Reel Chicago is a daily digital magazine that covers the news in Chicago on all aspects of advertising, film, TV, media and production. The content is original, written by industry experts and contributing Op Eds
With profound sadness, Burrell Communications Group announces the sudden and untimely passing of one of the agency’s cornerstones. Linda Jefferson, senior vice president of Group Media Services, passed away last week after a short illness. Jefferson began her career with Burrell in 1984, and in her nearly 40-year tenure firmly established herself as a principal of … Continue reading “Linda Jefferson, senior vice president at Burrell has passed”
Burrell names Khari Streeter as its new Chief Creative Officer, effective immediately. In this role, Streeter will lead the agency’s dynamic, award-winning creative teams in developing the strategic, impactful work that is the agency’s hallmark. A respected leader, creative visionary, storyteller and filmmaker with three decades of experience, Streeter most recently served as executive vice … Continue reading “Burrell names Khari Streeter as new Chief Creative Officer”
Yesterday, Reel Chicago broke the story that award-winning Chief Creative Officer, Lewis Williams, had resigned from Burrell Communications. He will join Weber Shandwick as EVP, head of Brand Impact early next year. Terrence Burrell will take the helm as Interim Chief Creative Officer. In this role, Terrence will lead the agency’s creative teams in developing strategic … Continue reading “UPDATE: Burrell CCO Lewis Williams to join Weber Shandwick”
Burrell Communications recently returned to The Colonie, tapping the talents of editor Graham Chapman and the Chicago-based company’s design team for the multi-platform launch of ‘Black Experience on Xfinity’ (BEOX). The package of broadcast and social media spots introduces a first-of-its-kind collection of movies, TV shows news, and more celebrating Black culture. The campaign departs … Continue reading “Burrell taps The Colonie for ‘Black Experience on Xfinity’”
Burrell Communications Group announced today that it will honor its “golden anniversary” year by launching a new community engagement initiative, “50 Acts of Kindness.” Created in tribute to 50 years of connecting some of the world’s most powerful brands with Black communities, the agency pauses at this milestone to express gratitude to the people, clients … Continue reading “Burrell celebrates 50 Years of Black Storytelling”
The adventurous life awaits! “The Sienna Life” campaign, kicking off today, welcomes a refined and versatile minivan featuring bold design, available all-wheel drive, and enhanced fuel efficiency: the all-hybrid and all-new 2021 Toyota Sienna. The fully integrated campaign was developed against Toyota’s long-standing Total Toyota (T2) marketing model, fully considering the transcultural mainstream audiences across … Continue reading “Burrell spot for Toyota Sienna celebrates spontaneity”
Burrell Communications Group (BCG), a leading national agency specializing in multicultural communications reaching the Black consumer market, earned second place, Bronze Honors at the 2020 Telly Awards for the McDonald’s USA branded content series, The Road to Golden. Created in partnership with Urban One, the video series is part of McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden … Continue reading “Burrell wins Telly for McDonald’s “The Road to Golden””
Award-Winning Burrell Communications Group Taps ESPN/ABC News Correspondent Ryan Smith to Moderate Virtual Town Hall Event, “Black Lives Have Always Mattered to Us” Burrell Communications Group has announced that it will host a virtual town hall, “Black Lives Have Always Mattered to Us,” on Thursday, July 30 at 1 p.m. CT. Moderated by ESPN/ABC News correspondent Ryan Smith, the … Continue reading “Burrell taps ESPN’s Ryan Smith to moderate Town Hall”
Leading multicultural agency Burrell Communications Group has earned top industry honors from the American Advertising Federation – a Gold National “ADDY” for the Comcast/NBC Universal digital campaign, “Visions of King.” Launched to celebrate Martin Luther King Day, the VisionsOfKing.com platform featured an interactive digital mosaic of the legendary civil rights leader constructed with thousands of inspirational … Continue reading “Burrell wins Gold National ADDY and Publicis Cannes-Do”
Burrell Communications is showing their love for Girl Scout Cookies by supporting the organization’s new Virtual Cookie Booth. By posting a green square to their Instagram account, the agency is in solidarity with The Girl Scouts of America– and with the Scout’s relief efforts during COVID-19. When in-person cookie booths and door-to-door sales for the scouts … Continue reading “Burrell supports Girl Scouts’ Virtual Cookie Booth”
During her appearance on CBS’ Face the Nation earlier this month, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot told host Margaret Brennan while the novel coronavirus COVID-19 has impacted the United States in unthinkable ways, the virus has been “devastating” for black communities. This can be attributed in part to the underlying health conditions that disproportionately impact people … Continue reading “Burrell posts powerful COVID-19 video on IG”
