Defender Commercial Launch Film – Bringing the Vehicle to Life Through CGI

A complex and ambitious launch film created before the Defender Commercial physically existed. Directed and shot by myself and Phil Chapman, the project relied heavily on composited CGI and green screen production to bring the vehicle to life in authentic, real‑world scenarios.

Project Description

The 1:34 hero film was built around three distinct stories, each chosen to reflect how the Defender Commercial would be used in everyday professional life:

  • The Architect / Building Surveyor – Captured on green screen, these sequences showed the vehicle integrated into construction sites, with the actor loading and unloading tools essential to his work. The Defender was composited into each environment to create a seamless, realistic portrayal.

  • The Photographer – Shot on location in Wales, these scenes followed an actress working near a waterfall and in woodland. We highlighted the Defender’s practical features, including a customised lens holder, a 3‑pin plug socket for on‑the‑go editing, and the generous load space for her equipment.

  • The Gallery Owner / Art Dealer – This storyline focused on transporting valuable artworks and sculptures. Using green screen and empty video plates, we composited the Defender into the action, even showcasing a customised vehicle with the dealer’s company branding.

The result was a cinematic, detail‑driven launch film that combined live‑action storytelling with advanced CGI integration. By blending practical shoots with composited assets, we were able to showcase the Defender Commercial’s versatility and design before the vehicle itself was available — delivering a polished, on‑brand campaign film that felt both aspirational and authentic.

VFX Breakdown