After an age of TV ads that exaggerate, exploit and obfuscate, there is a vein of
communication that embraces sincerity and honesty. Today’s wiser audience can see
through the sales pitch, that’s why an approach that enriches their viewing might be
more appreciated.
Such is the case with a mini documentary series commissioned by Master Card in the
build up to the Rugby World Cup 2011, which takes place in New Zealand from 9
September to 23 October. The series celebrates rugby history and gives people a richer
perspective on the game.
Directed by Australian Richard Bullock working with Prodigy Films of Sydney, a small
crew with two Canon 5D cameras, a Canon 1D and a range of Nikkor primes captured
the stories of some rugby legends. The series delves into their lives, the people that
inspired them and who they in turn inspire. From tattoos hammered into Samoan skin,
to New Zealand cow pastures doing double duty as rugby fields, to a school in Paarl,
South Africa where the coaches who towered over Chester Williams now gaze up at him,
the cameras capture scenes both fascinating and uplifting.
Bullock, who worked as a copywriter in Johannesburg during South Africa’s formative
decade, says: “I was present for the 1995 Rugby World Cup. It was the beginning of my
love affair with this incredible country. Being asked to travel the world to meet my rugby
heroes and tell their stories was an absolute privilege.
“Having South Africa as the last leg of the shoot was a fantastic way to finish off. It was
wonderful talking to Chester Williams and his friends and family, and realising that all
those who experienced South Africa’s 1995 World Cup win had very similar feelings. The
South African team and the public all felt as if they were living through something bigger
than sport.’
Williams has been instrumental in giving youngsters hope through sport, and his
funding of a junior rugby team’s tour to London this year, as well as support for his old
school, are the focus of the South African leg of the series. It is facilitated by local
service company Cape Direct.
Standing before a mural not far from his school, painted to commemorate his part in the
1995 World Cup, Williams says: “I’ve been involved with this community for the past six
years. What’s wonderful is that this documentary gives more exposure to the
community and shows how things have developed in South Africa.’
Here’s to more rugby history in the making.
