Back to School
Start-Rite
The Brief
A Norwich Story: Back to School with Start-Rite
Sectors: Tech & Services
Services: Film
A Homegrown Heritage
There’s something special about telling a story that starts right on your doorstep. As a filmmaker UK studio based in Norwich, we were thrilled to collaborate with Start-Rite (a true local legend and the oldest shoemaker in Britain) on their latest back-to-school campaign. Founded in 1792, Start-Rite has been helping generations of children take their first steps with confidence, and this film was all about honouring that timeless tradition. Start-Rite has called Norwich home for over 230 years. That deep-rooted sense of place and history was something we wanted to bring to life in every frame. Capturing not just the shoes, but the feeling that comes with them: pride, nostalgia, and those butterflies-in-the-stomach first-day moments. As a team of storytellers and producers who live and work in this city, filming locally added an extra layer of connection. The school, the neighbourhoods, even the light; everything felt authentic, and that authenticity shines through in the final film.
The Concept
Working with Southpaw
Deliverables:
- Hero Film
We partnered with creative agency Southpaw to deliver a campaign that blends heritage with emotion. From concept through to final delivery, it was a joy to shape a film that honours Start-Rite’s legacy while connecting with today’s parents and carers.
It’s not every day you get to work with a brand that’s been around since the 18th century — and still going strong. That legacy gave the project a unique weight, but also a clear focus: this wasn’t just another back-to-school ad. It was a tribute to tradition, trust, and the power of a good pair of shoes.
Production
Local Brand, Local Crew.
In an industry that often pulls you far and wide, there’s something grounding about telling stories that start just a few streets away. It reminds us why we do what we do — not just to create compelling visuals, but to capture something real. If you’re looking for a filmmaker UK partner who understands how to craft local stories with national reach, we’d love to talk. Whether it’s a heritage brand like Start-Rite or a start-up with a big idea, we believe the best films begin with a sense of place.
We’re proud to call Norwich home. And even prouder to help one of its most iconic names step into the new school year with style.
Credits
Director
Joe Murray
Agency
Southpaw
Producer
Kellen Playford
Sound
Luke Billing
Crew
Michael Bailey
Liam Painter
Jessie Campbell
Related work
UEA
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