Actor, writer, and director James Franco has been chosen as the model for Gucci's new 2013-2014 Autumn/Winter eyewear campaign. The campaign will be released worldwide in August. The images were shot by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott, a photography duo known for numerous brand advertisements. They are featured in the May issue of Commercial Photo. Franco, known for his work in films such as the Spider-Man series and Spring Breakers, has a strong connection with Gucci, having appeared as a model for the brand's fragrance campaign in 2008 and its custom-made service in 2011. He wore a custom-made Gucci suit when he hosted the Academy Awards in 2010, and also wore a Gucci suit at the ceremony in March of this year when he was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In this ad, Franco wears the new "Black Bamboo" sunglasses. The design is an evolution of the "Classic Bamboo Collection" released in Spring/Summer 2013, featuring bamboo detailing on the bridge, mirrored lenses, and a '70s-inspired pilot-shaped metal frame. The sunglasses are priced at ¥64,050 and are scheduled to be released from October onward. A video showing the Black Bamboo manufacturing process has also been released, showcasing the technology of the Safilo Group, which produces Gucci eyewear.