Rebecca F. Williams, VP/Group Creative Director at Burrell Communications, joins the 2020 Reel Chicago Black List, a celebration of African-American creativity published during Black History Month. The Reel Chicago Black List includes Global Mixx founder Mary Datcher, McDonald’s US Marketing Director Lizette Williams, and filmmaker Rhyan LaMarr. To view the archives, click here. Rebecca F. … Continue reading “Rebecca F. Williams, VP/Group Creative Director, Burrell”
The exploits of the fun-loving fictional ‘Powell Family’ are featured in the engaging social media + broadcast campaign Burrell’s new multi-platform social media and broadcast campaign for Toyota centers around the fun-loving fictional Powell Family and ‘slice of life’ moments that inspire spontaneous family adventures enjoyed in the comfort of their 2018 Toyota Highlander. … Continue reading “Burrell, Colonie team up for new Toyota campaign”
Burrell Communications’ Love Lessons campaign for the Toyota Camry is more than just a marketing triumph. Created with the African American consumer in mind, it connects with anyone who has a thing for cars, music, humor, and romance. Consisting of nine videos that urge consumers to love the Camry “for all the wrong reasons,” the … Continue reading “The education featured in Burrell’s “Love Lessons””
Live action director and VFX supervisor Ergin Kuke joins The Mill+ Chicago Ergin Kuke will soon begin working his LA-honed, box office savvy as Creative Director for The Mill+ Chicago, according to a press release issued today. Kuke has notched an expansive variety of experience since relocating to the States from his native … Continue reading “The Mill, Burrell, Cow Lamp, Obamas, Wakanda news”
Burrell among Chicago shops on Ad Age’s annual A-list While some were out shopping for mattresses or watching Marvel’s Black Panther for a third time on President’s Day, Ad Age dropped its annual “A-List” issue of the best agencies, and some Chicago shops made the list. We’re not surprised. We’ve been covering them all year. … Continue reading ““A-List” Burrell, Russell Stover, Zapwater, box office”
Burrell Communications Group received 2017 “Supplier of the Year” honors from the American Association of Retired People (AARP) during a celebration at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Washington, D.C. on November 15. As multicultural agency of record for the nonprofit organization, the Michigan Ave. firm helps nearly twelve million people over the age of 50 … Continue reading “Burrell named AARP Supplier of the Year”
gyro promotes Hensley, Hill The Chicago office of gyro promoted two leaders to important new roles: Mike Hensley is now SVP-Strategic Planning and Chris Hill is president of gyro Chicago/Denver. Hensley has spent more than 35 years as a B2B agency leader. He has served as the national chairman of the BMA, is a recipient … Continue reading “Gyro, Burrell, Netflix in the news”
I never liked Tom Burrell that much. But to be honest I didn’t know Mr. Burrell (as I now affectionately call him) when I first moved to Chicago in August of 1994. All I really knew about him from my early days in advertising was that he was the guy who did all the Black … Continue reading “Getting to know Tom Burrell”
Although the Toyota Camry has traditionally been perceived as a “vanilla” kind of ride, the 2018 model’s bold look inspired a striking multi-channel campaign from several agencies, including Burrell Communications Group.
Titled, Strut, it highlights emotions as consumers become compelled to drive the new Toyota Camry for all the “wrong” reasons.
Confirming a story that broke on Reel Chicago.com last month, The One Club for Creativity, producers of the prestigious One Show Awards, ADC Annual Awards and Creative Week, today announced that it will indeed induct Burrell along with Rebeca Mndez, Susan Hoffman and David Lubars to the Creative Hall of Fame. Diane Cook-Tench will be named to the Educators Hall of Fame.
Iconic advertising pioneer, Tom Burrell, whose illustrious career transformed both the way people of color were portrayed in marketing communications, as well as their roles within the industry itself, will be inducted into The One Club Creative Hall of Fame on September 18.
Burrell joins Susan Hoffman, David Lubars, Rebeca Méndez and Diane Cook-Tench as honorees.
Face it, when you can point to the classic One Show Books as the reason you got into advertising, you can pretty much predict what’s going to happen in most spots.
If I haven’t just fast-forwarded by and actually stop to look, most of the time out of sheer horror, I can usually predict what line the person in the spot is going to say next.
Don’t worry advertising, I can do this for movies as well.
Hootenanny’s Nikki Vappenski helped Walmart set a new standard for Mother’s Day by editing a series of spots set to Bruno Mars’ hit song, “Just the Way You Are.”
