The video was generally well received by critics , with some noting its similar theme to the music video for Christina Aguilera 's song " Beautiful " . Byron Flitsch of MTV Buzzworthy remarked , " We 'd be lying if we did n't admit that the video left us feeling a bit melancholy , but we 're pretty sure that 's its job . That and to remind us that a ) that Kelly is looking more flawless than ever , and be nice to every single person in the world . " Robbie Daw of Idolator wrote , " The tune keeps with theme of her previous singles ' Mr. Know It All ' and ' Stronger ( What Does n’t Kill You ) ' , in that Clarkson lyrically delves into her own well of inner strength — though she does come across as more vulnerable here . And the video for the clip reflects that . " Elena Gorgan of Softpedia noted , " ' Dark Side ' is simple and somewhat understated , which allows it to include so many ' stories , ' ( '' sic '' ) each touching in its own right , each perfect to exemplify the beautiful text of the track . " Amy Sciarretto of Popcrush wrote , " Clarkson mixes performance footage with socially conscious commentary and critique . But she does n’t smash you over the head with a message . She 's not soapboxing it . Instead , it 's subtle and therefore much more effective , making the viewer think . " Later adding , " The video eloquently shows that we all have dark sides , but that ’s just one side and not the whole story . It does n't make up a person 's identity . Dark sides are just one of the many factors that make us who we are ! No one is perfect and our flaws make us interesting . Clarkson helps us realize that with her smart video . Sarah Maloy of '' Billboard '' wrote , " Clarkson tackles demons of sorts in her new video for ' Dark Side . ' As the singer showcases people facing drug addiction , alcoholism , unemployment , weight issues and marital problems in ' Dark Side , ' Clarkson sings of how better days are to come . " The Video was nominated in the category for Best Video with a Message at the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards however it lost to Demi Lovato 's Skyscraper
2012 MTV Video Music Awards
2012 MTV Video Music Awards
Dark Side (Kelly Clarkson song)