The Duo Explains: War Twins - 'Right or Wrong'
We chat to James Grey of Art Rock Grunge Pop duo War Twins about the outfit’s deliciously vengeful Hitchcock and Fellini inspired music video for ,‘Right or Wrong’, which explores band member Gaetana’s experiences with domestic abuse, and growing into empowerment despite going through hell.
Where was the video for ‘Right or Wrong’ filmed?
James Grey: At a castle in La Cañada, California, of course.
How does the video connect with the song?
JG: The video accompanies the song’s narrative of struggling with domestic abuse, and growing into empowerment despite going through hell. In the video, Gaetana plays a women caught in an abusive relationship, fantasising her revenge of poisoning her parter, and finding her freedom. There are a lot of levels going on, and I don’t want to give them all away.
Do you have any behind the scenes stories you could share with us?
JG: Foxforce (who filmed and directed the video) were amazing to work with. The lights used to light the set for each shot were actually used in the movie ‘Titanic’. Late at night, rushing to get things done before we had to leave the property, one of us (not naming names) stepped in dog poop and dragged it through half the castle. So then we had to hurry to clean that up in time on top of finishing the last shots.
Can you tell us about the ideas/ themes/ imagery used?
JG: Foxforce was hugely responsible for the incredible visuals and concepts, and with working with us to build the storyline we wanted to tell. Julin had a great intuitive vision inspired by the vibe of Federico Fellini and Alfred Hitchcock, and I really think it matched the tone of the song perfectly.
Is there a message the video is trying to convey?
JG: The video both has a message and invites you to ask your own questions (what is Right or Wrong for you?).
In a broader sense, Gaetana has said: “To be honest, this project was a way for me to heal. When I began writing for War Twins, I felt a strong desire to give a message of brutal honesty, empowerment and strength. I didn’t know at the time that this was because it was what I needed myself. I am a survivor of rape, domestic violence and abuse, so for me this project has been about reclaiming who I am in a powerful way, even when it makes me uncomfortable.””
Interview by Karla Harris