Shorts showcase to demonstrate benefits, diversity of 4K production
Sony Electronics announced a 4K movie-making project "Sony/AFI 4K Shorts: Be Moved," showcasing the talents of the alumni of the AFI Conservatory, the world renowned film school of the American Film Institute (AFI).
The exclusive collaboration was officially unveiled last night at a reception held during the Institute's annual film festival — AFI Fest presented by Audi – where Sony executives and AFI Conservatory leaders announced they will source treatments for short films from alumni that will be finished in 4K and premiered at select film, television and electronics industry events through 2014. The content will also be on Sony's Video Unlimited 4K download service, available to consumers who buy a Sony 4K Ultra HD TV.
The concept behind the "Be Moved" shorts, each 4 minutes in length, is to demonstrate the unique capabilities of Sony 4K technology to complement and expand a director's artistic vision.
"Sony has long been a committed supporter of the arts and of AFI – putting state-of-the-art filmmaking tools in the hands of AFI Fellows for more than a decade," said Stephen Lighthill, ASC, Senior Filmmaker-in-Residence, Cinematography at AFI. "This exciting project provides filmmakers with the opportunity to develop content that best represents the cutting-edge nature of 4K and highlights the capabilities and range of 4K technology as an immersive story-telling medium."
Five selected filmmakers from the AFI Conservatory alumni network will be provided with a full camera package built around Sony's F65, F55 or NEX-FS700R 4K camera technologies. Sony and AFI are working with production company Rough & Tumble, headed by AFI alumnus and award-winning feature film producer Brian Udovich, to manage the program with support from leading production industry rental companies and post production houses. Additional production support will be available from Sony's Digital Motion Picture Center on the Sony Pictures lot, where Sony offers hands-on training for 4K shooting and workflow techniques.
The Sony/AFI "Be Moved" project kicks off at a critical time in 4K technology's commercial and creative evolution. Movies and TV shows are increasingly being shot with Sony 4K cameras, including several films about to hit theaters and more than a dozen new fall TV programs. Commercials, music videos, and sports producers are shooting with Sony 4K cameras and recently the fashion world has realized the benefits of 4K. The technology's place in movie theater projection is proven, with more than 15,000 Sony 4K projectors installed worldwide.
"Sony prides itself on providing the Hollywood production community with the highest-quality tools for creation and distribution of their content," said Alec Shapiro, president of Sony Electronics' Professional Solutions of America group. "We see 4K image creation rapidly becoming the new standard for motion picture production. Our camera systems are delivering beautiful images with instantly recognizable improved aesthetic quality. Working with AFI we will be able to put these wonderful tools intro creative hands and truly share the concept of 'Be Moved' with an even broader audience."
For consumers, Sony 4K Ultra HD TVs are continuing their strong sales success at key retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Sony Direct stores, as well as specialty consumer electronics retailers. Sony's new Video Unlimited 4K download service is also bringing 4K content to the home in new ways.
"Sony has driven the adoption of 4K from professional production to the consumer experience in terms of content creation, movie theaters, and now the home with the world's first 4K download service," said Phil Molyneux, president and COO, Sony Electronics. "Clearly there is a strong consumer appetite for a wonderful 4K experience in both homes and theaters. Now Sony, in partnership with the AFI, is taking this to another level by supporting film producers and directors and highlighting the benefits of capturing new, relevant and compelling 4K content through this program."
The Many Hires Jeremiah Wassom As Group Creative Director
Independent agency The Many has added Jeremiah Wassom as group creative director.
Wassom most recently worked a decade at Deutsch LA where, as SVP/creative director, he led the Taco Bell account and won new business for the agency. His agency past also includes AKQA and TBWAChiatDay. His creative work has touched the QSR, video games, automotive, fashion, and culture brand sectors. He also served eight years with the United States Marine Corps.
“Throughout his career, Jeremiah has helmed work that has not only made me personally jealous but has consistently pushed brands to show up in memorable and innovative ways,” said Josh Paialii, head of creative at The Many. “One look at his body of work and you will see his passion for storytelling and craft has raised the bar for entire categories, driving participation with many brands’ most loyal fans. Beyond being a world-class creative director and maker, Wassom is a proven team player and strategic thought leader. He’ll be a great addition to the leadership team at The Many working across all accounts. His role will be immediately felt as he guides and supports each of the creative leads in the department.”
A 20-year creative with agency, brand, and freelance experience, Wassom has forged a creative approach which focuses on crafting engaging connections rather than simply make ads. He sees the need for advertising to mean more, not simply do more.
The Many believes that true business growth is made possible by harnessing the power of participation and partners with brands to forge deeper connections with consumers, cultivate trust and loyalty, and maximize marketing spend and execution. The agency is built around a flexible model that offers a suite of capabilities, including... Read More