Back in 2015, I had the pleasure of working with Oyster Magazine to Direct the 'We Are The Makers' series for the iconic Strand Arcade; an iconic mainstay of Sydney retail that champions Australian craft and design.
Among the many brands that I worked with, Artisan Shoemaker Andrew McDonald made a lasting impression, with his incredible product producing a tactile and visceral quality that I found incredibly inspiring.
"Odyssey" delves into the mind and creativity of Andrew to showcase an interwoven tapestry of stories. Each story represents a narrative that will only see its subject reach their destiny with the help of McDonald's craft and product. He is inspired by them, and his work completes them.
A stellar cast, including Astrid Holler (who has worked with the likes of Burberry Prorsum, Marni, Dries Van Noten, Lanvin, and famously opened for Alexander Wang at NYFW) each provide scenes with different values that each represent Andrew's core brand values.
Produced by In The Thicket, and with Creative skills of Sean Gaji, and the amazing work of DOP Andrew Buckley, I am excited to share this body of work that makes a foray into Fashion Film with a TVC/Short Film approach and sensibility.
Director: Lester Jones
Made in conjunction with/for Andrew McDonald.
Produced with In The Thicket Productions.
Written By: Lester Jones and Sean Gaji
Edited By: Lester Jones/Charlie Wheeler
DOP/Colourist: Andrew Buckley
The Icon: Astrid Holler
Wearing: Dress by Marc LeBihan, and necklace by Aleksandr Manamis, courtesy of Utopia Store, Sydney
The Dancer: Paul Walker
Wearing: Alxander Manamix, courtesy of Utopia Store, Sydney
The Lovers: Sarah Carter and Nikolai Carter
She wears: Shirt from Rollas, and Jeans from Neuw Denim
He wears: Shirt, jacket and Jeans from Neuw Denim
The Adventurer: Hareth Tayem
He wears: Neuw Denim and Rollas
Drone Photography: Cam Batten, Axis Aerial Works
Stylist: Nadene Duncan
Hair/Make Up: Rachel Sophie/Ali Robertson
Gaffer: Jay McNeill
Best Boy: Avi Michael
Grip: David Griffiths
1st AC: Dylan Jeffrey
Camera Assistant: Matt Floyd
Production Assistant: Zac Warnerford
Sound Design: Todd Falusi, Sound Reservoir
Narrator: Terry Serio
Location Sound Recording: Nathan Codner
Thanks to: Cinoptix, Sean Gaji, Andrew McDonald, Frank Hua at Utopia, IMG, Kurringai UTS, NSW National Parks, Sydney Prop Specialists.