Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Executive Director of New Summit Academy

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

New Summit Academy is a supportive boarding high school and study abroad experience. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production to accomplish?

• Promotional video for our 20th Anniversary
• Founder's Video
• Collect as much visual representation for future use in social media and videos

SOLUTION

How did you find Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production?

Referral

Why did you select Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Awakened Films filmed on site for 4 days collecting interviews, drone footage, live capturing of classes, recreation, staff interviews and parent and student testimonials. They delivered a Founder's Video, a promotional anchor video for our school, and guidance on marketing strategy for social media clips. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

On time delivery of promotional school video and founders video. 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

They delivered ahead of schedule and offered 3 rounds of drafts and feedback editing. They were responsive and responsible. 

What was your primary form of communication with Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their energy, positivity and collaboration was impressive. Their skill set was also of the highest caliber. Their work ethic was unmatched. They worked really hard in a short period of time. Their pricing was competitive. 

Are there any areas for improvement or something Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production could have done differently?

I have no feedback because they took all of our feedback into account during the process and delivered products that were exactly what we asked for. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO of Vistage / Mountain Bay Advisors, LLC

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Provide Coaching and Mentoring for CEOs, Business Leaders, and Key Employees.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production to accomplish?

• Conduct and Facilitate an All Day Executive Team meeting with CEOs from various industries.
• Create a comfortable space for learning and collaboration
• Enable remote access via Zoom, with video, audio, projector and camera setup

SOLUTION

How did you find Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production?

Referral

Why did you select Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production over others?

• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Awakened Films provided an outstanding venue and seamless event experience for our all-day Executive Session. Their spacious and comfortable NJ-based studio created the perfect setting for our CEO-level attendees, fostering both engagement and productivity.

Beyond providing an ideal space, the Awakened Films team expertly configured the environment with top-tier audio, video, and live-streaming technology. Strategically placed cameras and microphones ensured that remote participants were fully immersed in the discussions, while in-person attendees felt connected and engaged. Their attention to detail was evident in their ability to accommodate a world-renowned speaker, meeting all of his presentation requirements flawlessly.

Additionally, Awakened Films went above and beyond by arranging and providing high-quality catering for both the morning and afternoon, ensuring that every guest felt well cared for throughout the day. Their professionalism, technical expertise, and hospitality created an exceptional experience—one that fostered deep conversation, learning, and connection for all participants.

If you’re looking for a team that delivers a seamless, high-quality event experience with precision and care, Awakened Films is second to none!

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Attendee Engagement & Satisfaction: 100% of in-person and remote attendees felt engaged and included in discussions.

Technical Excellence & Execution: 100% uptime with zero technical disruptions throughout the event.

Speaker & Event Support: 100% of the speaker’s requirements were met, ensuring a flawless presentation.

Catering & Hospitality: 100% of attendees were provided with high-quality meals and refreshments.

Overall Event Success: 100% of organizers’ expectations were met or exceeded.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Awakened Films delivered every aspect of the event on time and with exceptional attention to detail. From setting up the AV and live-streaming technology to ensuring the event space was fully prepared for our CEO-level attendees, their team was highly efficient and proactive. They responded to our needs with professionalism and flexibility, making real-time adjustments to optimize both the in-person and remote experience. Their ability to anticipate challenges and provide seamless solutions ensured that everything—from the speaker’s requirements to catering and attendee engagement—was handled flawlessly. Their commitment to excellence made the entire event a smooth, high-impact experience.

What was your primary form of communication with Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What impressed me most about Awakened Films was not just their technical expertise but the warmth and professionalism with which they executed every detail. Owners Jason and Gillian were incredibly kind, understanding, and truly invested in making our event a success. Their strong technical skillset was evident in the flawless audio, video, and live-stream setup, ensuring both in-person and remote attendees felt fully engaged. Beyond their expertise, their exceptional team created an environment that was welcoming, well-orchestrated, and stress-free. Their ability to combine high-level production quality with genuine care for our experience made all the difference, and I wouldn’t hesitate to work with them again.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production could have done differently?

