Zee’s comment: “With BIC, ‘Chef’, it would have been very easy to chase something like The Bear. Go frenetic. Long lenses. Constant pressure. That language is right there for the taking. Instead, Josh and the team pulled back and employed restraint.

The piece feels cared for. You can feel the hands on it. It’s naturalistic. Tactile.”

Saf’s comment: ‘This piece of film translates the artist’s music visually and beautifully. It could easily have been just another doccie-style endorsement, but instead, every frame mirrors the syncopated rhythm and experimental pulse of 3 Step Afro House. The texture, color grading, and lensing choices build a world perfectly suited to Thakzin’s story.

Nothing feels manufactured. It’s not trying to prove it’s African, or cool, or cinematic, it just is. That kind of quiet confidence is rare, especially in branded work.’

Melusi’s comment: ‘The visual effects elevate an otherwise straight story, giving it a sense of magic and joy. The effects are expertly-done and captivating.’

Brendan’s comment: ‘Katlego brought this story to life really well with great performances, comedic timing, clever titles and some interesting camera transitions. That ice skater gets me every time.’

Grant’s comment: ‘I love this campaign and I especially love how the supporting work around it was no afterthought. With limited resources (I think it’s maybe 3 locations and one lead in total) I can feel the director working here. Performance nuances are very funny and love the subtle digs at the other brands. It’s tongue in cheek and I feel this campaign will shake this category up.’

Jabulani’s comment: ‘A superbly directed mini-documentary that allows two of Pretoria’s hottest DJs, Mellow and Sleazy, to tell their tale of how they got together and created their Pitori-influenced Amapiano sound. Their story is enhanced by them telling it in their mother tongues and bringing in locations from their respective hoods, and people who have been along for their journey or know them. All of the above combine to create a compelling narrative that is gritty, authentic and can’t be anything but Mzansi. The director knew what they wanted and made sure they got it.’

Mzi’s comment: ‘Katlego does a good job with this piece, using the medium cleverly to deliver a fun energetic piece with a sprinkle of humour. It’s visually compelling and does a good job of communicating the offering of the product/service.’

Judge’s comment: “AK from Spitfire Films: The music choice on Isuzu, Made from Real is very early 2000’s but in a good way.  It really lifts what is a largely functional story and script..”