| Reel Chicago – At the intersection of Chicago Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production
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
Chicago-area Phase Three Brewing Company and Affy Tapple announced this week that they have joined forces to create a new craft beer, A Bushel of Apples. The beer harnesses the flavor of an Affy Tapple Original Peanut Caramel Apple, offering an inventive way for craft beer and Affy Tapple fans alike to enjoy the taste of this classic fall … Continue reading “Affy Tapple + Phase Three Brewing = Affy Tapple Beer”
Jack Daniel’s spot encourages whiskey drinkers to enjoy sweet new flavor with bold confidence FCB Chicago helped launch Tennessee Apple with a rocking trip through infinity. According to an agency press release, the sweet new Jack Daniel’s variety garnered an “overwhelmingly positive” reception when it landed on shelves around the nation earlier this month. Moving … Continue reading “FCB Chicago sends Tennessee Apple through infinity”
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”
What should be an individual’s right to data privacy? When we live in what has become a wildly interconnected existence, what should anyone expect when it comes to the privacy of your personal information?
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LEO BURNETT! When Leo Burnett opened his new advertising agency on August 5, 1935, during the Great Depression, he brightened the office with a bowl of red apples. A newspaper columnist wrote that it wouldn’t be long before Burnett started selling apples on the street rather than giving them away.
Leo Burnett, the agency whose signature was big bowls of apples that greeted guests, has hired a Big Apple creative star and modern Peggy Olsen story as its chief creative officer.
Susan Credle joins the Publicis Groupe-owned agency Oct. 5 after 24 years at BBDO, New York, the last 10 as its high profile EVP/executive creative director.
She was hired after an eight month aggressive internal and external search to succeed John Condon, who left the agency last February.
At Burnett, she will oversee the creative output at both the agency and its Arc Worldwide subsidiary.
I believe that editing software advances are still possible, but most of them will not affect the average one-man-band editor.
Other than interface improvements, I don’t see many new products that will excite the video community. Many of the great new features promoted in Final Cut in the last few years have been available in other software for a long time.
I believe Apple will remain committed to FCP. As someone else once said, it’s the $1.600 editing package that requires a $3,000 dongle.
VETERAN COLORIST BOB SLIGA was snapped up by Apple Computers and is now working for the computer giant in Cupertino, Calif. He heads up Apple’s 2K Final Touch color correction software.
Sliga had become a specialist in the software, which Apple purchased from Silicon Color a few months go. He had freelanced for the past 18 months, after a lengthy stint as Film& Tape Works’ colorist.
A THIRD DI ROOM is in the works by a hush-hush group of post veterans, to be completed this month.
SOLdesignfx worked its magic by placing a celebrity chef in virtual sets in two Applebee’s spots for Draft/FCB Group.
In one spot, the team designed a kitchen around chef and author Tyler Florence, and then transformed it into a restaurant where his dish is ready to be served.
Come Dec. 14 Styx fans will see a locally-produced streaming video of the great band playing the Beatles’ “I am the Walrus” over Apple’s iTunes Web site.
Director Steven A. Jones and music producer Ken Hale of What the Hale Music, who had previously produced Styx music videos and motion backgrounds for tour projection, produced the “Walrus” music video.
Six filmmakers who have created films on Macs and edited on Final Cut Pro will be featured in a new Film Week program of shorts, July 19-23, in the theater at The Apple Store at 679 N. Michigan Ave.
The films, ranging in length from 10 minutes to more than an hour, were made by directors Gary Adcock, Dave Skwarczek, John Borowski, Steve Ordower, Tom Trinley and editor Billy Sheahan, who will field questions after the screening of their films. As a bonus, Roger Ebert will discuss the revolution of digital cameras during Film Week.
