The moment I heard about John Leonard and Todd Hoffman's audacious quest to win a Harrier jet from Pepsi—yes, an actual fighter jet—I knew this was a story begging to be told. Inspired by a classic 1996 TV commercial, these friends were out to turn the fantastical into the factual. Teaming up with director Andrew Renzi, we set out to capture a special chapter of this saga, one set against the backdrop of Antarctica's Mt. Vinson.
Armed with a solar-powered, full-frame Red Raptor and an anamorphic lens package, we didn't just document an ascent; we dove deep into the essence of friendship formed in climbing and adventure. The visuals we captured were stunning, sure, but it was the heart of their relationship that really took the project to the next level.
This wasn't my first rodeo with John and Todd; our paths had crossed before. But there was something about reuniting for this particular escapade, this brilliant boondoggle, that felt like destiny. It was a potent reminder that friendships forged in the crucible of adversity are the ones that inspire us to embark on the most incredible journeys.
So, when you watch "Pepsi, Where's My Jet," know that you're not just seeing a wild quest for a fighter jet—you're witnessing the power of friendship to fuel truly extraordinary adventures.
