We don’t remember exactly how we came across the Alternative Rugby Commentary back in 2007. We were probably looking into the Tri-Nations and it comes as no surprise to us today that you’ll find no better a personality in rugby commentary than New Zealand’s very own Jed Thian.
In America, Jed would normally remain a virtual enigma in rugby commentary but thanks to that invention (the internet) and the talents of Fraser Davidson, Jed’s hilarious accounts of Test Series, Autumn Tours and World Cups come alive with a collection of short animated clips found here. In fact, one of the first clips we watched had us rolling with the comparison of how the French would execute a play vs. The All Blacks. If you’re French, please don’t get offended.
To others, the 5 Facts about Richie McCaw was entertaining. Especially the whimpering of Schalk Burger.
Stylistically speaking, these videos never get boring to watch. The cleverness of shapes, transitions and typography explain why they’ve been viewed millions of times across the globe. We recall seeing a World Rugby Shop ad animated in the same style and not long after, WRS partnered with the ARC to make it official.
Recently, the ARC have sprinkled their humor on apparel! That’s right, incredibly catchy and well designed (thanks Fraser) t-shirts which can be bought online here. We don’t mind spreading the love because if it means helping the ARC produce more entertainment, we’re all for it. This world needs more original content like this to inform, entertain and remind us of the blackness that the All Blacks bring forth.
Be sure to tune in to The Alternative Rugby Commentary for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup action as the Blackness takes on the Criminal Element later this year in Singapore and Australia. Jed will be sure to amp up the series and make it a good one. Looking forward to the new clips!