. While theorizing about Jimmy is an absolute blast, “Actus Reus” diverts from his story and instead introduces us to the masterminds behind him. They’re back with their upcoming release on December 9th, and they’re here to tell us exactly who they are.
“Actus Reus” is as an eclectic art piece, establishing there is no limit to the band’s creativity. As always, there is an element of lighthearted fun peppered in, observe, Jimmy unicycling. The track is a powerhouse of an anthem, commanding attention towards subtle symbolism animated throughout the video. Amidst the calls to personal power and the Grim Reaper chasing everybody, a creature morphs from looking vaguely human with a third eye glaring around as it melts back into “ACTUS REUS.” The blank walls and no animations building off of it leave it as a hint at an awareness awakening.
With the announcement of their 2023 EP, Mens Rea Pt. 1, “Actus Reus” is the perfect cliffhanger to this chapter in the journey. The explosion of ideas in the video leave so many avenues open to be explored, potential new characters that could join Jimmy, and of course, revealing more about the icon himself. Aesthetically speaking, “Actus Reus” is the perfect blend of the art the Actus Crew has come to love as well as new affects that stray from the comfort zone of dense forests, knives, and abandoned houses. Of course, it can be visited again, because who doesn’t love a good breakdown in the woods, but, “Actus Reus” felt fresh. Granted, Actus Reus has shown themselves to be a band that won’t go into a box. They know and embody the fact that legends do whatever the hell they want. They aren’t afraid to show how much they love their art, and, more importantly, they have fun with it. The future is excitedly anticipated. From here, the adventure is just beginning, and it’s going to be one hell of a ride.
