Ruben Latre of Hostage Films directed this short film which is part of Samsung's ongoing social responsibility efforts. The piece (a special trailer for which is linked to this story) introduces us to the Oromia Region of Ethiopia where there is no running water and no electricity.
Due to remoteness and travel restrictions, Latre was brought onboard as director, DP, and crew of one; shooting two cameras on location. It was a stark contrast to New York City, where the director is based. The village houses are made of straw; the floors, of dirt. The technology for metalwork and fabric resembles colonial American museums. Similarities were abundant as well; people are people everywhere.
The film tells the story of a young girl Aster and her village, whose lives are transformed by the gift of light.
Samsung's contribution to the region, in partnership with a local NGO, comes in the form of solar panels that, in turn, are used to charge lanterns; providing the only light source to the dark terrain, other than the sun.
Agency is Agenda, NY.
Latre was in SHOOT's 2011 New Directors Showcase.
Partizan Signs Director Henry Behel
Partizan has added director Henry Behel to its U.S. roster. An accomplished filmmaker, Behel has taken to the streets, the skies, and the back country time and again to capture high-octane films with a refined cinematic sensibility.
Behel--who was most recently repped in the U.S. by Stadium prior to joining Partizan--is best known for his work incorporating stunts, action sequences, and VFX, particularly for automotive and aviation brands such as Audi, BMW, Nissan, Ford, GMC, Jeep, and Jaguar. Easily translating his taste for bold scenes and impactful imagery, he has also directed spots for Apple, Pepsi, Reyka Vodka, Unimatic Watches, and Forty Creek Niagara Whiskey. The Director’s Library recently featured his festival-winning short film 26,000 Days about an airshow pilot poetically tumbling out of the sky with his engine off.
Behel began his career directing films for air shows that played like action-movie trailers. Brands quickly followed, enlisting him to helm commercial campaigns where he channels his deep understanding of speed, scale, and kinetics into precisely choreographed camera work that elevates every on-screen stunt.
Behel said of signing with Partizan, “It’s amazing to be joining such a wonderful, established, and trusted brand. The legacy of some of the directors on their roster is unmatched. They represent some of the most talked-about names in commercials and beyond. The entire team has been incredibly welcoming, and I can’t wait to work alongside such an amazing group.”
“Every filmmaker has to evaluate risks and execute their vision. Few have done it like Henry: in midair,” remarked Mike Lobikis, head of sales at Partizan. “The work he’s done so far is incredible, and we look forward to... Read More