Filmed in Chicago, 4400 series premiere, titled Past Is Prologue, airs on Monday, October 25, at 8 PM CST on The CW. The original The 4400 series ran for 4 years and 44 episodes and was cancelled in December 2007, reportedly due to low ratings, budget costs, and the ongoing Writers Guild strike at the … Continue reading “4400 series premiere promo and official synopsis of first episode”
Chicago filmmakers release the Indie crime drama feature, The Cleaner. Distributed by 1091 Pictures, the story follows a middle-aged house cleaner who gets caught up in a violent crime after being hired to locate a client’s estranged son. The Cleaner stars King Orba (DC’s Stargirl), Shelley Long (Modern Family), Shiloh Fernandez (Burn), Luke Wilson (Old … Continue reading “Chicago filmmakers release crime drama/mystery ‘The Cleaner’”
Our predictions on Reel 360 became a reality as Apple TV+’s Ted Lasso, one of the most hilarious shows on television, took home seven Emmys after being nominated for an impressive 20 awards. The series won best comedy after Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham and Brett Goldstein all scored acting accolades. This broke the record for … Continue reading “Jason Sudeikis gives a shout out to Chicago in Emmy acceptance speech”
The Chicago International Film Festival announced the full lineup of its 57th edition, running October 13 – 24, 2021. This year’s Festival expands across the City, with screenings at AMC River East 21, Music Box Theatre, Gene Siskel Film Center, drive-in screenings at ChiTown Movies in Pilsen, and neighborhood pop-up screenings at Bronzeville’s historic Parkway … Continue reading “Chicago International Film Festival announces full lineup of 57th edition”
STARBURST announced its latest innovation, STARBURST Airs – a next generation aerated gummi candy that will begin hitting shelves this fall. Different from your typical gummi candy, STARBURST Airs feature a new, inflated texture resulting in a bouncy gummi with all the flavor of the STARBURST you know and love. They are where original STARBURST candy meets … Continue reading “Mars Wrigley aerated gummies STARBURST Airs”
PodcastOne announced that it has signed retired NFL Pro Bowl Quarterback Jay Cutler for an exclusive podcast and vodcast series called Uncut with Jay Cutler. Cutler is a former NFL Pro Bowl quarterback who played for 12 seasons, primarily with the Bears, Broncos, and Dolphins. Launching August 25, 2021 via PodcastOne’s SportsNet, Uncut with Jay Cutler‘s upcoming guests include Country music star … Continue reading “PodcastOne scores NFL quarterback Jay Cutler for podcast series”
The long wait could be over. In an announcement today, Kanye West may actually debut DONDA in his hometown. Kanye has announced a third DONDA listening session. This one is taking place in his hometown of Chicago, at Soldier Field, on August 26. West uploaded a text post to his Instagram page this afternoon, reading “DONDA SOLDIER FIELD 8 … Continue reading “Kanye West comes home for DONDA debut at Soldiers Field 8 26 21”
It was like a scene out of a movie, as Kevin Costner welcomed the Chicago White Sox and NY Yankees who entered the field to play in the MLB at Field of Dreams through the same Iowa cornfield that was featured in the blockbuster movie. Major League Baseball hosted the game, featuring the Yankees playing … Continue reading “Baseball history is made as Sox play the Yankees at the Field of Dreams”
New limited-edition SKITTLES Shriekers are hitting shelves nationwide, shocking taste buds around the country with a frightfully sour flavor. Hidden inside each pack of Shriekers are super-sour SKITTLES that appear to look like the rest yet bring an unpredictable punch of sour flavor to make even the most fearless candy fan quite literally shriek. Just … Continue reading “Mars Wrigley treats fans to limited-edition SKITTLES for Halloween”
70,000 rubber ducks are about to splash into the Chicago River off the Columbus Bridge for the 2021 Chicago Ducky Derby presented by Jewel-Osco to benefit Special Olympics Illinois. Rubber ducks are available for adoption for $5 online at www.chicagoduckyderby.com and in person on race day beginning at 9 a.m. at 401 N. Michigan Avenue. Sales close prior to Splashdown on … Continue reading “70,000 rubber ducks will splash into the Chicago River on Aug. 5”
Commercial and digital content production company Explore announces the addition of Jane Chow to their roster for representation, directing commercials and digital content across all mediums. Born in Hong Kong, Jane first learned English by absorbing herself in streaming and internet culture. She used her self-taught editing & color grading creativity to gain over 500,000 … Continue reading “Explore welcomes director Jane Chow to roster”
Grammy Award winner and Emmy nominee Phillipa Soo has joined the cast of Apple TV Plus’ Shining Girls, a metaphysical thriller based on the 2013 novel by Lauren Beukes. Soo will be starring as the intelligent and sure-footed Jin-Sook, who does research at the Adler planetarium, Soo joins previously announced cast members Elisabeth Moss, Wagner … Continue reading “Phillipa Soo joins Elisabeth Moss in cast of The Shining Girls”
