Transformation is the overriding theme of "Born On 9/11," Grey New York's integrated campaign for the nonprofit 9/11 Day organization—featuring PSAs that ask Americans to do at least one good deed next Friday to commemorate the 14th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
In effect, we're challenged to transform our thinking, to erase sad, hateful thoughts and to use 9/11 as a springboard for putting hope into action. That may sound simplistic or trite, but the ads hit all the right notes.
Various teens who share 9/11/01 as their birthday appear in the ads, and Hillary O'Neill makes a fine choice as the principal spokeskid. She seems so poised, genuine and self-aware that even the good-deed memory string tied around her finger—which, under other circumstances, might feel a bit forced—works well in context as a visual cue for the campaign. Plus, Bodega Studios director Adam Reid employs a relaxed, understated documentary style that keeps the proceedings from getting sappy.
"When we interviewed these children born on 9/11, we quickly found out that none of them wished their birthdays were different," says Andreas Dahlqvist, Grey New York's chief creative officer. "In fact, they feel strongly that they represent what's good in the world."
That vibe really resonates, and gives the campaign its quiet power. While watching the spots, it's possible to put cynicism aside and believe that simple good deeds—which users can share via the #911Day hashtag—might just add up and make the world a better place.
CREDITS
Client: 9/11 Day Organization
Spot: Born On 9/11
Agency: Grey New York
Chief Creative Officer: Andreas Dahlqvist
Executive Creative Director: Linda Mummiani, Caitlin Ewing
Art Director: Carla Johnson
Associate Creative Director: Kim Healy
Project Manager: Liz Vaughan
Agency Producer: Judi Nierman
Production Company (Location): Bodega Studios
Prod. Co. Executive Producer: Clint Goldman
Director: Adam Reid
Director Of Photography: Adam Reid
Editing Company: Rock Paper Scissors
Editor: Parker Whipple
Producer: Mike Tockman
Exec. Producer: Eve Kornblum
Music Producer: Ben Dorenfeld
Audio Engineer TV: Matt Baker
Audio Engineer + Sound Design Radio: Blast- Joe O'connell
Principal Talent: Hillary O'Neill
Account Team:
Partner: Jason Kahner
SVP/Account Director: Tara Cosentino
Account Executive: Jillian Kettler
Strategy:
Strategy Director: Peri Shaplow
Director/Social Media: Laura Chavoen
Social Strategist: Olga Zakharenko