Superconductor, the creative agency founded by the Russo Brothers and Justin Lin, created and produced this brand anthem for The Nature Conservancy. Documentary filmmaker and long-time Nature Conservancy supporter Peyton Wilson directed the “Nature Is Our Solution” piece.
Filmed across California, the film interweaves extraordinary images of natural beauty, scientists in the field, and children at play, with shockingly familiar clips of scorched earth and littered waterways. Actor Ewan McGregor lends his unique voice to describe nature, not as a destination but as a connection between all of us. The timing is fitting, as the eyes of the world have been on COP26 looking for solutions to our climate crisis.
The anthem reminds us that we cannot exist separate from nature, and that nature is the solution to humanity’s biggest problems. The goal of the piece is to showcase the role nature plays in addressing climate threats and The Nature Conservancy’s science in action to address conservation challenges, and to inspire broader investment in nature-based climate solutions.
“The Nature Conservancy is my heart, and I am honored to help communicate the importance of the organization’s scientists and conservationists—not to just protect beautiful spaces but for the health of all of us,” said director Wilson. “As we filmed, California’s wildfires raged, there were parts of the Sierras we couldn’t reach due to fires, other areas where we simply couldn’t breathe the air–and it was a stark reminder of why The Nature Conservancy exists, and how vital it is that we see ourselves and nature as one. Ewan’s voice of conviction affirms it perfectly.”
CreditsClient The Nature Conservancy Daniel Johnson, director of marketing & communications. Agency Superconductor Chris Adams, chief creative officer; Allison Amon, head of production/head of account services; Maeliosa Tiernan, producer. Production Superconductor Peyton Wilson, director; Tami Reiker, DP. Editorial Cosmo Street, Marlo Caine, editor.
The Best Work You May Never See: Ad Council, U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, GSD&M, Director Andre Muir Show Us “The Bravest Thing”
As Suicide Prevention Month begins, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Ad Council teamed with agency GSD&M to roll out PSAs for their national campaign: “Don’t Wait. Reach Out.” The initiative, which started in 2021, urges Veterans who are facing challenges to visit VA.gov/REACH, a comprehensive website that helps them access the many resources available.
The PSAs, including this one titled “The Bravest Thing,” were directed by Andre Muir of production house SMUGGLER. “The Bravest Thing” acknowledges that it can be hard for Veterans to reach out if they’re struggling--but in the eyes of their loved ones, seeking help is an act of bravery. By featuring Veterans alongside their friends and family, the film encourages Veterans to open up if they’re struggling and reminds everyone that they can play a role in supporting Veterans in their lives.
“When a Veteran is ready to reach out, VA is ready to provide services and support. One of the bravest things Veterans can do is ask for help,” said Dr. Matthew Miller, executive director, VA Office of Suicide Prevention. “These new messages are powerful and compassionate additions to the ‘Don’t Wait. Reach Out.’ campaign that features the voices of loved ones, underscoring the vital role that family and friends play in supporting Veterans. We all play a role in suicide prevention and this call to action engages community and connections, which are crucial in preventing Veteran suicide. Through this campaign, we can spread hope that Veterans, and all of us, can overcome crises and difficult life challenges.”
6,392 Veterans lost their lives to suicide in 2021, according to the latest data from the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report.... Read More