American Life

A highly controversial music video for the single American Life from Madonna’s ninth studio album of the same name was directed by Madonna’s old associate, Swedish director Jonas Åkerlund, who also directed such Madonna’s videos as Ray of Light (1998) and Music (2000). Filming was performed in February, 2003 at Los Angeles Center Studios in Los Angeles, California. Nicola Doring was producer of the filming.

And again like in What It Feels Like for a Girl and Die Another Day videos Madonna touched the theme of violence, denouncing United States President George W. Bush's decision to smash in Iraq. The video featured terrible war scenes and a strong peace message. Madonna told: "I am not Anti-Bush. I am not pro-Iraq. I am pro Peace. I have written a song and created a video which expresses my feelings about our culture and values and the illusions of what many people believe is the American dream - the perfect life. I am grateful to have the freedom to express these feelings and that's how I honor my country." But later Madonna released the edited version of American Life video, which featured Madonna singing in military garb in front of world flags. Besides where was created the third version of the video just a bit different of the original one.

The original American Life video was in MTV airing only a couple times and later it was banned. Due to affecting US political interest the song was considered one of Madonna’s riskiest songs.