Directed by Sasha Levinson and created by Chicago’s Burrell Communications and Houston’s Lopez Negrete Communications, the sixty-second version opens at the moment when a mother greets her toddler in the morning.
A montage follows, and the children appear to grow older in each new scene. Portraying love, pride and devotion, it forms a seamless tribute to motherhood in footage that plays like a dream.
While many car campaigns targeting African Americans skew toward adventures in urban settings, Toyota long-time multicultural agency, Burrell Communications, is showing audiences how to discover — or re-discover — the great outdoors.
Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign has hired Burrell Communications to assist in focusing on African American voters, targeting their concerns and issues as Clinton moves forward towards the first primary and caucus tests.
In the course of making “Good Things” — a 60-second McDonald’s spot that celebrates African American culture and forms part of the restaurant’s social space 365Black.com — Burrell Communication
While Tom Burrell was still in college in the early ‘60s aiming to fulfill his ambition for an advertising career, he worked in the mailroom at Wade Advertising, famous for the Alka-Seltzer account, one of a handful of African Americans at ad agencies and all in the mailroom.
A pair of Burrell Communications alums turned their talents to narrative film, producing the short “Raggedy Man,” a seasonal, lighthearted tale of a homeless man begging food in neighborhood diner, who catches the attention and eventually the heart of a beautiful woman.
Tom Burrell, who co-founded founded Burrell Advertising in 1971 and developed “positive realism” as a way of depicting African Americans using consumer products in an authentic and relevant manner, will be honored with the New York Festivals Hall of Fame Award, May 3.
Burrell Communications bested three other minority agencies to win an initial two-year, $6.4 million Illinois Lottery contract to provide advertising and PR targeted to African Americans. The contract provides for two one-year renewals.
Carol H. Williams Advertising, E. Morris Communications and Flowers Communications were the three other finalists in the review for an urban agency that began in February.
It seems odd that a French firm would poop on the party known as the Cannes International Festival of Creativity, but here we are.
According to an AdWeek report, a recent memo circulated within the Paris-based holding company Publicis announced that the firm’s 2018 cost cutting strategy will include “eliminating all award/trade shows for the next year.”
Presumably, the no-show declaration applies to Leo Burnett, Burrell Communications, Digitas and Lapiz, which are among the dozens of subsidiaries in the Publics network.
There will be no more gold…en arches for the Olympics as the fast food giant, effective immediately, has mutually parted ways with the IOC.
In a surprise move, McDonald’s Corp (Chicago agencies: We Are Unlimited and Burrell Communications) severed its 41-year-old alliance three years early. In a joint statement delivered June 16, the two organizations severed ties as the fast food giant continues to re-evaluate and focus on its core business. This, along with rising Olympic sponsorship costs and declining TV ratings, made for a combo platter of reasons for the separation.
The work of two Chicago agencies won the 16th ANA (Association of National Advertisers) Multicultural Excellence Awards, out of 33 nominees, at ceremonies Sunday in Los Angeles, climaxing the three day ANA oulticultural & Diversity conference.
McDonald’s and LimeGreen Moroch won the Grand Prize for two 30-second spots, “Slang” and “All Nighter,” and McDonald’s and IW Group of Hollywood won the Asian prize for the spot “Did you Eat Yet?”
The print prize went to Comcast Xfinity and Burrell Communications for two “Black History Month-The Next Greatest of All Time” ads.
After 10 years as a commercial and videogame music house, GameBeat Studios landed its first car commercial, an animated spot for Toyota Yaris and agency Burrell Communications. It will air in mid-January.
“We went for something that was very youthful, a bit techno, a bit electronica, funk and even a little house music style,” said Darryl Duncan, GameBeat owner/composer.
Three advertising veterans have formed a new branded entertainment company as a one-stop shop to create, produce and distribute content for proliferating new media outlets.
FranMar Entertainment, LLC is led by Colin Costello, formerly of Burrell Communications who teamed with Susanna Matukas, executive producer/director and Surita Mansukhani, music relationships and licensing.
