Mode Project, a Chicago-based design and production studio, has produced a new short film that explores the region’s opportunities to create revenue and jobs by boosting local food production. The project, titled “Planning for A Sustainable Local Food System,” was developed for design studio Thirst and its client, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP). nnThe film illustrates the movement of food from farm to table, featuring interviews with local farmers, impassioned consumers and the restaurateurs who serve them. The colorful documentary-style footage is juxtaposed with 3D animated text transitions that enhance the rich visuals of the story.nnMode Project and Thirst, a Chicago design collaborative, developed the concept together, with Mode Project handling creative editorial and motion graphics sequences, while Thirst directed and designed the video.nnnView a 60-second trailer here for “Planning for A Sustainable Local Food System,” or view the full five-minute program here.nnThe fllm’s release comes at a time when local and sustainable food practices are garnering increasing interest across the country. The web content piece addresses a number of harsh realities: only 6% of the produce sold in Illinois is grown in state, and more than $26 billion in food revenue leaves the region each year.n n”According to recent surveys, 75% of Americans care whether their food is grown locally,” explains Jason Navota, CMAP principal planner. “By increasing local food production, metropolitan Chicago could create over 5,000 jobs and generate $6.5 billion a year in economic activity. We encourage people to voice support for local food production and together, we can make an impact.”nn”We’re proud to work side by side with Thirst to raise awareness for such an important cause”, said Mode Project Principal and Creative Director Colin Carter. “The beautiful opening and transition graphics they designed help bring the story to life and communicate CMAP’s vision.” nnMode Project also collaborated with Thirst founder and owner, Rick Valicenti, on “One Boy’s Story,” a PSA for the non-profit, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). The PSA won two Emmy awards from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, Chicago / Midwest Chapter.nnCreditsnConcept: Thirst + Mode ProjectnDirection + Design: ThirstnEditorial + Animation: Mode ProjectnCinematography: Dave Burk © Hedrich BlessingnnAbout Mode ProjectnMode Project creates distinctive content for the advertising, marketing and entertainment industries. The Mode team offers concept development and creative services for broadcast and digital media, including production, design, animation, editorial, and finishing. Recognition for Mode Project includes Cannes Lions Titanium and Integrated Grand Prix awards, New York Festivals World Medals, and Promax/BDA North American Design Awards. www.modeproject.comnnAbout ThirstnThirst is a firm devoted to art with function and serves a collection of clients whose refined and enlightened design sensibilities yield rewards in the experience of creation. Our passion for design and embrace of new technologies make for a dynamic union of imagery and inspiration. Thirst’s strategic and creative versatility continues to lead the discourse and pursue the elusive ideals of intelligence, fashion and real human presence within today’s world of communication. www.3st.com
Mia Wicklund Mode Project Contact Mia via email 312/951-5424
Who Needs Los Angeles? We Do.
One doesn't have to be a statistician to know that there are fewer commercials being shot in the U.S. today for the American market than ever before, and a dramatic decrease in L.A. in particular. In the last five years, as reported by FilmLA (the office tasked with issuing permits), L.A. commercial production has dipped 31 percent. But here’s the thing: This doesn’t mean that L.A. has lost its importance as the production center of the world. Production in L.A. is vital. It is the go-to. It’s where you can count on access to exemplary crews, a support infrastructure second to none, varied location and backlot options, a large population of on-screen talent and (fairly) predictable weather. The fact is, with overall decline and now the devastation of the fires, we’re on the brink of losing this mainstay resource. Without employment opportunities and now many without homes, talented and trained crew are bound to leave either the industry or the LA area for other opportunities, unless there are enough job opportunities to sustain a solid living. Now is the time when we ALL must support and bolster this community. Production is needed in L.A., now! Of course, advertising is a business, and marketers’ money should be spent as efficiently as possible, BUT we have to think beyond each production and know that if we lose the incredible resource of L.A. production as we know it, then marketers, agencies and the industry loses in the long run. Over the past several days, some agencies have issued directives to production companies that are unilaterally pushing upcoming production options out of L.A. The fact is L.A. is a large area, and many sections of the city and county are not directly impacted... Read More