BBDO Toronto Redefines Progress for Prince Edward County

BBDO Toronto examines the idea of “progress” and what it really means in a new spot promoting Prince Edward County, entitled “Progress Redefined.”

“It was progress that put a hole in our ozone” begins the voiceover in the spot, going on to question what the word really means in what appears to be audio captured at some kind of speech. The audio is juxtaposed with footage of the scenic county, captured by director by Chris Muir of Someplace Nice. This footage seems to present an alternative to the hustle and bustle of modern life hinted at in the description of progress, which converges when the speaker finally decides that progress “has given us a chance to redefine it.”

“We wanted to capture the essence of The County,’ explained Carlos Moreno, SVP, executive creative director, BBDO Toronto. “The County is holding progress at bay, embracing artisanal crafts and an authentic way of doing things.”

The approach makes sense, given that many of Prince Edward County’s offerings — local wineries, its farm-to-table dining establishments and “rustic-chic aesthetics,” to name a few — are reflective of the kind of values hinted at in “Progress Redefined.” Prince Edward County was pleased with the results. Neil Carbone, director of community development said, “We are thrilled with the result and eager to promote the idea of ‘real progress’ in marketing The County.” (more…)

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Canadian Charity Depicts ‘Extra Ordinary’ Lives of Those with Down Syndrome

From Toronto-based Juniper Park comes “Extra Ordinary,” a short documentary for Canadian-based non-profit Circle 21.

Debuting earlier this month on World Down Syndrome Day (March 21), “Extra Ordinary” gives a brief yet revelatory glimpse into the lives of those afflicted by the cognitively and physically debilitating condition. In my mind, what gives this little five-minute piece the most impact is not the images of people with Down Syndrome living happy and fulfilling lives. Instead, it’s the gripping narration from parents of these people, echoing one’s own views of an outsider looking in.

It’s hard, nay, impossible to understand what these people go through on a day-to-day basis, and it’s easy to feel sorry for them while simultaneously discounting the positive they impact they can make on everyone they meet. Even easier is perceiving that those with Down Syndrome can’t enjoy the same kind of happy lives that the rest of us can. But, hopefully, this doc can change those perceptions for some people. Credits after the jump.

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