Tempered

The Challenge

Dandelion Chocolate, known for its meticulous, two-ingredient, single-origin chocolate, wanted to create a piece that would bridge the gap between price point and perceived value—without relying on overt advertising.

Their products are handcrafted in San Francisco, from bean to bar, and their emphasis on transparency and education sets them apart. Yet for many potential customers, these differentiators weren’t visible at a glance.

Rather than a product-focused commercial, the team at Dandelion sought a story-forward piece—something cinematic and meaningful—that could introduce people to the soul of the brand through a single, memorable figure. Enter Stephen Durfee.

The Approach

Tempered follows a day in the life of Stephen Durfee, Dandelion’s Head of Experiences. A former pastry chef at The French Laundry and a longtime instructor at the Culinary Institute of America, Stephen could work anywhere. Instead, he chooses to bike through San Francisco after a ferry from Vallejo, after a drive from Napa, each day—because he believes in what Dandelion stands for.

The documentary is paced like his commute: deliberate, contemplative, and quietly filled with meaning. We follow Stephen as he preps for classes, hosts experiences, and reflects on what makes this work worthwhile.

By framing Stephen not as a brand spokesperson but as a full human being—a teacher, craftsman, and seeker of joy—we allowed the values of Dandelion Chocolate to emerge naturally: integrity, transparency, artistry, and community.

Rather than make a pitch, Tempered creates a feeling. It invites viewers to linger in Dandelion’s world, observe the chocolate-making process firsthand, and leave with a deeper understanding of what sets the brand apart.

The Impact

While distribution is ongoing, Tempered was crafted to play multiple roles: a brand-building centerpiece for Dandelion’s storytelling efforts, a calling card for in-person experiences, and a top-of-funnel entry point for new audiences.

• Brand Positioning: Highlights the care, process, and ethos behind the chocolate—justifying the premium without having to explain it.
• Emotional Connection: Builds brand affinity through character-driven narrative, not calls to action.
• Sales Enablement: Supports Dandelion’s marketing, retail, and experiential teams by anchoring messaging in a singular, memorable story.
• Longevity & Versatility: Structured for film festivals, community screenings, and cutdowns across social media, Tempered is designed to stay relevant and resonant over time.
  

Ultimately, this is a model for how branded storytelling can feel cinematic, grounded, and generous—while still delivering business value.

Production Company: Graphite Productions

Director, Editor, Bike Camera Op: Colt Bradley

Director of Photography: Tommy Beal

Sound & Mix: PJ Shulsky

PA and BTS Stills: Brent Jonson

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