In a realm where gaming and cinema collide, World of Tanks breaks new ground with a festive blockbuster titled ‘No Going Back.’ Collaborating with independent global creative agency CUBO and leading production house HALAL, World of Tanks ushers in the holiday season with an unconventional campaign that challenges the norms of Christmas promotions.
Vinnie Jones Takes Center Stage
Every year, World of Tanks transforms its gaming landscape with a seasonal takeover by a renowned personality. For the 2023 Holiday Ops event, the mantle of ambassadorship falls on the shoulders of none other than British football legend and movie star Vinnie Jones. To unveil Jones’s pivotal role, HALAL director Andzej Gavriss crafts ‘No Going Back’—a visually stunning, five-minute masterpiece that introduces Jones alongside a hard-hitting Santa and his crew of misfit elves.
A Unique Plot Twist
Breaking away from the saccharine traditions of Christmas campaigns, ‘No Going Back’ weaves a tale where Vinnie Jones, known for enforcing Santa’s naughty list, decides to hang up his Christmas hat. His resignation isn’t to retire from the festive duties but to become a commander in the World of Tanks universe. However, before bidding adieu, Vinnie and his crew embark on one last mission—to knock out the final “naughty list.”
Agile Creativity in Action
The creation of this ambitious film is as exceptional as its storyline. Using CUBO’s agile methodology, the entire campaign—from concept to consumer testing—unfolded within an impressive five-day creative sprint. The result is a meticulously crafted film that stands on par with classic gangster movies, showcasing the power of agile collaboration and creative synergy.
Multilayered Appeal to a Global Gaming Niche
Targeting the extensive World of Tanks player base—spanning PC, mobile, and console platforms—the film is a spectacular display of gaming knowledge intertwined with cinematic craftsmanship. With a target audience exceeding 200 million gamers globally, ‘No Going Back’ transcends traditional marketing boundaries, offering an experience that resonates across diverse markets and platforms.
Balancing Tension and Laughter
‘No Going Back’ boldly embraces tension and drama while delivering hearty laughs. The film’s success lies in its iconic casting, meticulous art direction, high production values, and captivating cinematography. Crafted under the guidance of CUBO’s creative director Henry Scott, alongside playwright Ryan Delehanty and the collaborative efforts of the entire team, including the cast who contributed improvised jokes and lines, the film strikes a perfect balance between gripping narrative and comedic relief.
Behind the Scenes Magic
Directed by the rising star Andzej Gavriss, known for his impactful LGBTQIA+ PSA ‘We Will Become Better,’ ‘No Going Back’ was brought to life during an intense four-day shoot. The production involved a massive crew, intricate set designs, and a temperamental vintage tank weighing 55 tons, orchestrated by HALAL’s Head of Production, Job Sanders.
In conclusion, ‘No Going Back’ not only redefines the boundaries of Christmas campaigns but sets a new standard for the synergy between gaming and cinematic storytelling. World of Tanks, CUBO, and HALAL have created a festive spectacle that not only captivates the gaming community but transcends into the realm of timeless entertainment. 🎮🌟
