The Cavalry Signs Director Laurence Dunmore

The Cavalry Productions has signed Director Laurence Dunmore for commercials and digital work in the US. The announcement was made by Executive Producers Ross Grogan and Tanya Cohen. Dunmore is a highly lauded Cannes Lion winning director with credits for American Express, Dodge, AT&T, ING, Liberty Mutual, Bank of America, BMW, Cadillac, Ford, Mercedes, Dewar’s, Jameson, Lexus and Turkish Airlines.

“Laurence encompasses the true essence of a cinematic visual storyteller,” says Cohen. “His films resonate with a captivating style defined by character performance and arresting visuals - receiving critical acclaim in the process. He can work across any platform.”For his part, Dunmore is joining The Cavalry because “Ross and Tanya are like me, passionate about making film,” says Dunmore. “They have embraced the new digital platforms, extending the boundaries and possibilities of the storytelling craft I love. There is a focused dynamic and commitment - a family of filmmakers challenging themselves and inspiring eachother.”

Graphic Beginnings

Dunmore began his career in graphic design and art direction in the media and music industries before moving into directing. The director was quickly signed by RSA, where he made a string of award-winning commercials and films, launching an upward trajectory of work that extends to this day.

Dunmore is also known for directing THE LIBERTINE, a feature film starring Johnny Depp, nominated for  British Independent Film Awards including Best Director. While shooting a Eurostar commercial with John Malkovich, the actor gave Dunmore the script for The Libertine, a darkly humorous Restoration-era drama – which would become Dunmore’s feature film debut. The film was a visceral immersion into the troubled genius and debauched life of John Wilmot, second Earl of Rochester. It was nominated for seven British Independent Film awards, including two for direction.

Life, Love, Universe

Dunmore believes in diversity and doesn’t define himself by genre, more by attitude and interpretation. “All film begins with an idea, the dream and creative thought evolving into script. I bring vision inspired by a collaborative process to create something visceral, original and engaging.” Dunmore believes the advertising world is alive with this potential and says “there is no point engaging if you don’t believe you can bring your best to the table. Whatever the script, the product or the journey, the film has to respect the creative vision then elevate and define.”

Unique Craft

Since day one, Dunmore has directed an enviable number of iconic campaigns, perhaps none more so than for Tullamore DEW. “The Other Wall” spot features four friends dressed for a funeral, sitting on a wall in the rain, lamenting the demise of their brother Jerry, only to find Jerry’s funeral is his wedding. Or was his wedding his funeral? The spot took Silver at Cannes.

“With Laurence it’s all about the subtleties and genuine moments that make his films truly special.” says Grogan “He finds the right tone, that right look that never feels forced or intrusive, it’s why his work resonates so deeply.”  Dunmore continues his award-winning luxury brand work for Diesel, Giorgio Armani and most recently for Hermes, winning an EPICA for Direction and Cinematography for his stunning 2016 Terre D’Hermes campaign.

Fearless 

Dunmore has been a champion of social issues throughout his career, directing films that address social issues or take controversial stands. He points to work for the Commission for Racial Equality and a campaign promoting women’s equality in the workplace (‘Change for Good’). In his latest films for Tullamore DEW, Dunmore has crafted cinematic stories rich with social poignancy addressing immigration, acceptance, and integration in the timely ‘Beauty of Blend’ campaign. “These are films with worth and value, their social commentary is important and resonant as it defines the culture and heritage of the brand and a relevant commentary on the Irish as immigrants,” says Dunmore. “But it also engages the essence of the product - a blend. The films wouldn’t have quite the relevance if they were just for a single malt.” 

Immerse and Embrace

Dunmore is currently working on a (small) handful of feature and TV projects ranging in diverse content, including a visionary and brutal coming of age story, a film set against the epic landscape of 19th century frontier America engaging adversity and acceptance, another a “darkly mischievous and provocative” TV series. His approach and passion has not changed. “Film making is all consuming. I operate the camera, to be immersed and connect to character, performance and the visceral beauty of the image,” he says. “I love to be challenged and look to redefine with the passion I have for film.”