Mic performance tips from an engineer, Dave Kresl on how to get better in the studio. So we have selected a microphone and set up a home studio, now what? Well get to cranking out auditions and recordings! One of the best outcomes from doing a lot of them is that your microphone technique gets … Continue reading “We can’t be Prince… but we can learn to work the mic”
The 11th Annual Blue Whiskey Independent Film Festival (BWiFF) returns this weekend with nightly screenings of the festival’s 2021 official selection films running July 24-30 at Chicago Filmmakers (1326 W. Hollywood Avenue, Chicago). Blue Whiskey will present over 30 films with character-driven stories from around the globe during the in-person event, including seven outstanding indie films made … Continue reading “Annual Blue Whiskey Film Festival opens this weekend”
Design visionaries Erin Sarofsky and Austin Shaw are launching Between the Keyframes vidcast covering the craft and culture of motion design, and it will be hosted by these two formidable experts in the motion design industry. Austin literally wrote the book on motion design (“Design for Motion: Fundamentals and Techniques of Motion Design,” Routledge, 2nd … Continue reading “Between the Keyframes with Erin Sarofsky & Austin Shaw”
Both Adweek and Ad Age are reporting that DDB North American CCO Britt Nolan is rejoining Leo Burnett Chicago as president and CCO, almost exactly two years to the day he left. According to the reports, Nolan will oversee the creative output and manage the Chicago office while supporting the global Leo Burnett network. He … Continue reading “Britt Nolan leaves DDB, returns to Burnett”
Wolf Entertainment, which produces all three One Chicago shows, has announced On Call, a new half-hour drama will air exclusively on Amazon’s IMDb TV. The series follows a rookie and veteran police officer on patrol in Long Beach, CA with each episode tracking the duo as they respond to a new radio call, arriving on … Continue reading “Wolf Entertainment’s On Call will air exclusively on IMDB”
Cinematographer Alice Brooks discusses using DXL2 and G Series anamorphics to craft a big look for director Jon M. Chu’s musical In the Heights. In 2002, when cinematographer Alice Brooks and director Jon M. Chu were still film students at the University of Southern California, they partnered for the short When the Kids Are Away, a musical … Continue reading “‘In the Heights’ DP Alice Brooks talks crafting a big look”
The beloved Babybel characters are back, and this time with superpowers. Directed by Carbon’s Liam Chapple and produced at Carbon for Havas, the ‘Introducing Babybel Plus+’ campaign launches the brand’s new Plus+ Vitamins and Probiotic range. From commercials to social media cuteness, the campaign features mini heroes with super strength! “When we first saw … Continue reading “Carbon creates Babybel Plus+ launch films for Havas”
Television has provided much-needed escapism for many of us during the pandemic, allowing us to get lost in the fictional worlds of American dramas, homegrown soaps and nostalgic classics. But if TV land’s best-known towns were real, which would be the best and worst ones to live in? Entertainment experts MrQ analyzed thousands of television … Continue reading “Study reveals the best and worst fictional towns on TV”
To celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community SKITTLES is teaming up with critically acclaimed historian, author, educator and influencer, Blair Imani, to promote LGBTQ+ visibility, spotlighting artists, influencers and creators through the SKITTLES QueeR Codes program in cities across the U.S. and at SKITTLESQueerCodes.com. The program includes partnerships with four LGBTQ+ artists across the country who … Continue reading “Mars Wrigley develops QueeR Codes during Pride Month”
As we say goodbye to our favorite heroes from One Chicago for the summer, it’s fun to look back on all the amazing TV shows set in the Windy City over the years. Chicago has been a production powerhouse for decades and has given us some of the best movies and TV shows that were … Continue reading “Our Top 10 list of the best TV shows set in Chicago”
If you’re a fan of Showtime’s The Chi , then you are very aware of track-suit wearing, bluetooth earpiece toting, baby daddy of Emmett, Darnell. Since joining in Season 2, veteran actor Rolando Boyce has played the colorful, always-loaded-with-an-opinion character, with a mixture of genuineness, heart and comedy. Boyce is no stranger to the South Side … Continue reading “Going South Side with Rolando Boyce of ‘The Chi’”
SHOWTIME released the official trailer for the fourth season of the Chicago hit drama series THE CHI. Created and executive produced by Emmy winner Lena Waithe and executive produced by Academy Award, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Common, THE CHI returns on Sunday, May 23 at 8 p.m. THE CHI is a timely coming-of-age story centering on a group of residents … Continue reading “Official trailer for THE CHI 4th season premiere Sunday”
Havas Chicago has announced the appointment of Myra Nussbaum as chief creative officer – the first female CCO in Havas’ North American network. Nussbaum brings more than 15 years’ experience making work that moves at the speed of culture based in the philosophy that creating a strong, simple message has the power to break through … Continue reading “Havas Chicago appoints Myra Nussbaum first female CCO”
