Australian agency Bear Meets Eagle On Fire and production company Revolver have won a film craft Grand Prix at Cannes Lions for Telstra - Better on a Better Network.
The work created 26 stop-motion films, each representing lesser-known regional towns and remote areas that benefit from a better network.
“Before we could vote, the Grand Prix revealed itself slowly – like great work often does,” said president of the jury, Ali Ali, co-founder and film director, Good People Films.
“In a year dominated by AI and digital gloss, Telstra’s ‘Better on a Better Network’ felt like a breath of fresh air.
“Tactile, intimate, and deeply human. It reminded us why we fell in love with this industry.
“Fifty-six unique puppets animating 42 voices from regional Australians, across 26 stop-motion gems.
“All simple, all funny, all full of soul. Measured writing, inspired characters – and yes, a bird flying backwards. In a fast-content era, ‘Better on a Better Network’ felt like a warm, slow-cooked meal.”
Telstra CMO Brent Smart woke to the news this morning.
"And I'm genuinely speechless," he said. "So I'll leave it there.
"With a thank you to everyone who worked on this, but especially to Micah Walker, without his vision and care we wouldn't be here."
Australia secured its first Grand Prix in this Lion.
Revolver managing director and co-owner Michael Ritchie said that for a production company, winning a gold Film Craft lion is just wonderful.
"Seeing the work of Steve Rogers take four gold lions and Jeff Low take the Grand Prix, and be shown on the big screen in the Palais is a pinch yourself moment," Ritchie said.
"But just as importantly, I could not be more proud of every director in our company and every person in the office for all contributing to the greater vision and momentum.
"I also want to thank our incredible agency partners and the courageous clients that we have the good fortune to work with."
Production was by Revolver / Biscuit Filmworks.
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