There were no areas for improvement—Awakened Films executed every aspect of the event flawlessly. From their meticulous attention to detail in setting up the space and technology to their warm and professional approach, everything exceeded expectations. Their ability to seamlessly integrate in-person and remote participants, accommodate the speaker’s needs, and provide exceptional hospitality made for a truly outstanding experience.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the co-owner and chief creative officer at Ridge Marketing, a full-service digital marketing agency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production, and what were your goals?

We hired Awakened Films to film and produce several B2C and B2B videos for a global manufacturer of printers, label makers and scanners. We managed the client relationship, write the scripts and produced graphics, and Awakened filmed the videos and often handled the video edits and delivery.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We needed a video production company that could bring a cinematic, story-telling quality to the work, without being so large that collaboration would be difficult or budget unmanageable. Awakened Films years of experience, top-end equipment and a full range of services, while also being quite easy to work with.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

We collaborated on several videos with Awakened Films for this particular client. The videos needed to feel like TV commercials, but be cost effective for the client. We would usually price out the projects together, Ridge would write a script, produce storyboards, and manage client approvals.

Awakened would then often find and manage the actors and sometimes even provide the filming locations. They would break the storyboards down into a shot list that could be achieved in a single-day shoot, then handle the filming using our storyboards as a guide. The Awakened team was always collaborative, professional and detailed on film days.

They use the best equipment and know how to get beautiful shots that flow properly in the story. Awakened would then color correct the footage, edit the footage together, and incorporate and often animate our graphics. We would collaborate throughout the editing process, and Awakened received rounds of client feedback with grace.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

I worked directly with the owners, Jason and Gillian , and also with their talented staff on shoot days and in editing. All involved at Awakened Films are very open to input, requests and feedback during casting, filming and editing. They also offered their own ideas, based on years of experience, to make the process and final output better.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Awakened Films finished each video project on time and on budget, and the output was always creative and compelling. The videos we produced together were viewed by tens of thousands on large retailer websites, at events and on social media.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

They are very good at creating shot lists and keeping video shoots on track. When on a deadline, they do what it takes to meet or exceed it.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They take the time to get into the mindset of the target customer (viewer) and get very invested in the story they're trying to tell. For a relatively small team, they have a wide arsenal of professional cameras, sound and lighting equipment. And they're outside-of-the-box thinkers who take chances in order to get cinematic shots. And now that they've invested in a new studio they'll be able to offer even more.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

None that I can think of.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am a Co-Founder at Spitball Advertising, a full-service agency that disrupts the norms and consistently dreams up ideas that stick.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production?

We were the AOR to launch a revolutionary new surface cleaner from the makers of Lysol. Our team developed a concept and storyboard and sought out a vendor who shared our passion to bring the spot to life.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Jason and his team demonstrated the same passion and desire that we had which was a core characteristic we sought in a partner. It's rare to find someone who cares as much as you do and the personalities and values of our groups clicked immediately.

Awakened's pricing versus service value was extremely fair and they were accommodating of our requests.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

Following the client's approval of the storyboard, we looped in the Awakened team to set the shot list, location, models, props, and other minutiae that sometimes get overlooked once the cameras start rolling. All of the pre-production attention to detail was impeccable which carried into the actual shoot.

Having the right demeanor makes the world of difference during a shoot and the entire Awakened team showed patience with the talent and crew, exhibited a desire to collaborate to make the shoot the best it could be, and were open to a variety of different shots, even if it meant straying from the approved shot list from time to time.

What was the team composition?

Gillian was the perfect front person for the team. She was completely engaging and a joy to work with as we were onboarded into the Awakened world. Jason ran a tight production team that felt more like a partner than a vendor.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Awakened produced a 30-second spot that ran on digital outlets as well as an Amazon store. The product, originally slated to purely be a B2C offering, gained traction in-store which led to sales that eclipsed projections.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow between our team felt extremely communal and stress-free.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Awakened felt like a mirror image of Spitball whereas egos are checked at the door and the goal of doing the best work is paramount.

