Maurice and the Black Bear School
Award: Graphite Pencil
Graphite Pencil / Sound Design & Use of Music / Audio Composition / 2021
Award: Wood Pencil
Wood Pencil / Editing / Film
Award: Wood Pencil
Wood Pencil / Art Direction / Film
Award: Shortlist
Shortlist / Casting / Film
Award: Shortlist
Shortlist / Direction / Film
Award: Shortlist
Shortlist / Entertainment / Non-Scripted Long Form
This latest chapter of Hennessy’s Wild Rabbit campaign tells the story of Maurice Ashley, the world’s first Black chess grandmaster – a story of Black brilliance and, above all, the power of the mind. The film depicts Maurice’s ascent from wide-eyed rookie to grandmaster, transporting us into the world of ’90s Brooklyn as he hones his skills among the Black Bear School of Chess. But what begins as a chronicle of the harsh lessons of defeat becomes a voyage into the different layers of Maurice’s mind and a story of the journey he must take deep within himself to become a champion.
What did the judges have to say?
"For audio composition, it checked all the boxes. It was unexpected in every way. So many layers. I could watch it over and over."
Karen Goora, Creative Director, Vapor Music
"I think this work stood out because of the connection between the history and all the audio elements on it: music, sound effects, voice over and final mix."
Roberto Coelho, Music & Sound Producer, Satelite Audio
"Measured, rhythmic storytelling and a masterful use of sound and music."
Nicola Chang, Sound Designer/Composer, Freelance
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