World renowned oil painter Andres Englund created the original work, reimagined with PlayStation's fan voted 'greatest player' in the place of George Washington, surrounded by various players in the games as replacements for the revolutionary soldiers.
The question for the Mill+ team remained: How to bring the magnificent oil painting to life?
Creative director Rama Allen worked closely with 2D and 3D leads Nick Tanner and Christian Nielsen to explore the technique of painting with oils. From there, the theory of what creates the natural look of a handcrafted masterpiece was delved into in detail. Different levels of varnish, texture and lighting were explored, especially how the layer upon layer of oil paint would interact when animated.
The spot begins as a closeup character study, and steadily pulls out to reveal a group sailing into the uncertainty of a game. The sound design amplified this feeling. Rama worked with Henryboy on an anachronistic design, as laser beams are heard in the same space as sword fighting.
Now every PlayStation gamer has the chance to be part of their own epic 'Gamers Masterpiece,' by visiting the website. Who will you be?
Agency: BBH New York
CCO: John Patroulis
Executive Creative Director: Ari Weiss
Creatives: Evan Benedetto, Daniel Burke, Amanda Brencys, Diego Fonesca
Head of Production & Technology: Carey Head
Head of Content Production: Kate Morrison
Business Affairs Manager: Sean McGee
Head of Account Management: Armando Turco
Account Manager: Mark Williams
Account Executive: Mike Mueller
Production: Mill+
Creative Director: Rama Allen
Executive Producer: Danielle Amaral
Producer: Stephanie Katritos
Editing Company: The Mill
Editor: Ryan Mckenna
Edit Assist: Leanne Belgiomo
VFX & Design: The Mill
2D Lead Artist: Nick Tanner
3D Lead Artist: Christian Nielsen
2D Artist: Rob Roth
3D Artist: Isaiah Palmer