BRIEF

Massive Records asked us to create a music video for Spencer Coyle & Drax Project’s new song ‘Castaway’. A few ideas were floated until we landed on a mock film inspired by the 2000 Tom Hanks film ‘Castaway’. We picked some of the most iconic scenes from the film and challenged ourselves to incorporate them into a short form music video format.

CREW

In order to enhance the flexibility of our on-location shots at the beach, we implemented a lean crew for this shoot. In addition to our Director/DOP, 1st AC & assist, we also had a makeup artist and a behind-the-scenes shooter present on set. Our 1st AC, Sam, made it into the video as talent in the final scene.

EXECUTION

In order to achieve a cinematic look for the music video, we utilized our reliable Canon C70 camera outfitted with Sirui anamorphic lenses. For our exterior beach shoot, we opted for handheld camera operation and worked with natural lighting so the scenes felt candid and natural. Despite facing numerous setbacks due to adverse weather conditions, including a passing cyclone in Auckland, we were fortunate to secure ideal weather conditions on the day of the shoot. Additionally, to capture unique point-of-view shots, we equipped Spencer with a chest rig. Our team was challenged to shoot around the public once the beach became crowded with surfers, in order to convey an abandoned setting.

To bring 'Wilson' to life, we utilized both studio and location settings. Shaan from Drax Project performed in front of a green screen in the studio, his facial features were then superimposed onto the volleyball in post. The final product became a hilarious crossover between ‘Annoying Orange’ and ‘Wilson’ that worked surprisingly well.