The first spot follows Michael Phelps above and below water as he trains, so the sound design called for highly contrasting palettes. Submerged, we hear the low, filtered sounds of Phelps’ feet against the pool wall, and the otherworldly ripple of the waves. As the camera moves above the surface, the design becomes more organic and contemplative: heavy breathing, splashing water, the echo of his inner monologue. When Phelps hits the water for his final dive, the sudden impact and cheering crowds provide a jolt of energy that carries through the end of the spot.

The second spot required a more visceral approach, with Anthony Joshua’s punches accentuated by forceful, bassy hits, the crackle of fireworks, and blooming flames ripping through the air. The spot builds to a climax marked by the chiming of the bell as the match begins. When the bell rings, the sound and music briefly cut away, as if we’ve entered the eye of the storm. A second later, the sound comes roaring back to life: the music crescendos as the crowd cheers and Joshua’s thudding punches pile up.

DIRECTOR: Andrew De Zen
DP: Jeremy Snell
EDIT: Outside Editorial
COLOR: Joseph Bicknell
SOUND DESIGN & MIX: Defacto Sound