Cameras are set to roll next month on the new Apple series The Shining Girls starring Emmy Award winner Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men, The Invisble Man), for its streaming service. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way is set to produce. Described by Los Angeles-based MRC Entertainment as “a metaphysical thriller,” and not to be confused with the … Continue reading “Handmaid Tale’s Moss to shoot new series in Chicago”
Catalina Crunch, America’s fastest growing keto-friendly cereal and snack brand, announced a partnership with Gopuff, the go-to platform for consumers’ everyday needs, to offer its Keto-Friendly Cereals to customers throughout a number of select cities including Chicago, Dallas, Austin and Minneapolis/St. Paul. Now, customers can order the brand’s four most popular flavors – Cinnamon Toast, … Continue reading “Catalina Snacks Keto-friendly cereals uses Gopuff delivery”
As creators of premium storytelling content for brands and for the entertainment industry, Owner and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky and her fellow makers at one-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky are extremely proud to announce the company’s rebrand, as brought to life in its redesigned and reimagined website: sarofsky.com. The rebrand was led by Erin, along … Continue reading “Sarofsky dives deep to celebrate its craft”
To expand meal occasions for its iconic, Original Sliders, White Castle is showing consumers how to use Sliders as ingredients in new seasonal recipes. For Spring, agency Blue Chip created three classic Easter and brunch recipes that serve as the basis for a social media and influencer campaign to broaden the brand. Content pairs recipes … Continue reading “Blue Chip launches recipe campaign for White Castle”
More production news (and potential jobs) for the Chicago production community. After the success of the CW reboot of Walker, Texas Ranger starring Supernatural’s co-leading man Jared Padalecki, Riverdale’s co-executive producers Ariana Jackson and Anna Fricke have been given a straight-to-series order to The 4400, a reimagining of the 2004 USA Network drama. Jackson executive … Continue reading “The CW reboot ‘The 4400’ to shoot in Chicago area”
While many brands are preparing for Earth Month, Moen is focused on World Water Day and a commitment to innovate, engineer and design for water of tomorrow. Mission Moen is all about conserving Earth’s most precious resource, while improving how we experience it. To help Moen raise awareness, its agency of record – Havas Chicago … Continue reading “Moen raises awareness on World Water Day”
Laurence Fishburne‘s Cinema Gypsy Productions and Larenz Tate‘s Tate Men Entertainment gear up to release the second season of the audio-scripted series Bronzeville, which chronicles the lives of players in the numbers game and illuminates the self-sustaining African-American community of Chicago’s Bronzeville. Both Fishburne and Tate produce, direct and voice the series. The series, written by Oscar-nominated screenwriter Josh … Continue reading “Laurence Fishburne returns with season 2 of Bronzeville”
From Gravitas Ventures, Cinestone’s newest feature film, Exodus, is in the realm of sci-fi adventure with hints of thriller elements and post-apocalyptic themes. Throughout the film we follow Connor (Jimi Stanton), an enforcer in a small town several years after the rapture. When he discovers a VHS tape painting the image of a door to … Continue reading “Chicago filmmaker releases feature length sci-fi adventure”
Amid continued questions about the Coronavirus vaccine in Illinois, NBC Chicago explores the issues and response to one of the most sought-after medicines of our lifetime in a new docuseries, Vaccinated State. Vaccinated State launched Sunday, February 21, on NBC Chicago’s Roku and Apple TV channels, documents the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine in Illinois, … Continue reading “NBC Chicago launches docuseries “Vaccinated State””
The City of Chicago, in partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), Chicago Park District (Parks) and Chicago Public Schools (CPS), today launched the public engagement phase of the Chicago Monuments Project that will conclude in April. The new website identifies monumental sculptures, artworks and commemorative plaques on the public way … Continue reading “Public is invited to join Chicago Monuments Project”
Republican Adam Kinzinger has been shunned by family members, as eleven relatives sent him a vitriolic letter accusing the Illinois representative of being a member of the “devil’s army” in light of his criticism of then-President Donald Trump after the January 6 insurrection, The New York Times reported Monday. “Oh my, what a disappointment you … Continue reading “Republican Adam Kinzinger shunned by family members”
Chicago’s Ravin Gandhi made many people think he was crazy for shooting 100 Days to Live, an award-winning, suicide-based thriller debuting this week on Amazon, Apple and several other platforms. After pitching the film in 2017, the fledgling writer/director decided not only to finance the script that he had written, but also to temporarily relocate … Continue reading “Gandhi’s journey from Google search to first feature”
