This :60 opens on a man smoking a cigarette and holding a cup of coffee. Next we see a woman nervously tugging at her ear.
The camera then reveals that they are members of a support group that is about to start a session. Some folks are milling about by the coffee percolator, while others are already seated in chairs grouped into a circle.
The group leader/psychologist-type calls the proceedings to order. "Okay, let’s get going," he says. "Welcome everyone. Let’s join hands, please."
Everyone takes a seat and each participant holds hands with the person on either side of him or her, thus symbolically closing the circle. They then say in unison, "We’re all here. We’re all here for each other."
The group leader then introduces a new guest to the proceedings, John. "John, tell us a little bit about yourself and why you’re here," says the leader, trying to draw out the nervous-looking newcomer.
John then proceeds to tell his story, albeit unconventionally. He breaks out into a bizarre ballet dance, maneuvering within the circle of chairs. He thrusts himself into the air and at one point acts as if he is swimming on the floor.
Reaction shots of the other group members, including the leader, show incredulity, bewilderment and astonishment. Clearly some of his new encounter group "friends" think John is nuts.
This expressionist performance finally ends. John, acting as if nothing out of the ordinary has occurred, sits calmly back down in his chair.
A supered message then observes, "Not everyone can communicate through dance," as we hear the group leader say, "Thank you for sharing, John."
A logo for the Colorado Ballet appears, accompanied by a phone number to call for ticket information.
Titled "Meeting," the spot was directed by Jeff Labbé. A former agency creative, Labbé directed the spot independently, linking with Oil Factory Films, Beverly Hills, Calif., to produce the job, for Denver ad agency Extra Strength. (Labbé has since joined bicoastal/international @radical.media.)
The Extra Strength creative team consisted of art directors Toby Balai and Brad Harrison, copywriter Toby Smith and producer Kevin Diller.
Billy Poveda executive produced for Oil Factory, with Greg Tharp serving as producer. Steve Chivers was the DP.
The editor was Steve Prestemon, who at the time was with Mad River Post, Santa Monica; he has since joined Cosmo Street, Santa Monica (SHOOT, 11/19, p. 9). Colorist/online editor was Siggy Ferstl of R!OT, Santa Monica. Audio post mixer was Eric Ryan of RavensWork, Venice, Calif.
Sound designers were Stephen Dewey and Chris Smith of Machine Head, Venice. Vicki Ordeshook produced for Machine Head.
