"Nothing Comes Close"

5 December 2016

90s

Back on the saddle.

ITV mark horse racing's return to their schedules with this beautifully shot film. Having wrested broadcasting rights back from Channel 4, the station wants to treat the sport of kings with due reverence.

tantrum's Trent Jaklitsch and DP Ben Magahy find plenty to keep race fans engrossed, picking out subtle details like steam rising from a horse's coat. It creates a tangible atmosphere - so much so you can almost smell the turf.

The cinematic style favoured by Channel 4 over the years survives the transition. Amidst the hustle and bustle, however, we catch a glimpse of an ITV microphone. It's a subtle but effective detail. After years of watching from afar, it's clear the channel is eager to get back in the thick of it.

Watching a racecourse come to life carries its own sense of anticipation. Quiet moments as jockeys gather their thoughts and pundits warm their vocal cords give way to an explosion of noise and colour. It's a fitting spectacle as the channel prepares for the starting flag.

UK

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