9Rooftops welcomes Jason Uzarraga as an Associate Creative Director bringing over 20 years of experience in content development, video, design, experiential marketing and social and digital media to the role. Based in the Chicago office, Uzarraga has already begun providing forward-thinking creative solutions to meet the strategic needs of several 9Rooftops clients. He will play … Continue reading “9Rooftops welcomes Jason Uzarraga as Associate Creative Director”
McDonald’s has launched Future 22, a new creative campaign that celebrates the work of 22 young, gifted and Black leaders whose passion and talent are creating meaningful change in communities across the country. The integrated campaign by Burrell Communications starts today and will run through summer, featuring TV and radio spots voiced over by award-winning actress, … Continue reading “McDonald’s celebrates Black History with Future 22”
Nothing beats the satisfaction you get when things just work effortlessly, moving with you in complete harmony. Packing that pleasure into one flawlessly choreographed spot, Burrell Communications and In & Out Productions are showcasing Toyota’s new Corolla Cross – a vehicle in which everything feels ‘Just Right.’ Directed by Daniel Azancot, the musical masterpiece stars … Continue reading “Toyota’s Corolla Cross ad is a musical masterpiece that feels just right”
So, here we are at the end of another year. In 2021, we experienced more freedom from the pandemic during the spring and summer as cases lowered, but here we are, back in a kind of partial quarantine as the omicron variant spreads. While many businesses asked their teams to return to the office, advertising … Continue reading “The Best of Chicago Advertising in 2021”
Following a successful first year, ONE School, the groundbreaking free portfolio school for Black creatives, has opened applications for its Fall 2021 programs run out of Atlanta and Chicago. The results-oriented online program has already made a substantial contribution to adding diversity to the industry: six cohorts run out of Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and … Continue reading “ONE School opens applications for Fall in Chicago”
Over the next four years, McDonald’s and Owner/Operators are accelerating the allocation of advertising dollars to diverse-owned media companies, production houses and content creators. McDonald’s total investment in diverse-owned partners – including Black, Hispanic, Asian Pacific American, Women and LGBTQ-owned platforms – will more than double, moving from 4% to 10% of national advertising spend between 2021 … Continue reading “McDonald’s commits to diverse-owned production houses”
It’s hard to remember back in February 2020, when the Kansas City Chiefs bested the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV and Parasite was winning Best Picture, no one was talking about COVID, the election and Black Lives Matter. We had no idea we were only a few weeks and months away from all … Continue reading “2020 in Review: Top Chicago advertising campaigns”
Havas Chicago announces the appointment of two key executives to round out a dynamic and diverse leadership team with proven abilities to drive the agency’s future growth and success. Lilia Arroyo Flores joins Havas Chicago as chief strategy officer and Maisha Pearson joins as chief client officer. “At Havas Chicago, we’re focused on operating as … Continue reading “Havas Chicago bolsters Executive Leadership team”
In continuing recognition of Renetta McCann, chief inclusion experience officer at Publicis Groupe, whom the Chicago Advertising Federation (CAF) honored with its 25th Silver Medal Award earlier this year, advertising industry leaders kicked off a special, three-part virtual event last week to highlight McCann and her important role in the community. The CAF Legacy & Leadership Series … Continue reading “CAF Honors Renetta McCann of Publicis Groupe”
Jim Glover has worked for general market and black advertising agencies and his work has always been on the cutting edge, which many believe is why he has won so many accolades in the biz. Jim is now the founder, President, Creative Director/writer of MultiCultural Creative Consultants (MCC), author of the thriller novel, Mad Man and a … Continue reading “How did Blacks get into advertising anyway?”
When will what passes for ‘normal’ return? When will agencies be able to mount more traditional shoots? How does one make up for the missing synergy of the edit suite? And who’s missing lunch? These were some of the questions kicked around by the six Chicago agency executives from the creative and production ranks who … Continue reading “AICP takes ‘A Look Forward: Agency, Production & Post’”
AICP Midwest presents:A Look Forward Partners in Production: Agency, Production, Post Thursday, May 14, 20203pm CST via Zoom AICP panel discussion on navigating the road ahead when production resumes. AICP National Board Members/Moderators: Lisa Masseur, Executive Producer/Founder, Tessa Films, AICP Midwest Pres./National Board Craig Duncan, Managing Director, Cutters Studios, AICP National Board ALSO READ: AICP … Continue reading “AICP panel discussion on navigating the road ahead”
Jay Thomas, Account Director for Equator Design, joins the 2020 edition of Reel Chicago Black List, an annual celebration of African-American creativity published during Black History Month. The Reel Chicago Black List includes ‘The Chi’ cast member LaDonna Tittle, house music pioneer Vince Lawrence, and filmmaker Rhyan LaMarr. To view the archives, click here. JeWayne … Continue reading “Jay Thomas, marketing executive”
The Colonie continues to grow its roster of talent and services with the addition of Colorist Jennifer Gaida. The hiring of the creative and technically savvy talent marks the launch of the Chicago-based company’s new color grading division, rounding out the one-stop editing, design, and postproduction boutique’s full-roster of high-end services and talent. Gaida exited … Continue reading “Colorist Jennifer Gaida makes The Colonie a one-stop shop”
