BEST IN CRAFT (DIRECTION & EDITING CRAFT)
KFC ‘Cake’
Director: Bruno Bossi at Carbon Films
Editor: Julian Redpath

*Entered by Carbon Films on behalf of Julian Redpath

Awarded by Shane Forbes and Justice Mukheli

Judge’s comment: ‘From the opening scene until the end logo, I was grinning from ear to ear. How refreshing to see a commercial this irreverent and playful, in this day and age. I can only admire and appreciate every choice made by Bruno Bossi to make this piece so memorable and fun. The cast and performances are great (and even more impressive considering the challenges of directing talent in a foreign language). The combination of in camera practical effects and VFX work together seamlessly as does the sound design and score which elevates both the tension and humour of this piece. A shout-out to the editor Julian Redpath for the pace and timing of each cut that makes this two and a half minute commercial not feel long and laborious to watch, but rather leaves you wanting more.
I’m sure there will be much talk and discussion this year about an international commercial being done by a South African agency, but hopefully this can be an inspiration to some of our local clients and a reminder to ourselves, that when you let South African creatives play. Magic can happen. Silly magic. But magic.’ – Shane Forbes, Executive Creative Director at TBWA Hunt Lascaris 

Judge’s comment: ‘Cake by Bruno Bossi is hands down my favourite. It’s such a simple idea, but it’s done so beautifully. Everything about it feels effortless and clear, and that’s what makes it so strong for me. Even with all the VFX, it doesn’t feel over-the-top or tricksy. It’s done so well that it just fits and nothing feels out of place or like it’s trying too hard. The world Bruno and his team created is amazing. The characters feel so real, even though their world is heightened. Watching it, I felt like I was right there with them, caught up in everything that was happening. It’s stylised, but in such a subtle way. It never feels like it’s trying too hard, and that’s what makes me love it. This is the kind of work that makes me wish “I did that.”’ – Justice Mukheli, Director at Romance Films

CRAFT MENTION (EDITING CRAFT)
MTN ‘Summer’
Post Modern | William Kalmer

Awarded by Shane Forbes

Judge’s comment: ‘Special Craft Mention to William Kalmer at Post Moden for this one. Using stock is never easy or that fun but the way he has combined stock, shot footage and animation makes for a nice piece of craft. Re-watching I noticed more and more craft detail that I might have missed on the first watch. Solid.
*Please note: While I work at the agency that made this spot, I had no input or participation in this project whatsoever.’

CRAFT MENTION (DIRECTION)
Toyota ‘It’s not just a Bakkie’
Patriot Films | Anton Visser

Awarded by Justice Mukheli

Judge’s comment: ‘I absolutely love the story and how it’s told. It’s simple, heartfelt, and so beautifully crafted. Watching the grandfather’s journey to make the little Hilux is such a joy, it’s a small, personal mission, but it carries so much meaning. The way the story unfolds is seamless, and every moment feels intentional. Anton tells this story with so much care and attention to detail that it leaves a lasting impression. Simple, genuine storytelling like this always stands out to me.’

CRAFT MENTION (DIRECTION & CINEMATOGRAPHY CRAFT)
(Short Film) ‘Threads of Love’
Director: Raphadu Maphoto at Eyeforce
Cinematographer: Ramon Mellett

*Entered by Eyeforce on behalf of Ramon Mellett

Awarded by Justice Mukheli

Judge’s comment: ‘Threads of Love by Raphadu Maphoto is such a vibrant and layered piece of storytelling. I loved how it captured a part of the energy and spirit of today’s youth, it feels real. The characters are lovely, and their journey pulled me in completely, I was invested.’