Savanna 'Mozzies' (Director's Cut)

IDIDTHAT Craft Awards September 2025 – View Showcase

Savanna ‘Mozzies’ (Director’s Cut)

BEST IN CRAFT (DIRECTION)
Darling Films | Zee Ntuli

Awarded by Thina Zibi

Judge’s comment: ‘This is a brilliant example of playful, culturally tuned-in storytelling. Firstly, I loved the clever placement of the Savanna logo in the real outdoors! A small detail but big statement. I enjoyed that this world of Savannah was kept realistic and not overly curated, a breath of fresh air from how we know the brand, while still maintaining its humorous and playful voice. The performances, human and creature alike, are instantly memorable, culminating perfectly in that final, comedic slap of the female character. VFX and live action blend seamlessly. Mosquitoes and chameleons feel like natural extensions of the environment, never gimmicky. The edit’s rhythm, with its wild repetition and mash-up of “We Outside”, builds comedic momentum that lands precisely and never overstays its welcome. A spot that’s smart, funny, and exquisitely crafted.’ – Thina Zibi, Independent Director

ABOUT THE WORK
Savanna, South Africa’s favourite cider, is well known for its iconic glass bottle. But with the launch of the new 500ml can, the brand can boldly go where it hasn’t gone before – the great outdoors. The more convenient, portable format is perfect for going off the beaten track and the ad captures the exuberant joy and freedom of being outside. A feeling we believe is universal, no matter where one sits on the food chain.

The ad, affectionately titled ‘Mozzies’, opens with a campsite where a group of friends (who are clearly city slickers doing this camping thing for the first time) is gathered around the fire with Savanna Dry 500ml Cans in hand. Everyone’s chilling and having a good time, when the protagonist exclaims, ‘We Outside!’ A phrase that’s a cultural phenomenon that started on TikTok. In the ad, the phrase quickly catches on, amongst the friends who are enjoying their Savannas. But they’re not alone. Enter two mosquitos who are equally as excited to be ‘Outside’ with these humans. But they are not the only ones with their next snack in sight. Two chameleons join the rallying cry, proclaiming that they too are outside. The dizzying crescendo of mozzies, chameleons and humans culminates with a camper nonchalantly swotting away the mozzie with a slap to the neck, reaffirming her place at the top of the food chain.

CREDITS
Brand/Client: Savanna
Manager Category Ciders Fab: Maijaliina Hansen
Marketing Manager Savanna Cider: Mathew Walton
Assistant Brand Manager Savanna Cider: Eon Jacobs

Agency: TBWA 
Executive Creative Director: Steph Van Niekerk
Creative Director: Kevin Radebe
Creative Director: Nwabisa Tolom
Agency Producer: Tracey Holme
Group Account Director: Sizakele Masombuka

Film Production Company: Darling Films
Director: Zee Ntuli
Creative Researcher / Director Assistant: Sbu Nkosi
Executive Producer: Melina McDonald & Lorraine Smit
Producer: Mmameyi Mphahlele
Cinematographe / DOP: Deon Van Zyl
Production Manager: Zuko Nqoro
Production Art Director: Lauren Wilensky
Wardrobe Stylist: Neo Serati
Camera DIT / VTO: Mpendulo Mkhonza
Key Grip: Bafana Langa
Gaffer / Lighting: JP Du Preez
Hair & Makeup: Orli Meiri
Unit Manager: Douglas Machogo
Talent / Performer: Banele Zulu, Sihle Mabena, Siobhan King, Mathunzi Macdonald
Sound Operator: Tshepo Maboja