The awards, which recognise performance in CSR and sustainability in business, have shortlisted a mini-series of four web-films made for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service that help keep young drivers safe.
RedBalloon Productions is the professional production arm of the Faculty of Media and Communication at Bournemouth University and has have been producing corporate and broadcast media since 2000.
The short videos, which have already gained more than 13,000 views on YouTube, were commissioned by Hampshire Fire and Rescue and highlight ‘The Fatal Four’: speed, distraction, seatbelts, and alcohol and drug use, which are the most common causes of road collisions.
The films were directed By Ian. D Fleming, famed for his direction of popular Channel 4 soap opera, Hollyoaks as well as his work on Disney’s Evermoor Chronicles. The crew for the project was a mixture of Faculty of Media and Communication MA graduates and students including Clemens Majunke, Bren Sendon, Vitor Vilela and BA (Hons) TV and Media Production Students. The films also featured a range of young drama students from Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), Guildford School of Acting (GSA) and Dramatic Productions Casting Agency.
RedBalloon Productions Executive Producer Stephanie Farmer, said: “Following a series of harrowing fatalities involving young drivers, RedBalloon Productions were approached by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service to make a series of films that would raise awareness of ‘The Fatal Four'.
“Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service particularly wanted a series of films that didn't involve blood and gore, which has been shown not to be effective. RedBalloon developed our ideas based around the use of the selfie and social media in order to give the films an authenticity a young audience of 15-25 year olds could relate to.”
She added: “We deliberately didn't feature authority figures such as parents or police but instead have tried to help young people think about the consequences of their actions on their friendship groups - how would you feel if you killed your best friend? We also tried to make it a positive call to action - How can you help keep your friends safe? They can do this by spreading the message and sharing the films through social media.”
MA Cinematography student Brendan Senden said: “I worked as a grip on the young driver videos. It was a great way to apply what I was learning at uni in a professional context and on an interesting project. Meeting and collaborating with people from the industry was a very positive experience for me.
“I also had the opportunity to work as a cameraman on a variety of other projects for RedBalloon. It was a great way to develop my skills. My experience with RedBalloon boosted my CV and helped me to get started as a professional while studying cinematography.”
Award winners will be named at the event, which is to be held in Covent Garden on 7th October. To view the films that have been shortlisted, visit: http://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/keeping-safe/road-safety/friendsdrivesafe/
