First One in the Water
'First One in the Water' explores the duality of Raymond Kwong, the first Chinese-Canadian lifeguard in British Columbia, and his life on land and in water.
Video
Pitch video
Synopsis
'First One in the Water' is a short-form documentary that dives deep into the aquatic life of Raymond Kwong, the first Chinese-Canadian lifeguard in British Columbia. Through linear and immersive video formats, 'First One in the Water' blends the duality of two worlds: The linear short documentary is set on land, exploring Kwong as a Chinese-Canadian pioneer with a youthful spirit housed in an aging frame. The immersive video takes audiences underwater with a visual metaphor of Kwong's ability to maintain originality within the structures of his environment and his thoughts on the grace of aging as he glides freely around the viewer with the vigour of his younger self.
The team
With a prolific background in producing award-winning creative stories, crafting VR experiences and brand building, the team is poised to capture the impact of Raymond Kwong's story and ensure that it's being discovered by audiences.
Production
Interview Roster
Raymond Kwong is a 76 year old, Chinese-Canadian pioneer. Through interview, the audience learns the story behind how he became the first Chinese-Canadian life guard in British Columbia and the impact it's had on his perspective.
While having a youthful spirit, Kwong manifests his vigour physically underwater and continues to be a dynamic swimmer. The film will unpack how he has built a community around water and how it continues to be a key source of life.
Despite being 76 years old, Raymond Kwong is young at heart. 'First One in the Water' will explore his adventurous spirit and how he continues to subvert the expectations in his golden years. The film will explore various activities that express his open-minded eccentricities including modelling, stage acting and being a part of group dedicated to imitating aquatic animals.