The Chicago Advertising Federation’s Summer Diversity Mixer celebrates a wave of the future that’s been here all along Besides motivating consumers, increasing social impact, and moving the nation forward, diversity is fun. It makes people happy to get along. When combined with food, drink, and music, it becomes the Chicago Advertising Federation’s Summer Diversity Mixer. … Continue reading “Chicago creative industry celebrates diversity”
Three days of free panels and concerts under the stars in the greatest city on earth The Chicago House Music Conference will offer free industry workshops and panel talks at the Chicago Culture Center on May 23, followed by the festival in Millennium Park on May 24 and 25. Produced by the Department of Cultural … Continue reading “Chicago House Music Conference & Festival”
An industry group discussion helps launch a new chapter on diversity and inclusion in advertising Cramer Krasselt’s Changing the Narrative panel discussion on February 26 was a journey into the complexities of being Black in America. For nearly an hour, Burrell Communications Chief Creative Officer Lewis Williams, Inclusion Nation Founder Michelle Silverthorn, Creative Consultant Mark-Anthony … Continue reading “Cramer Krasselt panel talks about “Changing the Narrative””
Female football scholarship winner Antoinette “Toni” Harris redefines what it means to be a hybrid in new RAV4 spot Toyota returns to the 2019 Super Bowl with a spotlight on two game-changers – the all-new 2019 RAV4 HV (RAV4 Hybrid) and powerhouse female football player Antoinette “Toni” Harris. The Super Bowl spot, which will appear … Continue reading “Toyota changes the game in Super Bowl LIII commercial”
Talented “game-changer” has spent the past five years growing within the Chicago company’s ranks The Colonie has announced that Graham Chapman has been promoted to editor, continuing the Chicago-based postproduction company’s long tradition of nurturing extraordinary young talent and developing its next generation of editors from within. Chapman joined The Colonie in 2013 as an … Continue reading “Graham Chapman promoted to Editor at The Colonie”
Franklin will be honored at a ceremony held in the fall (Chicago — 28 June 2018) The Chicago Advertising Federation is proud to announce that Esther “E.T.” Franklin, Executive Vice President, Managing Director of Strategy and Cultural Fluency, Spark Foundry, has been selected as its 2018 Advertising Woman of the Year. This … Continue reading “Esther Franklin named Ad Woman of the Year”
AdWeek recently listed Lewis Williams, Chief Creative Officer of Burrell Communications Group, on the 2018 Creative 100 List. Honored for his leadership in developing first-class collaborations to produce award-winning campaigns, Lewis Williams is recognized amongst notable leaders in advertising, entertainment and art, both locally and abroad. Other creatives listed include acclaimed filmmaker, Ava Duvernay, rapper … Continue reading “Lewis Williams named to AdWeek’s Creative 100 List”
For your viewing pleasure, here’s a collection of inspiring spots and trailers that got Reel Chicago’s attention. McDonald’s Agency: Burrell Communications Nothing really spectacular happens in this new breakfast spot for the fast food giant’s Sausage, Egg and Cheese McGriddles, but it just leaves you with a warm feeling as son hustles to meet … Continue reading “New creative to get your week going — 05.08.18”
Chicago — 30 April 2018) The Chicago Advertising Federation (CAF) awarded Fay Ferguson, Co-CEO of Burrell Communications Group, as the 2017 Silver Medal Award recipient. Fay is the first African-American woman and 22nd professional to receive the award. Nominated for outstanding service in the industry, both locally and abroad, Fay is among an elite group … Continue reading “Ferguson is CAF’s 1st African American Silver Medalist”
Jeff Morrow is an accomplished singer, vocal producer, voice-over artist, arranger, voice coach and contractor. He is currently the vocal producer for the hit Fox TV show Empire. This past summer he worked as the vocal contractor and toured with Aretha Franklin. He has worked with Stevie Wonder, R. Kelly, Janelle Monae, Michael Bolton, Celine … Continue reading “The Reel Black List: Jeff Morrow, Vocal Music Producer”
Nathalynne McGinnis’ positive attitude and deep experience make her a joy to work with, and she is well respected in the industry. She is currently a freelance senior business affairs manager at Ogilvy/Chicago, but maintains her love of producing. Nathalynne began her career in the general advertising world at FCB/Chicago. She rose through the ranks … Continue reading “The Reel Black List: Nathalynne McGinnis, Producer”
“There is no better story than life itself.” Lewis is a passionate, award winning creative leader and storyteller with extensive experience in total, ethnic and multicultural marketing. As a thinker across all platforms, digital and traditional, he thrives for both breakthrough and effective solutions. During his career he has created work for major brands such … Continue reading “The Reel Black List: Lewis Williams, Creative Leader”
CAF honors Burrell’s Fay Ferguson Burrell Communications tweeted that The Chicago Advertising Federation (CAF) named agency Co-CEO, Fay Ferguson, as the 2017 Silver Medal Award winner. Ferguson is the 22nd professional to receive the prestigious award. Nominated for her outstanding service in the advertising industry both locally and abroad, Fay is among an elite group … Continue reading “Fay Ferguson, Urban Grind, The Avengers, Apple”
As you undoubtedly know, “Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice,” one of 2016’s most anticipated films – produced for a stunning $410 million — opens globally at theaters today.
