HOLLYWOOD - Rhythm + Hues (www.rhythm.com) recently provided visual effects featured in a new spot for The Hartford Financial Services Group. "Trophies" marks the return of the company's iconic stag, which has not been used in television commercials since the 1970s.
The company brought back its mascot to reinforce its values to a new generation of customers, and to showcase its mutual funds and other financial products.
The first of two television spots from Campbell Mithun in Minneapolis debuted during NCAA Men's Basketball coverage, and pairs the life-like, yet computer-generated stag with narration from legendary college hoops coach John Wooden. At 94, Wooden's message of trust, talent and teamwork is as relevant today as when he led the UCLA Bruins to the longest winning streak in NCAA men's basketball history.
In the first spot, the stag makes his way though a trophy-lined corridor onto the basketball court where Wooden coached teams to an unmatched record of 10 championships. Throughout the spot, Wooden is overheard offering comments on winning with integrity.
In the second commercial, the stag promotes The Hartford?s products by emerging on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. In the midst of the daily drama of buying and selling, traders immediately pause at the sight.
Believe Media shot the live action for the :30 "Trophies" spot with Zack Snyder directing. Karen Knowles at KKE Editorial cut the piece.
The Rhythm + Hues Commercials team included animation director Craig Talmy, producer Caroline Heyward and executive producer Amy Hassler. Jason Bayever supervised lighting and Steve Ziolkowski served as lead animator. Yukiko Ishiwata handled Discreet Flame work and compositing.