Ruben Latre of Hostage Films directed this short film which is part of Samsung's ongoing social responsibility efforts. The piece (a special trailer for which is linked to this story) introduces us to the Oromia Region of Ethiopia where there is no running water and no electricity.
Due to remoteness and travel restrictions, Latre was brought onboard as director, DP, and crew of one; shooting two cameras on location. It was a stark contrast to New York City, where the director is based. The village houses are made of straw; the floors, of dirt. The technology for metalwork and fabric resembles colonial American museums. Similarities were abundant as well; people are people everywhere.
The film tells the story of a young girl Aster and her village, whose lives are transformed by the gift of light.
Samsung's contribution to the region, in partnership with a local NGO, comes in the form of solar panels that, in turn, are used to charge lanterns; providing the only light source to the dark terrain, other than the sun.
Agency is Agenda, NY.
Latre was in SHOOT's 2011 New Directors Showcase.
Director Kacper Larski Joins RSA Films For Spot Representation
RSA Films has added director Kacper Larski to its roster for commercial representation in the U.S. Larski is known for his work in automotive and sport, and a style of filmmaking which features epic visuals and gripping montage, often combining the real and surreal. Among his most recent commercial films are Garmin’s “Fenix 8” (direct to brand), U.S. Army Reserve’s “Helper” (DDB Chicago) and Bushmills Whiskey’s “Follow No One” (Mekanism). He’s also directed campaigns for Hyundai, Jeep, GMC, Subaru, VW, Mazda and Chevrolet.
Larski’s distinctive aesthetic emerged in one of his first projects, Land Rover’s “68 Years Later,” which won a Cannes Young Directors Award in 2016. Two years later, he directed the “Greatness is Rare” campaign for BBDO Toronto and the Canadian Paralympic Committee which won Cannes Lion Gold. Prior to joining RSA, Larski had most recently been repped in the U.S. market by production house Eleanor.
“The camera and film for me have always been about the ability to live 1,000 lives,” Larski said. “Stylistically, I want to transport viewers in whatever stories I’m telling--a super athlete’s runner’s high, a skier’s dream powder, a giant’s tale, even driving in space.”
“Kacper is one of the most exciting filmmakers I’ve seen over the last several years,” said Luke Ricci, president, RSA Films US. “Whether it’s a character, an emotion, an environment, car or other product, he has a special and distinctive way of capturing and articulating the world around him in all his work. He is a fantastic addition to our RSA family.”
“Joining RSA is a dream come true,” Larski said. “The roster includes some of the best filmmakers in the world, with founder Ridley Scott... Read More