The Duo Explains: Mating Ritual - 'Game'
We chatted to Mating Ritual about their Viking-inspired visuals for ‘Game’ which explores the consequences of becoming too disassociated with reality.
Where was the video for ‘Game’ filmed?
The ‘Game’ video was filmed mostly in east LA (Ernest debs park/highland park) and some shots in downtown.
How does the video connect with the song?
The video shows a man who doesn’t fit in with his surroundings but is playing the “Game” to make it seem like everything’s alright, when it probably isn’t. Everyone else can see it clearly but he thinks he’s got everything under control.
Do you have any behind the scenes stories you could share with us?
Surprisingly not many people give a shit if you swing a sword around in public in LA.
Can you tell us about the ideas/ themes/ imagery used?
The video is solely focused on me dressed in my medieval Viking gear (something I like to do as a hobby) wandering around modern day LA. Getting tacos and going to a bar, etc. When I’m alone in my backyard doing “Viking” activities I’m happy as a clam but when I’m in normal situations I feel lonely and off.
Is there a message the video is trying to convey?
The main message of the video is to show how dissociating from reality can be fun and therapeutic, but too much of a good thing can lead you into very lonely corner. Dressing up like a Viking and going to renaissance fairs is how I like to dissociate from reality and take a breather but for other people it could just be your social media account. So try and stay grounded, folks.
Interview feature by Karla Harris