While many people dream of assembling a Who’s Who list of premier talents to help them tell their personal story on the big screen, highly accomplished actor turned screenwriter and producer Finnerty Steeves (Orange is the New Black) has brilliantly brought this widely cherished dream to Technicolor reality with Steeves’ independent dramedy feature, before/during/after. On the heels … Continue reading “Steeves and Cutters on the making of before/during/after”
Chicago filmmakers Chris Charles, Columbia College Chicago Adjunct Professor Danny Kravitz, and three-time Academy Award nominee Robert Lorenz have a No. 1 box-office hit this week with the Liam Neeson thriller, The Marksman. The idea was first hatched in 2009, and the journey from script to screen was a long one. “It was ultimately our … Continue reading “Chicago filmmakers have the #1 box-office hit this week”
Cinedigm has announced the release date for its recently acquired film – 100 Days to Live, a taut psychological thriller set in the world of suicide prevention and mental health. The film, which was shot over 3 weeks in Chicago, stars Colin Egglesfield (Something Borrowed, Rizzoli & Isles), Gideon Emery (Teen Wolf, Daredevil), Heidi Johanningmeier … Continue reading “‘100 Days to Live’ directorial debut for Chicago filmmaker”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) today announced $2.5 million in funding opportunities for Chicago artists and arts organizations. A new “Artist Response Program,” opening January 11, will provide $750,000 to support art that respond to the recent health, economic and humanitarian crises. The program includes … Continue reading “City announces $2.5 million arts fund”
Thirty-two incredible women went in for love with Matt James when the exciting, landmark 25th edition of The Bachelor premiered on MONDAY, JAN. 4 (8:00-10:01 p.m. EDT), on ABC. By the end of night one, 24 lucky bachelorettes remained to toast the Bachelor and join him on the romantic adventure of a lifetime! Two of them were from … Continue reading “Two Chicago Bachelorettes vie for Matt James’ rose”
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”
That’s right, the first hard seltzer with antioxidant vitamin C and Vitamin C herself have recreated the 2000s karaoke classic so we can all graduate from 2020. We all know that 2020 is a year to remember (or forget), so Vizzy Hard Seltzer wants to help you kick it to the curb with the ultimate … Continue reading “Vizzy sends-off 2020 with Vitamin C Graduation remake”
There’s nothing like Christmas in Chicago and Hollywood filmmakers have produced several films set in Chi-town, the midwestern city who embraces many warm and small town traditions that make transplanted Chicagoans across the nation feel homesick. So curl up on your couch with your remote and a nice cup of hot cocoa and enjoy these … Continue reading “Our Top 10 Chicago Christmas films”
Reel Chicago congratulates the winners of the 62nd Chicago / Midwest Emmy Awards. A big shout out to two of our loyal advertisers, October TV and WTTW for taking home Emmys. The Chicago / Midwest Emmy Awards are presented annually for outstanding achievements in broadcasting. Members come from all areas of the industry and include … Continue reading “Congratulations to the 2020 Chicago Emmy recipients”
This is tasty. On November 19, 2020, Provence Rosé Group (PRG) will present “A Perfect Pairing,” a special virtual Thanksgiving and rosé wine event featuring Food & Wine Magazine’s 2018 Sommelier of the Year and Chicago’s Jon McDaniel and renowned chef Wolfgang Puck. The announcement was made today by PRG CEO Bob Gaudreau. Live from the kitchen of WP … Continue reading “Jon McDaniel, Wolfgang Puck pair for masterclass”
The Mill has announced the launch of its virtual production tool, Mill Scout, the global studio’s latest IP, targeted at Directors and Creatives for on-set use. Mill Scout is an Augmented Reality (AR) application for smartphones and tablets that can help Directors, Creatives and Visual Effects Supervisors visualize CGI characters and objects live on-set, in-situ … Continue reading “The Mill launches augmented reality app, Mill Scout”
The Witches marks the eighth feature collaboration between director Robert Zemeckis and cinematographer Don Burgess, ASC, following such titles as Forrest Gump, Cast Away, Flight and Allied — and their partnership can be traced back even further, through Death Becomes Her and Back to the Future Part II and Part III, on which Burgess served as 2nd-unit director of photography. “It’s nice when you work with a … Continue reading “Don Burgess reteams with Zemeckis to adapt The Witches”
The 56th Chicago International Film Festival, North America’s longest-running competitive film festival, this morning announced the winners of its 2020 competition. In a virtual ceremony live-streamed on YouTube, prizes were awarded to films in the following categories: International Feature Film Competition; New Directors Competition; International Documentary Competition; Out-Look Competition; and Short Film Competition. The Chicago Award and the Roger Ebert Award were … Continue reading “CIFF announces the winners of its 2020 competition”
