Top Director: Samuel Bennetts
In a regular column Campaign Brief Asia is turning the spotlight on a hot director. Here, we talk to Samuel Bennetts on the roster with Seven Sunday Films.
Sam Bennetts’ award winning work is hard to define. Its uniqueness is its strength, as he applies new and varied techniques to every project. In both concept and craft, he forms dynamic and engaging visual images that are fantastic yet accessible. His honest and human characters are always real and emotionally driven – combining to create films that are always talked about and relished. With a strong handle on visual effects and performance direction, Bennetts is a creator of films, commercials, music videos and video installations that inspire and move audiences
Bennetts is in a semi exclusive agreement with Seven Sunday Films.
How did you get your start in the industry?
I actually started out as a runner working on commercials and a few low budget films. I AD’ed and assisted for a while before I was given an opportunity to work on a short film. From there I was asked to shoot a few music videos before an English production company flew me over to the UK to direct commercials for them. Since then I’ve never looked back.
What was your first big break as a commercials director?
I think my first big break was working on an INXS track that had been remixed by a few DJs called Rogue Traders. We had such a great concept, Michael Hutchence as a singing lizard. Everyone was behind it and the video was a great success. It really put my name out there, not only as a professional director, but as a competent VFX director too.
What do you love about directing commercials? Tell me about your most recent job and what was involved/the challenges of the job and why you like commercial work?
I love everything about directing. I love the challenges, the teamwork, and the experiences. There is nothing like getting a great concept and bring it to life. I love people – getting to meet and talk to new people about interesting and exciting concepts and ideas is why I do the job. There is never a dull minute. And I get to see the world and express ideas that are key to who I am.
Have you recently shot in Asia? Is this a region where you are actively seeking work? What appeals to you about working in the Asian market?
I have been shooting in Asia for a few years. I am lucky enough to be able to work all over the world, living in LA and working in Europe and Australia as well. Everywhere is different and offers new experiences and opportunities. I have been very lucky to receive some incredible scripts from Asia that are now the first things on my reel. I am very excited about what will come next as boundaries are pushed and commercials evolve in the region.
Have you ever ventured into short films or films?
I have made a number of short films, both for my own gratification and for experimental commercials. I have also been lucky enough to make some music videos that are more or less short films. I love long form and am actively seeking it out in LA with a number of feature projects. I see it is a great platform to express my personal views and to entertain people along the way.
What’s the three most memorable spots you’ve directed? Why?
From my perspective it is all about the experience. So I’m not sure how I would classify my most memorable films. I find each of them fun and exciting in their own way, that’s why I take them on. They are each a part of me at a particular point in my life. I guess if you want to see the most memorable ones then look at my reel, that’s why they are there, but in all honesty, if I could I would put everything on my reel.
What are your favourite three commercials of all time?
That is such a hard question! Hahaha There are so many. I see a new great one every other day. If I had to put up three, it would be commercials that I look back at frequently for a laugh or a technique. They would be…
Nike – Robot Parkour Runner (although this is technically a spec spot)
What is your career highlight to date?
Almost every job is a highlight for me these days. I just love the experience of filmmaking and feel blessed to get to do it as often as I do. I don’t like to look back, I like to look forward. Tomorrow is going to be a career highlight and the next day and the next.
Tell me something about yourself that not many people would know.
I’m a bit of a science nut. I love anything to do with Quantum Physics and robots. I spend a lot of my spare time reading up about what is happening at the forefront of those areas as well as reading fiction based on the concepts.
Previous directors featured in this Top Director series: