Was it worth the wait?
It is inevitable that such a question will be on people’s minds after waiting so many months for the much-trumpeted promotional video on Barrhead. The 3 minute, 9 second video premiered on Sunday, April 6 at the Roxy Theatre.
What people saw was the sunny, smiling face of Barrhead – waving business owners, scenes from the street festival parade, petting zoos, water skiing on a lake, tractors rolling over fields, cowboys at rodeo events, activities at Misty Ridge Ski Hill and long open country roads shimmering in the heat. The final shot is of a hang glider at sunset, with the words “Alberta’s Home” emblazoned across the screen.
The film is a breathless montage of images with a musical accompaniment that captures a flavour of Barrhead. It is hard to believe Edmonton-based Frame 30 could have crammed more into such a short space of time.
One, two or even three viewings are not nearly enough. Blink and you will miss something. Blink and your impression of a serious omission may be misplaced. Accompanying the video are six testimonials on local organizations.
Those who haven’t seen the video should do so by clicking on YouTube or the Barrhead County website. After all, this is the Barrhead that is going out to the rest of the world; this is how your community is being represented.
Some argue there should have been a voice-over, some say the video is too scattershot and frenetic. But these seem minor gripes when what we have is a slick marketing tool that should encourage people to explore this wonderfully friendly place called Barrhead.
Frame 30 have done their job. We must now do ours and make maximum use of this opportunity.