Is there any area for improvement or anything that could have been done differently?

I wouldn't change anything.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm a producer at Rally On Media.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production?

We were looking for a professional and high quality team to shoot some interviews and b-roll for a corporate video.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Selected them by calling them.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

They were absolutely remarkable from start to finish.

What was the team composition?

I worked closely with Jason who was the head DP as well as as another camera operator and lighting technician.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The client was extremely happy, and so were we.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Super!

What did you find most impressive about this company?

All around impressive- very prepared, great gear, high level of professionalism, attentive, and just had great attitudes.

Is there any area for improvement or anything that could have been done differently?

nope!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm an independent creative consultant and writer.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production, and what were your goals?

I needed a production company to execute the filming, editing and creative concepting for a low budget municipal project that had to be compelling and high quality.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Awakened Films was recommended to me on the basis of their previous work with one of the town committee members with which they were very satisfied.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

Jason, who is the founder of Awakened Films, and I met frequently over a two year period to brainstorm visual ideas and locations for the script.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Jason and I were the creative\production team and we clicked, sparked ideas off each other, made ideas better and better as the process continued. We dealt with everything from visual concepts, casting, location scouting, editing ,music and special effects to be incorporated into the final video. We were available to each other at short notice when new ideas struck. The working relationship was congenial and professional with great mutual respect.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

At this point, the scenes have been shot and the editing is ongoing. We hope to show the Township Committee a finished 90 second video for use of websites and made available to real estates agents, the Mendham Township TV station, and any organization that wishes to promote living in the Township.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

The style was casual and relaxed. As with any good team, ideas were always thoughtful and nothing was rejected without discussion. We added to each others ideas and made them better thoughout.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Small, intimate company that has the capabilities of larger production companies. Never bogged down in organizational levels. Great ideas and everyone only after good work.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

I was very satisfied with all aspects of the company and expect the final execution to fully realize the script and concept.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the marketing director for the local chapter of a large environmental nonprofit. I handle all communications including video production to bring our conservation stories to life.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Awakened Films - New Jersey Video Production, and what were your goals?

We have used Awakened Films for several projects and they are superb. In one particular instance we were seeking to raise awareness about a very boring restoration technique at the Jersey Shore. We provided a script and hired celebrity talent, and Awakened Films did the rest to make the subject engaging and funny. They were super professional, flexible and always go above and beyond to get the best shots. They have a knack for editing, too, so we rarely have to go back more than once with edits.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

I interviewed 4 different film production companies, but the enthusiasm, professionalism, willingness to slop around in mud and competitive pricing with a nod to nonprofits from Awakened Films put them at the top.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

We have used Awakened Films for all sorts of videos. Usually we provide a script or at least a strong outline so that we stay aligned. We always have a kickoff meeting to discuss goals, priority messaging, desired visuals, timeline and budget. I often am present at the shoots but have enough confidence in the AF team that I have also allowed them to film independently at times.

After the shoot, they go into editing mode and deliver a rough cut which is usually very close to our intended vision. I review and send back any tweaks, which they make and then deliver the final product for download in various formats.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

I have worked primarily with Jason the owner, but also have interfaced with the camera crew, editors and administrators. They always "get" the project from early on and so we have never had any surprise problems late in the process. Feedback is simple and straightforward, either via email or phone, and they take direction well while also providing valuable guidance and best practices from their robust experience.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

A video that AF created for us helped us raise more than $75K in less than 10 minutes at a fundraising event. The piece was embraced by our global organization for awareness and donor communications, even making it up to the global board of trustees (no small feat!). All the chapters on the east coast are using it and have sent in kudos.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

AF is great to communicate with--very responsive and upfront about schedules.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They always suggest some tweaks to the videos that make them better, funnier, and more impactful, more resonant. They also can work across many themes and tones, from the serious and emotional to the irreverent and silly. I am always impressed as well at their willingness to work in sometimes unusual conditions out in nature.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Nothing to change!