Bristol, UK-based Aardman Animations recently collaborated with the Bristol Ageing Better (BEB) partnership to produce a short film illustrating the elderly’s experiences of social isolation in the city and what they can do to be less lonely. Directed by Rich Webber, the animation–which features animals with human voices, lending humor to a serious social issue—-premiered at the 2015 Celebrating Age Festival which runs through Oct. 12.
The short aims to not only raise awareness of the effects of social isolation but also to promote positive activities and to get people involved.
Credits
Client Bristol Ageing Better Animation Aardman Animations, Bristol, UK Rich Webber, director; Stephanie Owen, producer; Caroline Hague, production coordinator; Andy James, storyboard artist; Jane Davies, Flash build, rig & animation; Joe Wood Flash animation; Jim Grant, animation production artist; Jon Biggins, post artist/final grade; Paule Quinton, post artist; George Sander-Jackson, After Effects compositor; Dan Hembery, editor. (Toolbox: Flash, After Effects, Nuke) Final Mix Evolutions Will Norrie, mixer. Voiceover Performers Sindhumati George, Yvonne Long, Joan Owens, Albert Stewart, Alfred Peter Muscat, Mike Prescott, Jackie Prescott, Karen Knorton.
The Ad Council, partnering with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF) and AdoptUSKids, launched a public service campaign, created pro bono by Edelman, which aims to inspire prospective parents to consider adopting a teen from foster care.
This centerpiece PSA titled “The Rewards”--directed by The Hudson Dusters (Michael Kuhn and Niles Roth) via Greenpoint Pictures--spotlights real adoptive families who have personally experienced the mutual benefits of adoption. This longer form PSA (and cutdown versions) begins with a touching display of openness and vulnerability as adoptive parents reflect on their adoption journeys and their initial questions and hesitations about adopting a teen. Then, in a deeply emotional turn, the adoptive parents witness their children recounting the profound rewards of adoption in their lives. The teens speak of the love they share with their parents and how the decision to become a family is reciprocal. The campaign directs viewers to the AdoptUSKids website to learn more about adopting a teen from foster care.
