Roots
CLIENT
Commercial Production, Content, Photography, Fashion
SERVICES
Go Outside: You'll Be Glad
Roots x CLOT
CRUEL partnered with Roots to create a motion and stills campaign to celebrate a landmark collaboration with CLOT and founder Edison Chen; honouring the heritage of both brands. This partnership, marks Roots' 50th and CLOT's 20th anniversaries.
The inaugural collection, "Go Outside: You'll Be Glad," crafted in Roots' Toronto factory, marries high-quality Canadian production with CLOT's streetwear ethos. It encourages embracing the spirit of the outdoors, whether amidst Canada's natural beauty or Hong Kong's urban landscape. Edison Chen's vision combines Roots' commitment to comfort and style with CLOT's innovative, inclusive approach to streetwear.
The collection, including Leather Varsity Jackets and Kanga Hoodies, and the Lunar New Year collection, inspired by the Year of the Dragon, showcase a harmonious fusion of East and West. This collaboration stands as a vibrant testament to the unifying power of fashion.
CREDITS
Lead agency: @cruelcommons
Production Company: @parasiempre.ca / @postofficecreative
Director (Motion): @macsiwocha
Director (Stills): @domlisi
Creative Director/Photographer: @joey_saturday
Art Director: @janeespiritu
Executive Producer: @jackthomasroy
Executive Producer: @keshialall
DOP: @steventsinokas
Stylist/ Wardrobe: @bobbybowenn
Editor: @steventsinokas
Hair/ Makeup: @iamwinliu
Talent: @justjackyweng
Talent: @liannsun
Special Thanks:
@nolimitsheli
@strangeragency
@beauphotostore
@lizbellagency
Founded in 2013, CRUEL began as a university lifestyle platform in Montreal and a vibrant hub for young people, fuelled by the rise and influence of social media. By 2015, our company had transformed into a marketing agency, attracting clients keen to engage with youth culture, and leveraging expertise from hosting thousands of events and pioneering localized content initiatives. CRUEL's early success was marked by the nationwide launch of Snapple Spiked in 2016, leveraging an authentic, grassroots-focused campaign.
By 2018, CRUEL’s emergence as a creative force in the agency marketplace was nationally recognized, earning accolades such as Campaign of the Year and Brand of the Year for the launch of the 7ACRES cannabis brand. Since then, our agency has embraced adaptability and innovation, shifting from traditional event marketing to a fully integrated approach that now combines Branding, Content, Experiential, and Partnership services.
Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation, while also staying relevant, was highlighted by the LottoMax Dream Drop campaign in 2022, which was recognized with a Cannes Lion for Experience Design. In 2023, CRUEL continued to capture media attention, featured in prestigious publications such as Hypebeast, Highsnobiety, and Vogue. By delivering fully-integrated brand experiences that capitalize on contemporary trends, CRUEL consistently delivers innovative strategies to connect brands with the next generation of consumers.
BRANDING
Research and Insights
Brand Strategy and Planning
Brand Identity
Art Direction
Illustration
Graphic Design
UI and UX DesignCONTENT
Brand Storytelling
Digital Strategy
Content Production
Commercial Photography
Channel Planning
Community Management
Digital Platform Development
Emerging Tech Integrations
3D Motion DesignEXPERIENTIAL
Activation Development
Installations and Pop-Ups
Event Strategy and Production
Interactive Product Sampling
Logistics Management
Staff Recruitment/Training
Retail EnvironmentsPARTNERSHIPS
Strategic Partnerships
Negotiation and Contracting
Sponsorship Framework
Property Representation
Sponsor Activation
Valuation and MeasuremenBrand of the Year ADCANN and
Canadian Cannabis Awards
SUPREME CANNABIS (2018)
Best Marketing Campaign
O’Cannabiz Awards
SUPREME CANNABIS (2019)
ADC Awards 2022
Gold for Media InnovationMR. SATURDAY (2022)
Cannes Bronze Lion for Brand
Experience and Activation
MR. SATURDAY (2022)
Atomic Awards, Gold for Niche Targeting, Collaboration, Engagement
MR. SATURDAY (2022)