Chicago is no stranger to the DC Universe, having first doubled as Gotham, in 2005’s “Batman Begins” and 2008’s “The Dark Knight,” and then morphing into Metropolis in 2013’s “Man of Steel.”
FCB CHICAGO continues to increase its creative assets with the VP/creative director team of copywriter Kathleen Waille and art director Marisa Groenweghe rejoining the agency from nine years at DDB Chicago.
If you have “slightly worn women’s clothes” hiding in the back of your closet, now is the time to swoop them up and donate them to the 5th annual Pink October Breast Cancer Wardrobe Swap, on Thursday, Oct. 22, 5:30-8:30 p.m. at new 4K post house Conspiracy in the West Loop.
The advertising community gave generously to the Off the Street Club Holiday Luncheon, as demonstrated by their record-breaking contributions of over $570,000 raised exclusively through the annual sell-out event attended by 760 guests Dec. 4 at the Swissotel.
Donations are expected to continue pour in through the holidays.
Agency organizers of the Off the Street Club’s Holiday Luncheon Dec. 4 at the Swissotel anticipate raising $500,000 to sustain OSTC for the year ahead. With 19 agencies currently behind it, 1,000 guests, revenue from $10,000 prize raffle, a silent auction and donations – they’re confident of reaching their goal.
ONE AT OPTIMUS has boosted its directors’ roster to 11 with the addition of a trio of award-winning directors. They are LA-based Danny J. Boyle and Ben Chappell, both known to Chicago clients through past associations, and director/photographer Ben Fink of New York.
The first conference devoted to trends and opportunities to reach African American audiences takes place Monday, July 21, with presentations and panels of individuals and companies on the cutting edge of successful targeted programs.
Black History Month is an appropriate time to ask, “What happened to black advertising agencies in Chicago?” These were the shops owned and operated by African Americans, whose staffs were black and who created national advertising targeted to “the urban market.”
DDB and Leo Burnett aren’t rival agencies any more. They will become sister companies in the merger of their respective parent companies, Omnicom Group and Publicis Groupe, which will create Omnicom Publicis Group, the biggest advertising firm on the planet.
The new global conglomerate, worth $35.1 billion, will have some 5,000 offices operating in more than 100 countries on five continents and employ 130,000 people.
ADMAN AND SCREENWRITER COLIN COSTELLO is starting the New Year in a big way. His new home base as of Jan. 8 will be Los Angeles, where he will continue to build on his successes as a comedy screenwriter over the past 10 years and use his advertising copywriting skills freelancing for an L.A. agency.
“I know there were false alarms about moving before, but this time I know it’s the right move for me. I was told earlier this year that I used to take risks and I didn’t anymore. Well here we go. I’m taking the mother of all risks for 2013.”
THREE OF CARLO TREVISO’S Veteran Pictures Studio’s shorts will screen at Chicon 7, the 70th World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon), that will bring 5,000 attendees from 30 countries to the Hyatt Regency Chicago from Aug. 30 to Sept. 3.
THE ILLINOIS FILM OFFICE hired seasoned location scout Raul Esparza as assistant managing director/location manager, replacing Todd Lizak who officially retired in January. He was asked to return to the IFO as a 75 day contractual employee to help interview prospective candidates for the vacancy and handle location scouting until his successor was hired.
Composer/producer John Ovnik has gone from solo to duo for the first time since he started Deaf Dog Music 18 years ago, by forming a creative partnership with his long-time friend, composer/producer Eric Sproull, who had been a producer/composer with Earhole recording.
