Winner: Kristofer Richardson, copywriter, Spark 44 for the Muslim Assoications of Britain's "Foreigner"
Krow: I chose this ad because...
…The Muslim Association of Britain spot touches a nerve because it’s true.
It exposes the prejudices most of us are cursed with by challenging the pictures that a perfectly innocent story creates in our heads.
That makes it a skilful use of radio – after all, the ability to create pictures with words is what’s so attractive about the medium. The downbeat voice works well, too.
Intelligent wit: 1. Shouty vocals: 0. Well done to all involved.
How would you encourage creatives to ‘See radio differently’?
How long?
It doesn’t matter how many 30-second spots get booked, they are not more ‘efficient’ if they result in a breathless rush of indigestible information. Spread the word – 40s can be better value for money.
Would your characters really say that?
(Or is that your brief showing?) If it’s the latter, chances are you’re not going to win an Aerial award.
Under-write
When you perform your ad in the stationery cupboard, make sure it’s five seconds shy of the intended length… or get ready for some frantic compromising when you get in the studio.
Winning ad: Muslim Association of Britain "Foreigner"
VO: Picture this. You’re in a crowded shopping centre during the bustling holiday season. Frantic shoppers scurry in search of last-minute deals, when an obviously foreign-looking man enters. The first thing you notice is his long beard. Then his odd hat. His clothes make him stand out, but it’s the way he’s acting that draws your attention. You suddenly realise he’s carrying an unusual looking bag. He places it down, raises his hands, looks to the sky and shouts: "Ho! Ho! Ho!" [beat] Who did you think we were describing? We’re guessing it wasn’t Santa. At the Muslim Association of Britain Charitable Trust, we educate and present the positive image of Muslims in the UK through our humanitarian work, and to help create harmony amongst different faiths. Learn more at mabct.org.
Credits
Creative agency Spark44
Copywriter Kristofer Richardson
Creative director Sean Doyle
CCO Brian Fraser
Producer Alex Rofaila
Facility house LEAP
Sound engineer Liam Hawe
Could you do better? Enter your work at
The Aerials are awarded monthly by Radiocentre to the creative team behind the best work entered at aerials.co.uk and chosen by an invited creative-director judge.
