OWL BE DAMNED: San Diego’s antihero stuck in unending day
San Diego’s OWL BE DAMNED presents a unique take on the antihero trope in their latest music video, trapping their protagonist, Doug, in a day filled with bizarre encounters and obstacles that prevent him from making any progress. The band, consisting of Douglas Thompson, Joshua Boggs, Tom Lord, and Ben Johnson, brings a fresh perspective to the traditional narrative of feeling isolated and struggling to navigate life’s challenges.
The video for their song “10:01” showcases Doug’s journey through a world that seems determined to push him away. From being yelled at, pelted with objects, and met with disdain for unknown reasons, Doug faces a series of hurdles that make every step towards getting home feel like a monumental task. The warped sense of time in the video, achieved by filming at half speed and then adjusting the pace later, highlights Doug’s stagnation amidst a fast-paced world.
The band’s drummer, Ben Johnson, explains that the video’s chaotic scenes, including whipped cream pies, old fruits, and condiments, were both planned and improvised, adding to the frenetic energy of the narrative. Despite the challenges, the cast, mostly comprised of volunteers, embraced the controlled chaos, with Johnson emphasizing the importance of adaptability and spontaneity on set.
While some sequences in the video were meticulously choreographed, others were influenced by external factors like the San Diego sunshine, which posed challenges in achieving the desired lighting and visual effects. Johnson’s dual roles as the production director allowed for a blend of structured planning and on-the-fly adjustments to ensure the video’s completion within the allotted time frame.
“10:01” marks the latest installment in OWL BE DAMNED’s visual storytelling, following the success of their previous video, “Barcodes.” The band’s debut album, released in December 2024, laid the foundation for their narrative-driven approach to music videos, with Johnson exploring parallel projects that merge music and film into immersive rock and roll experiences.
In the end, Doug’s journey in the video remains unresolved, mirroring the existential struggles many face in their daily lives. As he continues walking through a world that rejects him without explanation, OWL BE DAMNED invites audiences to contemplate themes of isolation, perseverance, and the relentless passage of time in a world that often feels out of sync.