February 19, 2009

What can a wacky auto dealer commercial teach us about public speaking?

One of my old acting buddies, Matteo Troncone, posted this video on Facebook. It's an ad he shot for a local auto dealer in San Francisco. I am confident his video was edited heavily for the client. But even if the off-the-cuff remarks were not used in the final video, his willingness to improvise wildly infused his style with so much fun and humor that it simply HAD to come out in the final product.

A few other observations:

Notice how Matteo uses the coffee cup, the espresso machine, the cars themselves, and even food as props to make his presentation active and dynamic.
He's clearly throwing out lots of ideas as the videographer shoots knowing that not all of them will be used but his freestyle creativity results in some real gems that WILL be used in the final video. This is a good way to practice and prepare for any presentation.
He returns to an earlier theme "don't forget to flush" for a strong conclusion.

It demonstrates the value of having fun and is a useful lesson for anyone who has to present themselves in person, on the phone, or on video.

Thanks, Matteo

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Tags: fun

Comments on What can a wacky auto dealer commercial teach us about public speaking?

February 21, 2009

Matteo Troncone @ 10:30 am

Hey Terry!
Thanks for the acknowledgment.
I do have to say, that making these videos is tremendous fun for exactly the reason you postulate. I basically "go for it" and then we see what "sticks" and throw out the rest. Also, I am always looking for a different angle to shoot them; props, backdrops, set pieces that can help me poke fun at the customers and of course myself, and possibly find a character.
We never have a script. Right before we shoot, and I mean right before, the photographer/director tells me what information he wants included, and as I said, we just go for it. Doing it this way is does make for more spontaneity, and FUN!; which is the reason why I like to do this work in the first place…
Cheers,
matteo