What Happens When Creative Strengths Unite?
Verizon, 'Boomerang,' brings together the best in design and storytelling
Verizon approached The Mill, a Technicolor Group studio, to tap into the combined expertise in direction, design, VFX, and colour to deliver ‘Boomerang’. The Mill team was excited to concept, develop, and deliver directly with Verizon's internal creative marketing team, curating top talent and attacking the project with enthusiasm.
Mill+ directors Mike Schaeffer and Ty Richardson, who share nearly 20 years of experience at The Mill, brought their shorthand and creative chemistry to bear. As part of Mill+, the creative content studio of The Mill, they went from a blank canvas to a fleshed-out concept in just a few weeks. Together with Verizon's in-house team, they crafted a film that balanced authenticity to Verizon's refreshed branding with the product-specific needs of the OEMs.
The Mexico City Shoot
The film was shot in Mexico City with an incredible local production team supporting the crew. Director of Photography Adam Carboni’s extensive experience with Mike and Ty, as well as his sharp eye for VFX-forward storytelling, streamlined every step of the production. Editor and Director Al Benoit joined the team, bringing his collaborative spirit, passion for film, and deep understanding of storytelling to assemble the first cuts with record speed.
Design, VFX, and Colour to Tie It All Together
A bright, poppy grade by in-house Colourist Ashley Ayarza Woods anchored the campaign’s playful tone, while invisible VFX ensured all elements fit together beautifully. Despite its large TV media buy, the campaign was social-first in its approach. Every shot was composed and framed with this in mind, ensuring seamless adaptability across platforms.
With a talented cast, a comedic edge, and agile workflows, Boomerang is a testament to The Mill’s ability to blend creative vision with technical precision. This project not only highlights our legacy of high-end VFX but also our ability to adapt and deliver in today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving creative landscape.
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