Ben Ib returns to music videos with a videogame-style promo that reflects real world events to chilling effect for veteran rocker Bryan Adams. 

The project follows the director and artist's collaboration on What If There Were No Sides At All, which utilised Unreal Engine to place Bryan inside the war-torn locations of Ukraine and Gaza. 

The video for War Machine - Adams' take on the KISS's classic, which he actually originally wrote - takes a similarly ambitious direction, following a group of soldiers as they enter a destroyed city while air crew above continue their missile bombardment - and the suits behind the operation.

Ib treads a fine line between the anti-war message of the song and the impressive rendering of modern warfare, created in CG animation, merged with elements of live action - and notably casts Adams in the role of warmongering President, who finally gets his comeuppance.

"I was stoked when Bryan approached me to put some visual chaos and destruction to his original demo version of this heavy metal classic," explains Ben Ib.

"We developed a Dr Strangelove-esque spin on the whole thing, honing in on the sheer stupidity of today's hi-tech wars. So the whole game engine look was perfect for where it was heading.

"The video was shot on green screen in Bryan’s London studio. Everyone pitched in during the shoot and we all had a blast- Look out for me and (styling assistant) Flossie's cameo roles as CIA operatives!"

Ben Ib himself handled all elements of post production - CG animation, editing, keying and grading - in Unreal Engine. He also roughed out the sound, which was then put together by Hayden Watson.

"It was great to work with Bryan on this one and he was incredibly patient and encouraging with the lengthy process of the CG production -ie. me in a dark room for three months," he says. 

"Whilst I handled traditional director duties it was truly a collaborative effort. We had built up a great working relationship during the 'No Sides' video. So we had loads of fun exchanging ideas over the months as the concept took shape. Hopefully he’s happy with the result!"