BETC Unsilence Deafness in Choreographed Campaign

It's hard to convey deafness on screen, however a fab new spot from BETC Paris works wonders with this choreographed campaign for non-profit La Parole aux Sourds, which literally translates as A Microphone for the Deaf.

Shot in monochrome, Unsilenced features music from French-American electro band Haute and stars deaf dancer Billy Read whose mesmerising movements sync perfectly with the accompanying track.

Shot in Paris' Olympiades neighbourhood, the spot sees Read go about his day, strolling the city's streets surrounded by faceless people - highlighting the isolation he sometimes feels brought on by his condition. Directed by Alban Coret through Insurrection Films, the spot aims to highlight how some deaf people can be overlooked as they feel misunderstood by those around them.

By the end of the spot, it becomes clear that Read isn't just dancing, he's signing lyrics to the song - which he co-wrote with the band, using his other senses to tune into the track's beats. To see the version with the full lyrics, visit Unsilenced.

Haute Feat. Billy Read: Unsilenced

What was the brief with which BETC approached you?

I was required to tell a story through dance infused with sign language. The story reflected my true experiences as a deaf person, and the struggles of isolation and loneliness in a hearing world.

What was the inspiration behind the dance and the lyrics?

The inspiration was a mix of street styles with acting, and doing all this while walking in the street. An example of some inspiration I had, came from the video, Drop The Game by Flume and Chet Faker.

How did you get into dancing?

I started dancing quite late, when I was 21 years old. I got into it from my love of Michael Jackson. I was so inspired by his videos that I decided one day to teach myself all his iconic dance routines from Thriller, Smooth Criminal, Dangerous and many more.

The Making Of Unsilenced.

How important was it to tell this story correctly?

It was important that the main message of the story is told clearly and the hope is that both Deaf and hearing people will understand it. However, it is also art, and art doesn't always makes sense. The challenge is accessibility, ensuring the sign/dance makes sense where possible, without compromising on the artistic element.

What impact do you think filming it in black and white has?

It makes such a massive difference. When it's in black and white, the emotion is much more profound. Also, the fact the film was shot in the Olympiades district of Paris - all the architecture and it's shadows, angles and textures, it looks really visually stunning.