Conal Pierse

Video

 
 
 
On November 20, 2017, it will be a decade since the Mass Effect journey began. To celebrate #teN7, we're looking back at the inception of Mass Effect, its legacy, and how it all came together. Relationships were forged, uncharted worlds were explored, and galaxy-altering decisions were made.

10 Years of Mass Effect

To celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the launch of beloved videogame franchise, Mass Effect, I produce a retrospective short documentary.

Working with studio leadership, I identified key subjects and scheduled interviews across two locations, Los Angeles, California, and Edmonton, Alberta. I conducted research and prepared questions for all of the subjects, and arranged for a crew to film in LA, while myself and my direct report set up the shoot in Edmonton. On set I ran audio and conducted interviews.

Afterward I worked with an in-house team to source b-roll and archival footage. I then edited the final piece for release, working with studio executive on approvals.

 
Enjoy the dulcet tones of Brian Bloom as he reads an excerpt from Hard in Hightown, a book penned by prolific dwarven writer Varric Tethras (with help from BioWare's Mary Kirby). Hard in Hightown is available now in hardcover and e-book formats: https://bit.ly/2AbP0en Music credit: Allegretto from Beethoven's Symphony no.

Hard In Hightown

In order to promote an upcoming book, I put together this commercial starring Brian Bloom (Call of Duty, Dragon Age).

Working with the author, I developed the concept and wrote a script. I then worked with my videographer to come up with a treatment and arranged for studio time and an external lighting specialist.

On set I was the director and oversaw audio. I also edited the final piece and worked with studio leadership and our licensed partners on the release.

 
You're an explorer. You've always wondered what it would be like to see the stars and discover new worlds. While we can't physically send you to space, we can send your voice to Andromeda. Starting September 12, 2016 at 6 PM GMT, we're giving you the chance to voice a character in an upcoming Mass Effect videogame.

Explorers Wanted Contest

This humorous short was created to promote a global English-language competition.

I worked with my team to come up with the concept and art direction, and then I wrote the script. We then did location scouting and sourced a wardrobe and props for the shoot.

On set I worked with my videographer (who stars in the short) on framing, and then operated the camera. I then arranged voiceover for the final piece and edited it. I also worked with our legal team on approvals and requirements for the release.

 
Each year, countless BioWare players experience all the feels. These are their stories. Have a story you want to share? Tell us in the comments.

True Stories of BioWare Heartbreak

This web short tapped into the passion and nostalgia of die-hard fans as a series of faux-testimonials.

I researched and wrote the script, and then hired several local comedians to perform. I also rented a studio and arranged for gear transport and set up.

On set I oversaw audio and acted as director. I also edited the final piece.

 
When reputation is on the line, nothing else matters. So when Mary Kirby, writer of Vivienne, oversteps in snark toward Jessica Merizan, something must be done. Indira Varma, who voices Vivienne, demonstrates in true Orlesian fashion how to deal with bullies. After all, it's not enough to merely rebuke one's detractors - they must be destroyed.

Dressing Up Your Dressing Downs

This video starring Indira Varma (Game of Thrones, Rome) was part of a two-day shoot in London. I worked with our casting director to set up a series of interviews and short videos and hired a local videographer to film on set.

In addition to production planning, I also wrote, directed, and recorded audio for the short. I also edited the final piece.

As a result of careful planning and organization, we were able to produce five videos from the single-day shoot, generating more than 600k views for our newly established channel.