It’s not only Christmas that fills the world with life-affirming commercials. Banks are rather good at it too. The latest heart-filled ad comes from Colenso BBDO and Bank of New Zealand. It promotes the bank’s support of smaller businesses – in a new way, by highlighting the important role a business can play in someone’s life.

It’s the story of a teenage boy with a love for dance who lives and works in rural New Zealand. His passion for dance is apparent. It’s also clear that this isn’t understood by his mates. So a dance studio, which does understand and support his passion is important to him.

The 90-second spot was directed by Nathan Price at Ruskin and its emotional content is underscored by a stripped back cover of Robyn’s 2010 song, Dancing on my own, which became a Calum Scott hit in 2016.

Simon Vicars, chief creative officer, Colenso BBDO, commented, “It’s been a hard year for businesses. Now felt like the right time to advocate for their importance again – to remind us all of the influence they have in the lives of everyday New Zealanders. There’s so much uncertainty that comes with being a teenager. This is a story of a business that doesn’t just teach dance but reassures a kid he’s not alone.”

Amy Phillips, general manager of marketing and design at BNZ, added, “At our heart, we’re the bank that backs businesses and the people behind them. The last 18 months have been tough for New Zealand’s businesses, but we’ve stood by them and helped them adapt, knowing the important role they play in our communities.”

The commercial, which was shot across two days in Tūākau, will run on Tv and digital, supported by OOH and social.

Credits:

Client: BNZ

Agency: Colenso BBDO

Production Company: Ruskin
Director: Nathan Price
Executive Producer: Claris Harvey
Producer: Helen Naulls
DOP: Ginny Loane
Editor: Luke Haigh
Colourist: Ben Eagleton
Online: Damon Duncan & Rhys Dippie
Post Production: Assembly
Music & Sound: Franklin Rd

Media Agency: Hearts & Science