Year
2024
Client
Category
Product Duration
2 - 3 Weeks
In collaboration with Windmar Home, this project reimagined a traditional ad installation through the lens of a viral, reality-bending VFX moment. Set against the iconic hill across from Plaza Las Américas in San Juan, the goal was to make it appear as if a massive solar-powered billboard was being flown into place by helicopter — all while the real sign was still in progress. The result: a convincing illusion that sparked confusion and awe across social media.
The video plays with scale, motion, and realism — intentionally walking the line between believability and fantasy. While the helicopter and sign placement were fully CG, the footage and compositing were designed to blend seamlessly with the Puerto Rican skyline, evoking the realism of citizen-captured footage. Lighting, movement, and sound were carefully tuned to feel spontaneous and unscripted.
Using a full 3D model of a military-style helicopter and a realistic simulation of the Windmar sign, the scene was composited over aerial footage of the hill and expressway. The animation mimicked the weight, sway, and flight behavior of a real helicopter transport. Extensive post work went into blending the light, shadow, and atmospheric conditions to make the scene feel tangible and native to the location.
This piece was part of a larger “Fake Out of Home” campaign strategy, where the boundary between real-world advertising and digital illusion is deliberately blurred. The objective wasn’t just visibility, but shareability — and the response was instant. The comments were filled with people genuinely questioning whether they had just missed a real-life aerial stunt. It’s a testament to the power of playful deception, smart execution, and high-end visual effects.
