The directorial duo of Haein Kim and Paul Rhodes, aka Haein & Paul, has joined Nexus Studios for worldwide representation spanning commercials, branded content and music videos.
This is believed to be the first time that the directing team has signed with a production house. However, they have collaborated in the past with Nexus sister shop/Sydney branch, Mighty Nice. Kim and Rhodes are based in Sydney.
Haein & Paul’s short film, Peepin’, a delicately crafted, humorous take on playground politics, was featured at several festivals including Pictoplasma, KLIK and the prestigious AACTAs (The Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards) and placed Kim on It’s Nice That’s list of “Ones to Watch.” Beyond its laugh-out-loud comedy, Peepin’ also reflects the race-related issues that overshadowed both of the artists’ experiences growing up in Australia, a common thread running through most of their work.
Each bringing their own perspective but united in their passion for depicting very real, human stories, the two are able to tackle big topics with heart and humor. Taking inspiration from the likes of Japanese artist Misaki Kawai and the risograph style of Indie comic books, their work mixes hand drawn, abstract character design with dynamic 2D animation, which has attracted the attention of brands such as Nike, MTV and Uniqlo.
Nexus Studios co-founder and executive creative director Christopher O’Reilly said, “Haein & Paul have a unique take on animated storytelling with their kinetic, bold approach making their work unmistakably recognizable. They are exciting new voices in animation, telling stories with humor, warmth and graphic verve.”