KELSEY GRAMMER WAS VISIBLY SURPRISED at winning a Golden Globe for “best lead actor in a TV series” for “Boss” was a surprise to him – after all, he was up against stiff competition – but not to fans of Starz gritty Chicago-set series “Boss.”
Grammer, who co-produces the show, thanked Starz’ bosses for greenlighting the series without a pilot. This is Grammer’s fourth Globe to go along with his three Emmys.
“Boss’” second 8-episode series starts shooting March 5 at Cinestage studios, with hopefully many more to follow.
CRITICAL REVIEWS of the debut episode of the Chicago-set NBC series The Playboy Club were, to say the least, disappointing. It attracted a painfully low 1.6/4 rating in the 18-49 demographics, which translated to a 5 million viewers.
In Playboy Club’s defense, it was a tough night for series’ openers with heavy competition from other networks’ new series’ openers and popular established shows.
The multibillion dollar Hip Hop industry is thriving. An entrepreneur who plays his cards right can hit the jackpot. Hopefully, he will share that wealth with his community.
That’s the message that will be conveyed June 21 at the Hip Hop Summit sponsored by Rainbow Push at the Chicago Hilton & Towers.
John Mitchell, Rainbow Push’s chief of staff, expects entrepreneurs between age 18 and 35, who are trying to break into hip hop, to attend.
Giannini Creative has pooled its resources with Filmworkers Club, giving agencies the convenience of working with a single creative partner across multiple media platforms.
The company has a full-time staff of 10 of the top advertising artists in the country and specializes in creative retouching, CGI for print, character development, animation, illustration and pre-media.
A “PUBLIC ENEMIES” PRESS JUNKET by Universal Studios is scheduled for June 18 in Chicago, with the conference to be held at Union Station, we hear. A full complement of stars, including Johnny Depp and Christian Bale, are expected. There’s also buzz about a possible Chicago premiere of the movie, which is as it should be, right?
“Public Enemies” spent $25 million in Chicago and other parts of the state last year, filming the blockbuster crime thriller directed by Chicago native Michael Mann.
“NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET” began shooting last week at Elk Grove high school in that suburb, moving onto Hersey high in Arlington Heights. “Elm Street” producers cleverly gained the ability to move around to different high schools after signing a contract with Illinois School District 214.
District 214 covers Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows and Wheeling.
WHO WILL THE LOTTERY PICK to be its multicultural ad agency? The three worthy contenders are Carol H.
After CD/art director Tony Williams took a hit when the agency with which he had partnered lost its major account, he reinvented his traditional Gavan agency as a creative boutique focusing on new media projects for small companies.
By adding “urban appeal” to the mix, his business has rebounded quite profitably for these difficult times.
Gavan was just underway as a traditional boutique when “we put all our eggs in one basket,” Williams says, by teaming with R. J. Dale Advertising and Public Relations in pursuit of the Illinois Lottery’s $105 million account.
ACTRESS HELEN HUNT was in Chicago last weekend with Chelsea Pictures/L.A. to direct a 60-second spot for Frito-Lay’s new TrueNorth healthy snack brand that will air on the Oscars’ Feb. 22 telecast.
TrueNorth launched a consumer contest last summer for stories that described how they or someone they know had the pursuit of their life’s passion. The winner, out of 2,300 entries, will be featured in a spot and receive a cash prize of $25,000.
The Oscars’ spot will kick off the brand’s 2009 ad campaign which will highlight real people who pursued their life’s passion.
“PRISON BREAK” has broken through the ratings so strongly that Fox TV has given the go-ahead for nine more episodes for a total of 22. The producers are no less thrilled than all the locals benefiting from the business.
Break” is the first TV creation of producer Paul Scheuring, a feature screenwriter.
THE FOUNDATION post house expanded this week by moving into a full, 6,000-sq. ft. floor with seven editing rooms at 200 E. Ohio, from 2,800-sq. ft. and four editing rooms in the same building. That’s mighty impressive for being in business for just 18 months.
Owned by ace editor James Lipetzky and his wife, Samantha Hart The Foundation employs 10.
COLIN COSTELLO’S COMEDY sitcom pilot, “Friends like These,” was picked up by Black Family Channel’s new show, “Pilot Central,” debuting in October or November.
WARNER BROS. SETS MAJOR FEATURE IN CHICAGO. A remake of a Korean movie now called “Il Mare” (“The Sea”) will start shooting in mid-March and is expected to be here for four months. Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves star; Argentinean Alejandro Agresti directs. Location is a house presently being built on a lake in the Forest Preserves.
