Topgolf rolled out its latest iteration of the “Come Play” campaign this month via Anomaly, in partnership with RSA Films and directing duo Peter Martin, who put their observational comedy stamp on the new work.
The two spots including this :30 titled “Free:30” introduce Topgolf’s Chaz Mulligan and Birdie Baker, a couple of golf announcer puppets created in partnership with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. Mulligan and Baker have personality to spare along with quirky senses of humor.
In the campaign Mulligan and Baker highlight the perks of Topgolf. In “Free:30,” the perk is a free extra 30 minutes of game play available to players weekdays from 9am-5pm when they book a reservation. The spot takes a turn when Baker misunderstands Mulligan and winds up enjoying a Topgolf cheeseburger at the news desk.
CreditsClient Topgolf Agency Anomaly Mike Byrne, global chief creative officer; Craig Schlesinger, creative director; Adam Dubrueler, art director; Tony Krol, copywriter; Kimberly Edwards, executive producer; Andreina Byrne, sr. producer. Production Company RSA Films Peter Martin, director; Luke Ricci, president/exec producer; Jenni Sprunger, exec producer; Sarah Morrison, head of production; Lawrence T. Lewis, producer; Sean Porter, DP; Noel McCarthy, production designer; Ellie Stern, Sasha Perez, food stylists. Editorial Mackcut Erik Laroi, editor; Ariella De Los Santos, assistant editor; Gina Pagano, exec producer; Katya Meyer, producer. VFX Inti Martinez, VFX. Puppet Creation Jim Henson’s Creature Shop
The Best Work You May Never See: Ad Council, U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, GSD&M, Director Andre Muir Show Us “The Bravest Thing”
As Suicide Prevention Month begins, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Ad Council teamed with agency GSD&M to roll out PSAs for their national campaign: “Don’t Wait. Reach Out.” The initiative, which started in 2021, urges Veterans who are facing challenges to visit VA.gov/REACH, a comprehensive website that helps them access the many resources available.
The PSAs, including this one titled “The Bravest Thing,” were directed by Andre Muir of production house SMUGGLER. “The Bravest Thing” acknowledges that it can be hard for Veterans to reach out if they’re struggling--but in the eyes of their loved ones, seeking help is an act of bravery. By featuring Veterans alongside their friends and family, the film encourages Veterans to open up if they’re struggling and reminds everyone that they can play a role in supporting Veterans in their lives.
“When a Veteran is ready to reach out, VA is ready to provide services and support. One of the bravest things Veterans can do is ask for help,” said Dr. Matthew Miller, executive director, VA Office of Suicide Prevention. “These new messages are powerful and compassionate additions to the ‘Don’t Wait. Reach Out.’ campaign that features the voices of loved ones, underscoring the vital role that family and friends play in supporting Veterans. We all play a role in suicide prevention and this call to action engages community and connections, which are crucial in preventing Veteran suicide. Through this campaign, we can spread hope that Veterans, and all of us, can overcome crises and difficult life challenges.”
6,392 Veterans lost their lives to suicide in 2021, according to the latest data from the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report.... Read More