THE BRIEF

The third annual Saatchi & Saatchi/Playback First Cut Award continues the tradition of acknowledging new directors and recognizing the efforts of production houses and agencies in providing opportunities for emerging talent. This year, an expanded list of judges chose the reels they felt demonstrated maximum potential and selected their top five choices. The overall winner receives a trip to next year’s Cannes International Advertising festival.

THE CRITERIA

Entry was restricted to Canadians with less than two years of spot directing to their credit, who were represented by a production house, and who had on their reels at least one spot which made it to the tv broadcast level. Judges made decisions based on storytelling/communication of idea, style, performance, indication of potential, and overall impression of the reel.

1. Eddy Chu, Radke Films

The judges say:

‘Good, sound, solid commercial reel’ – Steve Chase

‘Great range in all categories’ – Richard Unruh

Favorite spot on the reel:

Cantel/AT&T Phone Bomb

‘Plays like a mini-film – excellent visual storytelling, performance, use of music and sound effects’ – Karen Murray

2. Phil Brown, The Artists Film Company/API Aviator Pictures

The judges say:

‘A filmmaker, versatile and original’ – Richard Unruh

‘Consistent’ – Steve Chase

Favorite spot on the reel:

Fong’s Fresh Poultry Dead Chicken

‘Very well shot, interesting execution, great casting, funny’ – Ted Rosnick

3. Adam Massey

The Partners’ Film Company

The judges say:

‘This director has huge potential. His eye for casting is that of a truly seasoned pro’ – Bruce McKay

Favorite spot on the reel:

Molson Export Hockey

‘Great production design, attention to detail, well executed’ – Doug Lowe

‘Well photographed, good pay-off’ – Richard Unruh

4. Stephen Scott

Rave Films

The judges say:

‘Would like to see some more’ – Candace Bowes

Favorite spot on the reel:

Eaton’s Beauty Pageant

‘It counters stereotypical department store ads. Message is well communicated’ – Karen Murray

5. Geoff Ayres

Revolver Films

The judges say:

‘Well shot, good editing. Can bring to life an idea’ – Richard Nadeau

‘Good mix of comedy and drama. Lots of style’ – Candace Bowes

Favorite spot on the reel:

ReMax Street Speed Skaters

‘Good storytelling’ – Steve Danyluk