Chicago native David Auburn (“Proof”) scripted the story for Chicago. Production designer is Matthew Crowley. Production headquarters are located in the Sofitel Hotel.
The Chicago production family was stunned and saddened to learn that 44-year-old Producer and Post-Production Supervisor, Katie Hoban passed away suddenly at the beginning of this month, on January 4, 2022. Katie was the daughter of Kathleen Johnston and Michael Hoban. Adjectives that come to mind when describing Hoban are “lovely and spirited,” “a positive … Continue reading “Memorial services for producer Katie Hoban today”
9Rooftops recently welcomed Derrick Rivers as VP + Creative Director. Rivers brings over 15 years of experience across several service accounts and categories, in both the general and multicultural segments. Rivers has already proven to be a valuable addition to the agency, working to bring creative solutions to life for several 9Rooftops clients. As a commercial artist … Continue reading “9Rooftops welcomes Derrick Rivers as VP + Creative Director”
Editor’s Note: In 2020, the world changed right before our very eyes. Ad agencies, production companies and post houses were forced to adapt and begin a “new normal” working, living, exercising and entertaining out of home. Now that we have just entered 2021, we asked around our industry friends to reflect back on the year and … Continue reading “2020 in Review: Mary Caddy of The Colonie”
Congratulations to our friends at Leo Burnett and mcgarrybowen. Each agency took home three Gold statues from the American Advertising Awards which were announced April 28 virtually. Oh, and the agency at 35 West Wacker also took home “Agency of the Year.” Well done. Both agencies also took home awards in the “Best of” categories. … Continue reading “Burnett wins Agency of the Year from AAA”
In response to COVID-19, Cox Communications and FCB Chicago have created a 360-campaign (including TV, print, digital, social and OOH) designed to empower and support small business owners who are #MakingItWork. The campaign messaging focuses on making the new way of working work better for Cox Business customers. Rather than using the tactics in this campaign to promote … Continue reading “Cox, FCB support small biz owners in new 360 campaign”
The bitter rivalry between DDB vs. Burnett. Publicis vs. Omnicom. Keith vs. Leo, for the billion dollar prize, brought to us by McDonald’s, with a cast of bleary-eyed creatives caught in between, has ended.
The winner, as we all know, is Omnicom and DDB, meaning for the first time in 35 years everything on the menu is going to be served up by one yet-to-be-created agency.
This wouldn’t be the first time DDB started an agency for a single client, having successfully launched Element 79 in 2001 for Quaker Oats.
At the American Advertising Federation 2016 ADDY Awards last Wednesday night, Energy BBDO was the top winner with a record-setting 93 awards topped by earning the Best in Show for a Ziploc plastic bags poster campaign.
Perhaps the Chicago Ad Federation, host of the annual Addy Awards, will be inspired to change the name of the Addys to “The Leos,” considering that three Publicis-owned agencies captured a monstrous, record-setting 80% of the awards presented March 11 at the Museum of Broadcast Communications.
THE FORMER ADDY AWARDS, recently rebranded as the more businesslike Chicago American Advertising Awards, take place Thursday, March 13 at a reception honoring the best of Chicago advertising, plus the Agency of the Year and the Client of the Year, at the Museum of Broadcast Advertising.
Sunday’s announcement about New York-based Omnicom and Paris-headquartered Publicis Groupe intention to create the world’s largest advertising firm had the global adworld reeling, and quick to respond with many positive, skeptical and probing takes on the seismic news.
Chicago’s ad/production community is also voicing its thoughts on how the pending gigantic, $35 billion holding company will/won’t affect them.
After a recent pitch to important arts funders, the participating filmmakers of the first Diverse Voices in Documentaries program felt confident their previous six months of special training would result in completion funding and television distribution of their films.
The Chicago Ad Federation boasted it had 350 submissions for the recent ADDY Awards from local agencies and those entries were carefully considered by 25 top creatives from national pedigreed agencies.
As a result of all this vetting, and no doubt based on the sheer volume of entries from Leo Burnett, it should have been no surprise that the Publicis giant had a colossal haul of 62 awards, including six out of the seven ADDY Bests.
October traditionally is the most eventfully-active month of the year as our calendar proves. We will continue to add events as quickly as they announced so, as they say, “stay tuned.”
The Chicago Advertising Federation will bestow its prestigious Silver Medal Award upon Bob Scarpelli for his 27 years of dedication to the Chicago advertising community.
Scarpelli, DDB Chicago chairman and DDB U.S. chief creative officer, will receive the award a June 1 dinner at the Cadillac Club at Soldier Field where at least 250 guests are expected.
