A HIGH SCHOOL QUARTERBACK. A MAGICAL VR WISH.
During Keannu's sophomore year he was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, a brain tumor that led to a stroke, leaving him unable to walk, talk or return to the field. His wish - to play football with his team again.
To make his wish a reality, we knew we had to do something innovative. So, we rallied together his teammates, community, friends, and family to create a Virtual Reality experience staring him as the quarterback.
We also produced 2 short films, a series of social media edits, and co-produced their annual gala in California, to tell the Make-A-Wish story in a new way - driving donations, engagement and advocacy.
WHAT WE DID
Project Development & Production | Film Development & Production | VR Experience Development & Production | Gala Development & Production | VR Mobile App & Customized VR Headsets
CREATING A VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE
To make his VR experience a reality, we collaborated with Keannu's school, community and team to choreograph a football game.
Using 360° VR cameras we created an immersive film shot from his point of view, pacing him back onto the field and into the game.
PRODUCING A MAGICAL REVEAL
In collaboration with Make-A-Wish, we co-produced a large reveal event at Keannu's football stadium, bringing together 1000's of his family, friends and community members.
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Before the event, we built a removable room in the middle of the field. Its purpose? To trick Keannu into thinking he was elsewhere!
Upon arrival, we blindfolded Keannu, took him to the room, and placed him in VR!
In the final moments of his experience, we removed the walls, and upon taking off the headset, he found himself surrounded by his team and cheering fans.
TELLING THE MAKE-A-WISH STORY
Make-A-Wish transforms the lives of millions of children, families, and communities around the world. Keannu's wish was the embodiment of their DNA.
Alongside the VR experience, we created a film to tell the Make-A-Wish story, which was premiered at their annual gala as well as multiple shorter edits for social and digital media distribution.
CO-PRODUCING A GALA, BUILDING A SMARTPHONE APP & CREATING BRANDED MAKE-A-WISH VR HEADSETS
Each year, Make-A-Wish brings together over 800 of its California supporters for a night of inspiring stories and giving, to support their annual campaign targets.
To help, we co-produced their annual gala, incorporating Keannus's story, speeches, and a visit from Keannu himself.
To enhance their guest experience, we also built a Make-A-Wish Virtual Reality smartphone app, and landing page + created over 800 branded VR headsets. Each attendee was gifted a headset allowing them to experience Keannu's VR experience as well as a unique VR experience we created providing supporters a behind-the-scenes peak into the Make-A-Wish Wishing Well room.