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LUSU
We brought the intensity and spirit of the Roses Tournament to life through two electrifying teaser videos and a gripping aftermovie, weaving together archival footage, cinematic visuals, and powerful storytelling.
BRIEF
At the start of 2024, Lancaster University Students’ Union (LUSU) approached us to create promotional material for the latest Roses Tournament, hosted on their grounds. Our prior experience with Roses provided us with an understanding of the event’s rich history and its unfolding dynamics.
Held from 3rd to 5th May, the tournament showcased 142 sporting fixtures including tennis, hockey, climbing, lacrosse, and rugby, to name a few. Our primary objective was to generate a palpable sense of anticipation and create a student-centric campaign.
01 // PRE-PRODUCTION
• Concept Development & Refinement • Script Writing • Storyboard/Shot List • Logistics • Casting • Crew Hire • Scouting • Permits • Prep
Before the cameras rolled for the aftermovie, we focused on planning two teaser videos. These teasers combined archive footage from previous tournaments with specially orchestrated visuals to craft compelling narratives. The themes revolved around the tournament’s legacy, camaraderie, and the fierce rivalry between Lancaster and York, aiming to convey a “winner takes all” sentiment.
vey a “winner takes all” sentiment.Teaser VideoThe first promotional video utilised archive footage from our past collaborations with LUSU. We highlighted memorable moments from previous Roses tournaments, capturing the emotions and action that define the event.Tug of War PromoFor the ‘Tug of War’ promo, we aimed to build anticipation through slow-motion shots and close-ups, focusing on the athletes' expressions and group dynamics. Filming in a blackout studio, we showcased a diverse group of student-athletes preparing for the tournament, enhancing the narrative with dramatic lighting to evoke a personal and intense atmosphere.
• Directed • Produced • Shot on Red
AftermovieOur team was on-site from day one, capturing the event’s vibrancy using our state-of-the-art RED Scarlet-W camera. Shooting at 48fps allowed for breathtaking slow-motion footage, while our DJI Inspire II drone provided stunning aerial shots of the campus and event turnout.
Tug of War PromoDuring production, we maintained a dark and dramatic aesthetic to immerse viewers in the athletes’ pre-tournament emotions. Filming an actual Tug of War match, we used this to heighten tension within the narrative. Six students, selected by the university, were cast for this promo, embodying the institution’s spirit.The voiceover scripts mirrored the tone of an army preparing for battle, instilling a sense of determination and pride. A Lancaster native with a distinct accent was chosen for the voiceover, strengthening the connection to Roses’ history and the local community.
• Editing • Voiceover Casting & Recording • Sound Mix & Master • Visual FX • Colour Grade • Music Licensing • Subtitling • Amendments
In post-production, we wove together the narratives, incorporating the voiceover to enhance the emotional resonance. The promo videos were delivered first, enabling LUSU to share them across social media platforms in the lead-up to the event. We ensured all videos were available in both widescreen and square formats for versatile sharing.
“Reception has been brilliant and well received”, said Iain Thorley, Design & Communications Manager at Lancaster University Students’ Union.