Inspired by Bill Nye the Science Guy and the excellent CrashCourse educational videos, we pitched an Ask the Experts-type series to speak plainly to viewers. After exploring several options, we landed on a trusted, real-life astronaut to serve as the face of this campaign. Dan Tani was more than willing to speak on behalf of a metal that he's always trusted (in space!).
Drive Aluminum
This strong but light-hearted video series for the Aluminum Association and its Aluminum Transportation Group (ATG) bolsters the Drive Aluminum campaign -- an initiative dedicated to debunking myths and informing policy-makers about using aluminum in cars.
Who's Your Spokesperson?
Not Your Grandfather's Aluminum
Justin scripted a series of four videos that emphasizes aluminum's strength, safety, fuel efficiency and [lack of] carbon emissions. While the science was on our side, we didn't underestimate the "debunking" job ahead of us; combating the notion that aluminum is only good for wrapping sandwiches and making hats [for crazy people].
Dressed for Success
Favata directed Dan during an ambitious day-long shoot, LAI Video broke set-dressing records to transform the Aluminum Association's Crystal City headquarters into a colorful, but timeless laboratory environment. We positioned the dry erase board as key interactive component -- something Dan and lab assistant Justin referenced throughout the shoot and playfully enhanced with composite animation by Rob. Alexandria pre-produced and produced the day-of shoot, while Ellyn oversaw the complex post-production.
A Campaign As Resilient As Aluminum Itself
The videos nicely embedded within a redesigned microsite, complete with custom graphics and GIFs that came from an additional photo shoot with a very cooperative Dan Tani. While steel remains king, the series looks to make a dent with inside-the-Beltway crowds and the auto-manufacturing market.
Meet the Team
Rob Kramer
As our Associate Creative Director, Rob Kramer leads the animation team and directs a range of client projects. With his suite of production and design skills, he creates one-of-a-kind styles that seamlessly mesh with your narrative.
James Favata
As the Vice President of Creative at LAI Video, James offers his docu-style and motion graphics expertise to transform brands and campaigns. He’s won numerous accolades, including two Emmy® Awards as a Director, for his incredible storytelling and vision.
Justin Kelly
As LAI Video’s Senior Writer and Editor, Justin moves people to action with his impeccable command of language and narrative. With a decade of experience in technical writing, editing, and project management, Justin balances detail and emotion to create award-winning videos.
Jun Young Yang
Jun is the Director of Photography for LAI Video. His sharp eye and even sharper focus have earned him a reputation as an industry-leading cinematographer. He started his career freelancing before becoming a staple on the LAI Video team.
James Loizou
James Loizou leads the team at LAI Video, building the Emmy® Award-Winning agency from scratch over the last 15 years. His innate balance of creativity and methodology guides our team forever forward towards innovation.
Susy Shaw
Susy is a Senior Vice President of Sales and Business Development for LAI Video, leading our efforts to find new and empowering relationships with clients. With over 15 years of marketing, events, and multimedia sales experience in the DC area, Susy follows one definition of success: to be seen as an extension of her clients’ organization.
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