Special Tells the Tale of 'The Young Man Who Lived in His Boots'

R.M.Williams launches a new brand platform, ‘Crafted for Life’, via Special - its first multimedia national campaign since the brand came back into Australian ownership. The work is a homage to the company’s world famous boots that are handcrafted to stand the test of time in the outback. 

Produced by Special and Revolver, the campaign leads with a cinematic film, shot in the brand’s birthplace of the Flinders Ranges in South Australia, telling the story of a rich and adventurous life lived by a man in his R.M.Williams boots. 

To demonstrate the durability that is crafted into every R.M.Williams product, the film tells the story of a pair of Craftsman boots from current day all the way back to 1966, when they were first launched. It’s accompanied by a voiceover of an Australian interpretation of ‘The Old Woman Who Lived In A Shoe’ - the story of ‘A Young Man Who Lives In His Boots’. Packed with moments that celebrate the Australian heartland, he’s depicted living a full life ‘of many pursuits’, with his faithful, versatile boots always on his feet. 

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker, Justin Kurzel, the film launches as a 90” and 60” for TV and cinema release as well as 30”, 10” and 6’ cutdowns across digital and social. It’s supported by OOH and print executions shot by Sydney based photographer Saskia Wilson, capturing the boots in varying stages of life, again highlighting their craftsmanship and durability. 

The new brand platform also comes to life with a refreshed brand identity, nodding to a new chapter for the brand, drawing inspiration from the Australian landscape and creating a visual connection with the stills. 

Says Chris Willingham, chief marketing officer R.M.Williams, “‘Crafted for life’ is founded on a truth that’s at the heart of the brand. This launch campaign beautifully captures the spirit of a brand born in the Australian heartland and reasserts the primary reason why our boots have never been in greater demand.” 

Says Lea Egan, creative director, Special: “I’ve always loved this brand. So it was a dream to get to add a new chapter to their story. RM’s are made with a level of craftsmanship not often found in today’s world. One pair truly can last a lifetime. This platform celebrates that rare and enduring dedication to timeless quality.” 

The campaign will roll out across Cinema, TV, OOH, OLV, Social and Owned