Filmmaker Francis Lawrence directed the music video for " Cry Me a River " in Malibu , California . In the controversial video , Timberlake 's character invades the home of his ex-lover and films himself having sexual relations with another woman . Spears alleged that the video was a publicity stunt , but Timberlake maintained that she did not inspire the production . The clip won the awards for Best Male Video and Best Pop Video at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards . Timberlake performed " Cry Me a River " on his four major concert tours : The Justified World Tour ( 2003 – 04 ) , Justified and Stripped Tour ( 2003 ) , FutureSex/LoveShow ( 2007 ) , and The 20/20 Experience World Tour ( 2013 – 15 ) . The song has been covered by various recording artists , including Kelly Clarkson and Taylor Swift
2003 MTV Video Music Awards
2003 MTV Video Music Awards
Cry Me a River (Justin Timberlake song)