Mayice -Chasing the Light
Exploring the interplay between light and perception
Directed by Grosso Modo
Chasing the Light delves into the intricate interplay between light and perception, offering a unique exploration of the creative process behind Mayice's lamps. In our interview, directors Grosso Modo share insights into their approach to translating the concept into a visual narrative that goes beyond traditional documentary conventions. Revealing the challenges of capturing the intangible nature of light and its various connotations, they recreate two distinct environments symbolised by black and white and vibrant colours, respectively.
Chasing the Light explores the intricate relationship between light and perception. Could you share insights into your creative approach in translating this concept into a visual narrative?
The initial idea was to show the creative process of the Mayice designers when developing one of their lamps, but we did not want to tell it in a documentary way or do a How Do They Do It, but instead we seek to transmit the art behind those creations.
In terms of telling the story, we had the difficulty of trying to capture the intangible nature of light and what it represents. Light can have multiple meanings and connotations, and trying to convey its essence and impact was a creative and conceptual challenge.
After deep reflection, we made the decision to represent two different environments: the inner world, symbolized by the dichotomy of black and white, and the world in color, which reflects its interaction with reality.
Can you elaborate on your collaboration with the Spanish product design and architecture studio Mayice? How was the collaboration born and did their perspective influence the film's narrative?
We have known Mayice for years and it is not the first time we have worked together, so when we proposed the idea of developing this project to them they immediately came on board.
We share with them a deep interest in light and how it is explored by architects to generate emotions and change the atmosphere of spaces. The relationship between the work and the viewer is fundamental, since this connection modifies the observer's perception depending on their point of view.
Sound design and color grading contribute significantly to the overall cinematic experience. How did you collaborate with Álex Asensi for sound design and Jon Corcuera for color grading to enhance the emotional impact of the film and reinforce the thematic elements?
When we were preparing the project we were very clear about where we wanted to focus it, both sound and visually.
In the visual section, we chose to shoot the exteriors with tungsten film to get as close as possible to the blue tone so characteristic of the project. We wanted to highlight the cold and out of control environment in contrast to the warm lights used by the designers in the interior spaces in which they work. When we got to grading, Jon made it very easy for us and quickly understood where we wanted to go with the color.
In the sound section we like to create a first basic editon on our own before meeting with the sound designer. In this project the sound design was really important since by not having dialogues the rhythm was based on the relationship between the music and the diegetic sound. When we got to the studio and gave that basic edition to Álex, he knew how to take advantage of what was worth and change what was necessary to reach the final idea we are so proud.
“We share with them a deep interest in light and how it is explored by architects to generate emotions and change the atmosphere of spaces”
Grosso Modo is a creative duo formed by film director Carlos Santana and cinematographer Manuel Ruiz. Your work seems to revolve around the world of design, having already collaborated with several brands. What led you to this specific niche?
Actually, we are dedicated to shooting all types of advertising, we do not focus only in design, but it is in this world in which we have found the freedom to create our own personal projects in collaboration with brands. We have always felt that they have let us develop our ideas and that they have not closed themselves to their own concept, something that in other worlds of advertising is almost impossible.
On the other hand, in the world of design the client is always a creative person beyond the company behind it and it is that creativity that takes precedence when developing the project.
What are you working on next?
We are working on a documentary project about a dancer and the relationship that is established when trying to develop your career in a creative world and at the same time having to work on other things to survive.
Production: Grosso Modo
Talent: Marta Alonso, Imanol Calderón
Direction: Carlos Santana
Cinematography: Manuel Ruiz
Sound design: Álex Asensi
Color grading: Jon Corcuera
Dev and scan: Mutascan