Effie Pappa Captures a Dreamy 1940's Throwback for Yusuf/Cat Stevens 'Wild World'

To celebrate the fifty year anniversary of his seminal album ‘Tea for the Tillerman’, Yusuf / Cat Stevens has reimagined some of his most well loved tracks for 2020. In times like these, Wild World reminds us that even the toughest days can be brightened by the optimistic perspective of youth.

Drawing inspiration from the 1942 classic movie Casablanca, director Effie Pappa takes us into a dreamy 1940’s world of war and difficultly, as Yusuf’s stunning rendition of his own 1970’s track guides our thoughts towards hope, and the belief in better. Rendering a modern day filter on the 1940s story reveals how different yet how similar some of the global issues we now face.

Developed and produced remotely between the UK and Greece, the video is a testament to the spirit of optimism in the new world we find ourselves in.

“The film shows how much we need art to direct our thoughts sometimes towards inexpressible goals; to relive early childlike innocence and keep our eyes of hope open beyond the clouds of war and darkness.” - Yusuf / Cat Stevens

Director Effie Pappa said:“When we come into the world we are taught life’s lessons through imaginary tales, juxtaposing life’s turbulences and misfortunes with stories borrowed from another universe, creating a safe place. Coming to Wild World as adults, this safe area tends to be neglected and lost in space - a vague memory from distant childhood.

Yusuf’s iconic song ‘Wild World’ has spoken to a number of generations, and to my eyes the lyrics are letters from a younger self. I strongly felt the urge to create something that would equally be a recall to our inner child and that exact same safe place.

Gambling and winning, loss and acceptance, war and love, are a few of the themes that are depicted through this film, borrowing classic themes from Casablanca to reimagine ‘Wild World’ for 2020, and celebrate the comeback of ‘Tea For The Tillerman 2.’”

Enjoy the flight!