Baker Smith of harvest films directed this :60 spot starring the AFLAC duck–but uncharacteristically our feathered friend never quacks the brand cry “AFLAC.” In fact, the duck is silent throughout this spot as we see him progress through sessions of physical therapy, initially barely able to climb stairs, lift weights or paddle in the water.
A voiceover explains that AFLAC insurance eliminates having to worry about how to pay for expenses like groceries, child care and rent, thus helping people to focus on what really matters–their recovery from injury or illness.
The Rocky III anthem “Eye of the Tiger” kicks in as we see the duck progressing rapidly in the gym, cheered on by his human trainer/physical therapist. The duck is eventually able to climb the stairs, lift weights with his wings, jump rope and paddle at a brisk pace.
For more on the duck’s rehab, a website address–ducktherapy.com–appears on screen.
Agency was Publicis Kaplan Thaler, New York.
Robert Eggers and Willem Dafoe Reunite For “Nosferatu”
When Willem Dafoe enjoys working with a filmmaker, he'll often jump at the chance to do it again.
The list of directors with whom the 69-year-old has worked with more than once is extensive, including Wes Anderson,Yorgos Lanthimos,Paul Schrader,Lars von Trier and, now for a third time, Robert Eggers. "If it's good, you come back," Dafoe said plainly.
The pair spoke about Eggers' adaptation of "Nosferatu" that hits theaters Wednesday, some of the challenges they faced making "The Lighthouse" — their first project together released in 2019 — and the unique relationship that exists between actors and directors.
The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
Q: Willem, I read that you called Robert after you saw "The Witch." What did you say?
DAFOE: I want to meet you and I want to know who this filmmaker is.
Q: What is it about him that keeps bringing you back?
DAFOE: Well, if it's good, you come back. When I saw "The Witch," I thought, "Wow, this is a film about a period that I'm not particularly knowledgeable about, but I enter it so easily. This is relevant. It's rooted. It's my story. I'm with these people."
That's quite an incredible trick because a lot of period films, they're always pointing to themselves. They're always sending messages. They're always showing. This had a kind of energy and the kind of physicality and sensuality that I thought, "Who does this? I gotta see this guy." And then I had a wonderful experience in "The Lighthouse" and I played a part that was really fun in "The Northman." So, when he wants to do this passion project and offers me this beautiful role of Professor Von Franz, I say,... Read More