Though titled "Secret Agent," this spot really pays homage to "Q," the scientist who created those incredible beyond-the-state-of-the-art gadgets for James Bond. Yet there’s something to be said for simpler tools of the trade—as evidenced in this spot for the American Red Cross’ Oregon chapters.
The :30 opens on a close-up of a laser beam eating through a steel safe. Wielding the portable laser is an elderly man in gray tweed suit and tie.
A suave, dapper secret agent-type, stylishly dressed in a tuxedo, enters the room. "Making an early withdrawal, Jones?" he asks the scientist.
"Good morning, agent Franklin," responds Jones, reaching into a duffle bag to pull out a can of soup. "Now this new device is actually a nourishing meal sealed in a metal cylinder," he explains.
Franklin appears impressed. But Jones isn’t done yet. "To access the meal," says the scientist, "you use this device." Jones pulls out a manual can opener from the duffel bag.
"That’s good for openers," quips Franklin. "What else have you got, Jones?"
"You’re going to love—this," promises the scientist. Following a suspenseful pause, he displays a bottle of drinking water.
The live action gives way to a series of three schematic icons, each depicting an important step in emergency preparedness: building an earthquake kit, making an exit plan from one’s house or office, and getting CPR training. Simultaneously a male voiceover states, "You’d be surprised, what can save your life."
The spot ends with the American Red Cross logo, designating the Oregon chapters and flashing a Web site address: PrepareForLife.org.
"Secret Agent" was directed and shot by John Campbell via One-Eighty Films, Portland, Ore. Campbell is a noted feature DP whose credits include a pair of Gus Van Sant-directed films: My Own Private Idaho and Even Cowgirls Get the Blues. Alan Lemley executive produced and line produced for One-Eighty.
The Nerve creative team consisted of creative director Austin Howe, art director Marty Butler, copywriter Geoff Rodgers and producer Alysia Alder. Design work was done by Steve Sandstrom of Sandstrom Design, Portland.
"Secret Agent" was edited by Steve Griner of Mission Control, Portland; his Mission Control colleague Mike Quinn served as Flame/graphics artist. Colorist was Jim Barrett of DownStream digital, Portland. Audio mixer Lance Limbocker is also of DownStream.
