Created over 40 years ago by studio founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton, the iconic clay character joined the campaign drawing attention to the U.K.’s upcoming telecommunications transformation.
Multi-award-winning animation studio Aardman recently loaned its iconic Morph character to deliver the message of the upcoming PSTN switch-off, a digital transformation of business phone services in the U.K. Created in collaboration with communication service Gamma, the stop-motion animated short aims to spread the word to businesses throughout U.K.
Created over four decades ago by Aardman founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton, Morph is one of the animation studio’s pioneering and simplest masterpieces. The clay character, recognized for his slapstick comedy prowess and gobbledygook language, employs alternative methods to convey messages, aptly reflecting the essence of the Big Switch-off campaign.
Morph's character delivers messages in an uncomplicated, relatable manner. His celebrity notoriety in television roles such as The Epic Adventures of Morph, available on Sky Kids, ensure that his message resonates with multiple generations.
Watch: “Prepare for the PSTN Switch Off with MORPH”
The Aardman team embraced the collaboration with co-creator Peter Lord, delving into the creative process and ensuring that the final product would be quintessentially Morph.
“Gamma approached us with an exciting brief - to use Morph and Chas to help explain the big switch over of landline phones to new more versatile digital systems,” commented Aardman director Will Studd. “Working together with Peter Lord, co-creator of Morph, and Chris Parker, author and screenwriter, we created a fun, playful narrative that explains the concepts and benefits of the switch in a way that harks back to the golden age of kids TV.”
“Voiced by Derek Griffiths, staple of the 1970’s and 80’s Children’s BBC, we created a memorable, authentic film that plays on Morph and Chas’ classic antagonistic relationship to show how beneficial and easy the transition to digital is,” continued Studd. “Just like the show, Morph ends up on top, enjoying the full benefits of his digital communication. The film was a joy to create.”
Helen Owen, Head of Product Marketing, and a fan of Morph, added, “Morph is the ideal, if not obvious, ambassador for the Big Switch-off. His appeal bridges multiple generations, and his ability to simplify and bring humor to the everyday ensures that he cuts through the noise and captures the audience's attention. We believe that raising awareness of this significant change within UK businesses is essential and are hoping that the partnership of Gamma and Morph will draw attention to a Big Switch-off which to date has gone largely unheralded.”
Bringing Morph to life for this campaign was a meticulous process. The advert is divided into individual shots, sequenced for minimal disruptions and to maintain continuity. In a nostalgic touch, Peter Lord ensured the incorporation of some of Morph's original set dressings, including specially crafted paint cans with their “Lord & Sprox” brand.
Morph's unique charm and antics aim to add levity to the big PSTN switch-off, contributing humor and simplicity to the knowledge gap surrounding the subject in the U.K.
Source: Aardman
Debbie Diamond Sarto is news editor at Animation World Network.
