Summary
Completing its trilogy of ads with BBH, we have collaborated on ‘Economy Drive’, the third and final spot in Audi’s latest TV campaign, this time directed by NE-O.
Shot on 35mm in black and white the commercial follows a light
bulb as it travels from Sydney city centre to the suburbs, the hero
light bulb representing an Audi to illustrate its new stop/start
technology.
A Spheron camera was used to take 360 degree Spheron maps of the
locations allowing us to recreate the geometry and lighting
conditions of the set in 3D with maximum precision. Tom Bussell led
a team of five 3D artists who modelled, textured, animated and
rendered seven different light bulbs whilst a team of shake and
flame artists, led by Mike Outlaw, also worked on over 30
shots. Mike composited all of the bulbs into the plates and
created the realistic glows around them to match reference stills
the directors had shot.
Finally, Colourist Adam Scott applied a master grade to the final
HD data picture. A lot of contrast was added along with a subtle
duo-tone that director NE-O had specifically cited as a colour
guide. Adam said: "This look gives the film an interesting
quality whilst keeping the clarity that you always expect from
Audi."
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