About the Project

Rise Above was created as a speculative short for Melin, designed to showcase the brand’s performance-driven identity through clean visuals and focused storytelling. Instead of relying on big crews or heavy setups, the film uses natural light, movement, and real locations to give each scene a grounded, athletic feel.The piece follows three connected storylines—a surfer chasing the perfect break, an athlete pushing through a strength session, and a golfer working through the rhythm of their game. These environments were chosen to highlight themes of discipline, calm, and precision while visually aligning with Melin’s product design and culture.Shot across multiple locations in California and Hawaii, the project mixes handheld work, stabilized shots, and fast-paced cuts to bring out the energy behind each moment. Every frame was built with intention, keeping the film simple, clean, and cinematic.

Behind the Film

Rise Above is a short branded piece built to capture Melin’s look, energy, and mindset. The film follows three athletes in different environments. Surfing the Pacific, pushing strength in the gym, and finding focus on the course. Each scene blends lifestyle with performance, and everything was shot to feel grounded, clean, and real. The project was filmed across California and Hawaii using a mix of handheld, gimbal, and aerial setups. The goal was simple: create something that feels like a true Melin campaign while showing what a small, focused team can produce with intention and craft.

Credits

Director / Producer / Editor
Cole Morell

Director of Photography
Cole Morell

Additional Cinematography
Julian Petraru (Poppy Hills segment)

Colorist
Dima Litvinov

Talent
Mackenzie Files — Surfer
David Veseke — Performance Athlete
Cole Morell — Golfer

Locations
Poppy Hills Golf Course — Pebble Beach, California
Jacked Culture Gym — Roseville, California
Pinetrees Surf Break — Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Produced by
Layout Studios