Director Martin Rodahl, inspired by the moving story of Special Olympics Illinois athlete Susie Doyens, brought an idea for a public service announcement to life at the Bartlett Hills Golf Club in Bartlett, Illinois. Born with Down syndrome, Susie remained practically mute for most of her childhood due to social pressure and anxiety. In “Speechless,” Susie literally shatters those fears and attributes her transformation to the confidence gained through Special Olympics.nnHaving maintained a professional relationship with Special Olympics Illinois for several years, Rodahl immediately accepted the opportunity to direct, produce and edit the PSA: “It’s an honor to work with Special Olympics and the individuals that this wonderful organization touches, whether it’s an athlete, volunteer or staff member. I have a sister with special needs so the subject is very close to home.”nn
nnAccording to Barbara DiGuido, director of communications for Special Olympics Illinois, “In a short PSA, Martin was able to capture the essence of Susie’s powerful story in a dramatic and compelling way that leaves a lasting impression about the power of Special Olympics to change lives.”nnTom, Dick & Harry Creative of Chicago, Illinois, provided support for the concept, spearheaded by creative director Amy Markley and art director Taylor LeCroy. The PSA relied heavily on its post-production team, including visual effects by Chris Ryan of Chaos Studios, color by Tyler Roth of Optimus, sound design and mix by Cory Coken of NoiseFloor and music composition by Shawn Sutta of Audiocastle.nnSaid Rodahl, “I am so grateful to everyone who dedicated their time and effort to this project. This was one of those rare moments in advertising where everyone recognized the value of the product and its importance to our community as a whole.”nn”Speechless” is posted on theBarbara DiGuido Special Olympics Illinois (630) 942-5610 Contact Barbara via email
Contact:Martin Rodahl 71 Degrees North (402) 880-9492 Contact Martin via email
Union’s Tim Thornton-Allan Edits Santa’s ‘Naughty List’ for Toyota
We may not get a second chance to make a first impression, but when the opportunity presents itself to right our wrongs in time for Christmas, we should seize the moment. In a new holiday spot for Toyota, a little boy realizes he is probably on Santa’s “Naughty List” and resolves to do something about it. The spot was created via Conill Advertising, produced by MJZ, directed by Fredrik Bond, and edited by Tim Thornton-Allan of Union Editorial/Los Angeles and Marshall Street Editors/London. Watching a program on his iPad in the back seat of his dad’s Toyota Tundra, our young protagonist receives a warning: “If you’ve been naughty, Santa won’t bring you any presents.” The lad wastes no time: “Papa! Turn back!” he commands. Father and son proceed to make the rounds, stopping at school, the neighbors, and elsewhere around the neighborhood, to set things right and deliver apologies. The boy even goes so far as to make amends with his little sister - returning the head of a favorite doll. The child’s restitution has the desired effect, and on Christmas morning, he receives exactly the gift he’d asked for. Judging by what he does next, he may have his work cut out for him next year, but we can all just take things one “Naughty List” at a time. Read More