Write a short summary of what happens in the film

Heart disease is the single leading cause of death in Australian men, with salt abuse being a major contributing factor. Released to coincide with Salt Awareness Week, this tongue-in-cheek video clip and catchy tune combine to tell the story of one man’s lust for salty food and the effect that this inappropriate behaviour can have on the heart. The lyrics and imagery were carefully considered, ensuring that every word and food scene mirrored real-life culinary behaviour, albeit in a suggestive and humorous way. A retro animation style utilising hand-drawn illustration was chosen to further enhance the message that the overuse of salt is both outdated and old-fashioned. The film also introduces Heart Salt – a healthier alternative, containing 56% less sodium than ordinary salt.

Cultural/Context information for the jury

Heart disease is currently the leading cause of death in Australian males with salt abuse being a major contributing factor. On average, Australian adults consume double the amount of salt recommended by The World Health Organisation. 18.5 billion kg of added salt is consumed in Australia every year, which is enough to fill 760 Olympic sized swimming pools.

Tell the jury about the creation of the original music track.

‘Heart a-salt’ brings the serious issue of salt abuse to light in a tongue-in-cheek way. The catchy tune and lyrics combine to tell the story on one man’s lust for salty food and the effect that this inappropriate behaviour can have on the heart. The lyrics were carefully considered, ensuring that while every word mirrored actual culinary jargon, they were fun, suggestive, a little naughty and memorable. The tune itself was cabaret in style, the genre selected because of its ability to tell a story in a theatrical, over-the-top fashion. The repeated chorus, hints at a solution to the problem – preparing the listener for the reveal at the end of the film. Heart Salt, ‘a healthier alternative’ to ordinary salt is revealed at the end of the film.