Connect with the artists and filmmakers of the Chicago International Film Festival with these livestream Q&As. Livestream Q&As will be hosted on the film’s webpage on our streaming portal. Ticket holders can access the Q&A through the virtual access link emailed with their ticket purchase. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions during the event. … Continue reading “Chicago International Film Festival livestream Q&As”
Bill Murray never lets us down. I mean literally, you cannot feel down when Bill is on his game, and last week on Jimmy Kimmel, dressed in a true fashion statement, straw hat and bright coral blazer, with what I’d guess to be an Alpaca or Pomeranian in his pocket, he did not disappoint. Clearly … Continue reading “Bill Murray on Kimmel is simply entertainment at its best”
Wake up and smell the…cinnamon rolls! For nearly five decades, McDonald’s is sharing some sweet news to give fans even more ways to experience the breakfast they love at McDonald’s with the new McCafé Bakery lineup. Beginning Wednesday, October 28, customers can enjoy a new Apple Fritter, Blueberry Muffin or Cinnamon Roll at breakfast time … Continue reading “McDonald’s sweetens up breakfast with McCafé Bakery”
NBC News’ Lester Holt will anchor a live town hall discussion with Democratic presidential nominee and former Vice President Joe Biden from Miami on Monday, Oct. 5 at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on NBC. The one-hour primetime event will also air across MSNBC, CNBC, NBC News NOW and will be available in Spanish on … Continue reading “Lester Holt to moderate Town Hall with Joe Biden”
Congratulations to our friends and advertisers who have received nominations for a Chicago/Midwest Emmy. The 62nd Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards will broadcast virtually in November. Regions covered by the Chicago/Midwest Chapter include Chicago, Illinois; Peoria-Bloomington, Illinois; Rockford, Illinois; South Bend-Elkhart, Indiana; Green Bay-Appleton, Wisconsin; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Wausau-Rhinelander, Wisconsin; and Madison, Wisconsin. Here is the complete list … Continue reading “2019-2020 Chicago/Midwest Emmy Nominations List”
Join Midwest Film Festival and The Gene Siskel Film Center on Tuesday, September 29th at 6:00pm at the CHI-Town Movies Drive-In with a brand new themed night to celebrate the passion projects created by Union & Indie Filmmakers. This night is all about celebrating the short films created not only by indie filmmakers, but also members of … Continue reading “MFF Union & Indie Passion Projects exciting lineup”
Reeling will celebrate its 38th anniversary this fall with a new virtual edition of the second-oldest LGBTQ+ film festival in the world. Showing 30 features, 54 shorts across eight shorts programs from 21 countries, Reeling will offer home viewers access to new films not currently available on commercial streaming platforms. Over the course of 11 days – … Continue reading “Reeling LGBTQ+ International Film Festival lineup”
This afternoon, Angela Kinsey from The Office announces Glad ForceFlex Plus in a Kitchen Keynote that’s guaranteed to keep you entertained for 8 full minutes. Similar to Apple, Microsoft and other Silicon Valley Tech Titans, Glad has an innovation to be proud of. So, the brand decided to go big and launch its “greatest innovation … Continue reading “Glad & FCB launch a Kitchen Keynote with Angela Kinsey”
The City of Chicago announced a racial healing and historical reckoning project to assess the memorials, monuments and other art across Chicago. The project will grapple with the often unacknowledged – or forgotten – history associated with the City’s various municipal art collections, and will provide a vehicle to address the hard truths of Chicago’s racial … Continue reading “City of Chicago to Assess Memorials and Monuments”
Inc. magazine today revealed that The Boathouse Agency x Studio is No. 1,223 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The Boathouse Agency x Studio started with CEO/Founder Aram Rappaport cold calling clients from his 150 square foot bedroom in Manhattan four years ago. “I was on a mission to change the … Continue reading “Boathouse Agency X Studio makes the Inc. 5000 List”
Charles Andrew Gardner’s Long Ride Home will compete for Best Short Film this week at Academy Award® winner Geena Davis’ Bentonville Film Festival. In the powerful short film, Long Ride Home, Brandon is an affluent African-American who has climbed the ladder to success, resenting anyone not willing to put in the same amount of discipline. However, his perspective in … Continue reading “Gardner’s ‘Long Ride Home’ plays Bentonville Fest”
FX has set the extraordinary ensemble cast that will star with Chris Rock in the fourth installment of the Golden Globe and Emmy Award winning limited series Fargo. Peabody, Golden Globe® and Emmy® Award winning Executive Producer Noah Hawley (creator/showrunner/writer/director) and his production company 26 Keys will lead the creative team for the latest all-new “true … Continue reading “FX announces Fargo Season Four Cast”
LÜM, a Madison-based tech startup that’s revolutionizing the way artists and fans stream and discover new music, has closed a Seed II round of funding. LÜM will continue its innovative launch of the first virtual gifting system implemented to help the development and profitability of independent artists in the music streaming industry. Over the past … Continue reading “LÜM adds virtual gifting system to music streaming”
