How a Cinematic HP Ad Let Director Bernd Faass Play Out His Dreams
Director Bernd Faass’ new film for HP dreams big. Really big.
Taking the relatable, ordinary-seeming protagonist Markus into a second instalment of the technology brand’s Work Better campaign from AKQA Berlin and Anorak, ‘Work Anywhere’ is a big-screen-style celebration of the freedom of remote working - when you have the right tools.
It’s a cinematic, joyful piece of filmmaking that Bernd developed alongside AKQA, working closely from the earliest stages of the project through to delivery.
The film was shot in Slovenia across a wide range of locations, with cinematography by Jens Spöri.
Bernd shared some behind-the-scenes shots and reflections on the project with LBB’s Alex Reeves.
It’s a very personal film for Bernd
For me, the most important thing was: this film has to show a weird bucket list of places and situations a guy can work in. I personally would love to work on a boat for example… but thanks to remote working, I work in the middle of southern Germany / ‘nowhere' most of the time. Today I made a conference call in the middle of the forest. I guess the film has something to do with my personal work-life… maybe it is subconsciously my own personal work-life-bucket-list?… especially the hairdresser scene.
Bernd’s approach stuck to his strengths
My credo is always: never try to be funny! ‘Cause that's what Germans do best, right? They are not funny. So, by design, my creative process always feels very effortless for me…
Collaboration between agency and director was especially tight
Thanks to our collaboration last year, the agency (AKQA) approached me very early on, which is just a dream scenario. I love writing and thinking and developing ideas. This close collaboration with the agency continued throughout the whole project.
Slovenia was the perfect shooting destination
The shoot itself was a mammoth logistical task. I would never have thought that you could shoot the Mediterranean Sea and a two and a half thousand meter peak on the same day… Slovenia was a dream! Not only the beautiful countryside and locations but also the people and teams were great! So: thank you Slovenia!
Family came first on this project
I became a father for the second time during the project. I can't thank people enough for the consideration given to this from all sides. After the first creative phase of the project, I was able to take care of my family for almost two months before we got back to pre-prod. Many thanks for that HP, AKQA and last but not least Tobias from ANORAK!
These kinds of stunts require a specific set of skills
If you are looking for actors who are able to ride a motorbike, ride a boat, ride a horse, ride basically everything… you either have the money for Tom Cruise or you should consider this guy I know from Austria…
