“Who throws a $2000 phone in the air just to make a point?” says film director Harriett Maire.
As part of the international launch of the Find X8 Pro, the flagship smartphone from Oppo, Film Construction was tasked with doing just that. Director Harriett Maire, known for her creative casting, made an energetic film to demonstrate the smartphone’s durability and ease of use.
The concept was cheeky – the phone is literally tossed from scene to scene – a metaphor for the device’s ease of use and smooth integration with modern life.
The result is a cinematic treat that’s as much about contemporary life as about the technological features.
“We wanted to show that great technology doesn’t complicate life – it amplifies it,” says Oppo Marketing Manager Eduardo Sampaio.
“Everyone can take a great photo. Everyone can be creative. This is more than a phone; it’s a creative companion. And we wanted to speak to the New Zealand way of life.”
“When Oppo approached us,” says Belinda Bradley, Executive Producer. “they wanted a story that showed the effortless use of some very high-tech gear. The Hasselblad lens and the integrated AI on this phone impressed even the hardened photographers and filmmakers at Film Construction.”
Behind the scenes, the shoot was a testament to trust. “I held my breath every single time the phone left an actor’s hand—part terror, part exhilaration,” says Harriett. It went against the grain for the actors to throw the phone in the air – trusting that the props team would catch it. Each catch required multiple takes and a level of coordination.
“To be honest, there were a few spills, but the phone survived them all without a scratch.”
“Tim Flower’s cinematography captured the essence of our campaign with his exceptional eye for organic movement and shaping natural light,” adds Harriett, “Pete Ritchie’s colour grading and David Liversidge’s sound design brought nice depth and nuance to the final piece.”
The campaign speaks directly to urban, creative professionals aged 25-45 – individuals who see their smartphone as an extension of their creative toolkit. The phone’s specifications tell their own story: 50 megapixel lenses, Gorilla Glass protection, water and knock-proof resistance.
But Maire’s direction transforms these technical details into moments of fun, each catch a celebration of life.
The campaign was completed with photographer Matt Hurley capturing the key visuals, maximising Film Construction’s creative offerings.
Discussion about this post