A few months ago, Eleven04 hosted Story Forge, a virtual storytelling contest showcasing some promising new filmmakers aspiring to have their scripts made into reality. Although there were many talented individuals, one person rose above the rest: Christian Mejía, writer and director of Semana Santa. Christian Mejía BIO Christian Mejía is a filmmaker from Chicago … Continue reading “Christian Mejía wins Story Forge competition”
The Gene Siskel Film Center will host virtual screenings of the new locally-produced documentary “Seasons of Change on Henry’s Farm” beginning Friday, August 14. Set on an idyllic family farm in Central Illinois, “Seasons of Change on Henry’s Farm” (USA, 83 minutes) follows organic farmer Henry Brockman as he grapples with the future of farming … Continue reading “Chicago-Made doc screens at Gene Siskel Film Center”
After months of anticipation, viewers across America can now stream over 1,500 episodes of Wolf Entertainment programming on NBCUniversal’s new streaming service, Peacock. Your favorite Wolf shows available to stream on Peacock include select episodes from the 20 seasons of Law & Order, 10 seasons of Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and the complete catalog of … Continue reading “Chicago PD, Fire, and Med now streaming on Peacock”
Mailchimp, VICE, and Arts & Sciences, launches the self-shot docuseries Essentials that follows nine essential workers navigating their lives during Covid-19 in various cities around the United States. The show focuses on often less-heard-about employees and small business owners who are exploring ways to modify their capabilities to provide needed services to their communities. The five-part, … Continue reading “Chicago urban farmer in Mailchimp docuseries Essentials”
Oprah Winfrey and Lionsgate Join Forces With Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and The New York Times to Adapt the Acclaimed 1619 Project Into a Portfolio of Films, Television Programming & Other Content Across All Studio Platforms Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and The New York Times have chosen global content leader Lionsgate to be the home for … Continue reading “Oprah Winfrey, Lionsgate, NY Times adapt 1619 Project”
For the month of June, SKITTLES has given up its signature rainbow by removing the iconic colorful branding to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and highlight that during Pride, only #OneRainbow matters. For the first time in the U.S., the brand is releasing limited-edition SKITTLES Pride Packs. The packs feature a colorless design with colorless candies … Continue reading “SKITTLES celebrates Pride Month with Pride Packs”
Cinespace Chicago Film Studios has released their own set of Production Safety Guidelines and announced their partnership with ServPro, which will be the exclusive cleaning service allowed on campus. These updates come as the City and State move further into Phase 3 of Re-opening. Among the industries reopening- with strict safety guidelines- are: childcare businesses, libraries, bars and outdoor dining at restaurants. Cinespace president, … Continue reading “Cinespace releases their Production Safety Guidelines”
Much like Taco Tuesday, WEGGSDAY embraces the popularity of marrying a day of the week with a popular food. A two-minute original music video, titled “Wednesday Is Officially WEGGSDAY!,” has been created to hilariously introduce the concept. The animated video also highlights the versatility of eggs, reminding consumers that eggs are an incredible meal solution … Continue reading “Move over Taco Tuesday… here comes WEGGSDAY!”
The 41st annual Telly Awards, the world’s largest honor for video and television content across all screens, has announced the 2020 winners. With a collection of Gold, Silver and Bronze awards, Chicago-based standouts range from Bottle Rocket Media’s “Nicholas Brinley Experiences” and Studio 1847’s “Make It With Menards: Glassblower Jason Wein” to There Be Dragons LLC’s “Dustburgs” and Iron Light, PACO Collective, WTTW … Continue reading “Chicago takes a home a bundle of Telly Awards”
The New York Times Magazine was the biggest winner on the second day of the week-long online ADC 99th Annual Awards, when 55 prestigious Cubes were awarded in Experiential Design, Photography and Spatial Design. Best of Discipline for Experiential went to FCB Chicago with FCBX and Lord + Thomas, both Chicago for “Most Dangerous Street“ on behalf of Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence. The New York … Continue reading “FCB’s ‘Most Dangerous Street’ best Experiential Design”
We may not be ready to hit the road yet but GoTraveler offers the next best thing to packing a bag. Riding an elephant, going through an African safari, joining an Irish brewery tour, and gazing at the Eiffel Tower are all travel experiences of a lifetime. There’s a lot to learn about the world … Continue reading “Antidote for lockdown: 10 reasons to get out of town”
