IDENTITY’s Philip Andelman directed trailblazing athletes who defy convention, define independence and inspire confidence for New Balance. The inspirational spot encapsulates the brand’s new global communication platform, “Fearlessly Independent Since 1906,” and reflects its heritage, commitment to quality and non-conventional values as an independent global sports company. New Balance brand ambassadors star in the adrenaline-fueled spot, including shortstop Francisco Lindor, lacrosse star Paul Rabil, soccer MVP Rose Lavelle, German football player turned manager Jürgen Klopp, track and field world record setter Brenda Martinez and “east coast legend” professional skater PJ Ladd. Set to the dynamic beats of the electropop track “Turning Heads” by indie experimental group NVDES, the spot features each athlete declaring their independence, overcoming obstacles and defining success through their unparalleled personas.
Pioneering The Visual Narrative: Bobola Oniwura’s Impact on Nollywood’s Cinematic Evolution
Nollywood is in the middle of a visual revolution, and at its core is Bobola Oniwura, the mastermind behind some of the industry’s most striking cinematic transformations. Oniwura is a pioneering colorist whose unique approach to film aesthetics has set new standards for how Nigerian stories are told on screen. From the gritty realism of King of Boys: The Return of the King to the vibrant energy of A Tribe Called Judah, Oniwura’s work has become synonymous with a new era of cinematic excellence, one where color grading is no longer an afterthought but a defining narrative tool. The film industry in Nigeria known as Nollywood has grown into one of the most prolific cinematic powerhouses in the world. Producing thousands of films annually, it ranks alongside Hollywood and Bollywood in terms of output. Once characterized by rapid, low-budget productions, Nollywood has undergone a remarkable transformation, embracing higher production values, diverse storytelling, and international recognition. The industry’s films now command global audiences, made possible by platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, and receiving acclaim at major festivals. This evolution has been fueled by creatives like Oniwura, who are redefining the post-production technical standards of Nigerian films. His impact extends beyond the color suite. Drawing on his background in Architecture and user experience research, Oniwura approaches color grading with an acute understanding of audience perception, crafting visual experiences that enhance storytelling, evoke emotion, and immerse viewers in the rich textures of Nigerian culture. His ability to merge technical precision with artistic intuition has positioned him as one of the most sought-after colorists in Nollywood... Read More