Kwikset's Latest Spot Lifts the Lid on Microban Antibacterial Technology  

Creative production house Stept Studios collaborated with agency Schiefer | Chopshop on the latest ad for hardware and lockset company Kwikset, Science Project. Helmed by Stept roster director duo Varsity - the directing partnership of John Marisco and Ben McManus - the spot immerses us within the world of two friends on a mission of discovery. 

Tapping into their inner Stranger Things sensibilities, Varsity propels us into the world of two young boys comparing and contrasting levels of bacteria found on various household surfaces - only we view their world through the lens of an iPhone camera rather than a Super 8. The boys are engaged in understanding the science behind Kwikset’s Microban technology, the brand’s built-in antimicrobial product protection for door handles. Since we can’t see product damaging bacteria with the naked eye, the boys use a microscope to delve into the realm of minuscule organisms. 

Says Varsity director John Marisco: “Ben and I have been making videos together since we were eight years old, so it was really quite nostalgic to tap into the energy of childhood to make this piece. We honestly love working with kid actors, and all of our talent was exceptional in bringing that youthful chaos to life.”

Adds Varsity director Ben McManus: “Science Project was a really fun and rewarding project in large part because Schiefer | Chopshop and Kwikset were so passionate and focused on fully realising each of the characters. Covid-19 obviously presented us with a fresh new set of challenges, but there is so much comradery and can-do spirit buzzing around Stept that no obstacle seems too great.”

Says Stept managing director Laura Cushing: “Filming while under Covid restrictions means not only following strict safety protocols but also being able to be responsive to the rapidly changing environment and deliver consumer messaging that is relevant and timely. I’m so proud of Varsity and the entire Stept team for producing this quality work so quickly and with such creativity and care.”   

Varsity is no stranger to developing characters we quickly identify with, as well as crafting genuine performances, all while shooting for the edit. They have written and directed a range of projects for brands including Funny or Die, Ikon Ski Pass, and Columbia. They’re currently developing an original esports series with toldright. Varsity also wrote and directed an original series, a mockumentary about a one-man boyband, based on a treatment by musical artist Lauv which started airing earlier this year.