Production studio Identity continues to ramp up its tabletop capabilities and expand its roster of talent with the addition of director Kevan Bean.
Bean honed his expertise in painting, learning composition, color, and tone before subsequently bringing his distinctive visual flair behind the lens in award-winning campaigns, Super Bowl ads, and spots for the likes of McDonald’s, Subway, Burger King, Olive Garden, and more. “Kevan brings a fresh, innovative approach to tabletop filmmaking that aligns perfectly with Identity’s vision,” says Identity owner/executive producer Joe Masi. “[His] mastery of high-speed cinematography, liquid dynamics, and in-camera effects elevates product storytelling. Kevan’s innovative techniques will enhance our client offerings and his expertise will push creative boundaries, enhance our production capabilities, and evolve into a long-term partnership.”
Driven by the mantra of “just do the work,” which was instilled by his father, directing legend Bob Bean, Kevan Bean found his true calling, which provided him an outlet to see how far technique can be pushed while coming up with new approaches to evolve the genre. From a broader perspective, Bean offers his own viewpoint on how his particular, highly technical discipline has transformed over the years. “Tabletop has undergone a remarkable evolution,” he said. “The fundamentals of capturing food in a way that feels intimate, sensory, and appetizing remain unchanged, but the tools and techniques have advanced dramatically. Advances in motion control, high-speed cinematography, and CGI have expanded the possibilities, allowing us to craft more immersive and emotionally resonant experiences. Yet, at its heart, tabletop remains an art form grounded in nature and authenticity, where sensitivity and storytelling are key to making the work truly stand out.”
Bean said of his decision to join Identity, “I was drawn to the idea of joining an eclectic roster where each filmmaker brings something unique to the table while maintaining a standard of excellence.”
Having joined Identity, Bean also reunites with the studio’s managing partner Gloria Colangelo, with whom he forged a working relationship that goes back decades, including their time at MacGuffin Films. “We were partners for over 20 years, and I have always considered Kevan one of the most talented tabletop directors in the industry,” Colangelo said. “His artistic sensibility shines through in his craft, setting him apart. Kevan’s deep belief that food must always appear appetizing–a quality increasingly rare in today’s market–is a testament to his dedication. I also admire his ability to partner with clients and work with them for years, helping them refine their visual identity while keeping their brand fresh and relevant.”