FIRSTHAND: CoronavirusOne-Hour Special Compiled from WTTW Digital Documentary SeriesMonday, May 18, 9:00 pm and Thursday, May 21 at 8:00 pm on WTTW#FIRSTHANDwttw In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, WTTW hit the streets of Chicago to film the 15-part digital series FIRSTHAND: Coronavirus, produced and released in real time, that explored the personal, firsthand perspectives of a … Continue reading “FIRSTHAND: Coronavirus WTTW Documentary Series”
They are Optimus. Whether it’s creating and delivering top-notch, award-winning content or throwing their legendary block party, which was talked about for an entire year… until the next, this diverse collective of award-winning editors, filmmakers, storytellers, and artists share an unrivaled passion for life. And more importantly, each other. You can feel it the moment … Continue reading “Behind the scenes of “We Are Optimus””
In past articles we’ve discussed an overview of a home studio and the USB microphone. But before we get into other topics, I wanted to talk a little bit about headphones. They’re an essential link to your workflow for auditions and absolutely necessary if doing a digital patch session (source connect or ipdtl). Before you … Continue reading “Choosing the right headphones for your project”
Porchlight Music Theatre’s 25th Anniversary season continues with a new free virtual series Sondheim @ 90 Roundtable with host Michael Weber, debuting Saturday, April 25 at 7 p.m. CST on Porchlight’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/PorchlightMusicTheatre. The series, created and hosted by Porchlight Music Theatre Artistic Director Michael Weber, gathers talents from Chicago, Broadway and the world … Continue reading “Porchlight’s virtual series ‘Sondheim @ 90 Roundtable’”
Design studios, ad agencies, production companies, brands and freelancers in 32 countries have made the cut as finalists for the prestigious ADC 99th Annual Awards, as announced today by The One Club for Creativity, the world’s foremost non-profit organization supporting and celebrating the global creative community. Entries in the global ADC 99th Annual Awards increased 6% from last … Continue reading “One Club announces finalists for ADC 99th Annual Awards”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) today announced that the City of Chicago is launching the “Chicago Together! Make a Mask, Give a Mask, Wear a Mask” citywide cloth mask drive on Saturday, April 25, 2020. Through the citywide drive, residents can make and donate homemade cloth … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot launches citywide ‘Make a Mask’ drive”
Barbizon Lighting has compiled a resource list of discounted or free educational opportunities and tools for our industry. If you are aware of one not listed below send an email to Tobin Neis tneis@barbizon.com with the item and a link and we can get it added! The lights will come up again; in theatres, on film sets, museums, … Continue reading “Barbizon shares list of support resources for the industry”
All three Chicago Dick Wolf shows Chicago Med, PD and Fire have halted production and will not be returning until next season. In addition to the Chicago shows, the list includes other Wolf series Law & Order: SVU for NBC and FBI for CBS, as well as NBC’s New Amsterdam — all from Universal Television — upcoming limited series for Peacock Angelyne starring … Continue reading “UPDATED: ‘Chicago Med, PD & Fire’ halt production”
Pepe Vargas, the Founder and Executive Director of the Chicago Latino Film Festival sadly announced the postponement of the 36th annual festival. Due to the concerns for the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the festival originally scheduled to open on April 16 through April 30 at AMC River East 21 Theatres, will be pushed to … Continue reading “SEE UPDATE: the Chicago Latino Film Fest is postponed”
Twelve screenwriters have been selected to participate in Sundance Institute’s eighth annual Screenwriters Intensive in Los Angeles, to take place March 4-5, 2020. One of the students selected is Chicagoan, Jason Park. The Intensive, a two-day workshop for select emerging writers and writer/directors from underrepresented communities, focuses on the development of first fiction features. Fellows … Continue reading “Sundance picks 12 Filmmakers for Screenwriters Intensive”
Multi-talented artist, advocate, and creative leader Elijah McKinnon — who is from the future — joins the 2020 Reel Chicago Black List, an annual celebration of African-American creativity published during Black History Month. The Reel Chicago Black List includes Global Mixx founder Mary Datcher, House Music pioneer Vince Lawrence, and filmmaker Rhyan LaMarr. To view … Continue reading “Elijah McKinnon, Executive Director, OTV”
International creative audio network Squeak E. Clean Studios welcomes Justin Hori back as a Creative Director out of the Chicago office. A talented composer, Hori has developed a knack for crafting poignant, contemporary audio stylings for branded content, crafting original music for award-winning projects with such top clients as Apple, Reebok, Adidas, Volkswagen and Budweiser, … Continue reading “CD Justin Hori returns to Squeak E. Clean Studios”
Victoria Lee, director and producer, 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 Global Mixx founder Mary Datcher, McDonald’s US Marketing Director Lizette Williams, and filmmaker Rhyan LaMarr. To view the archives, click here. Writer, creator and … Continue reading “Victoria Lee, writer, creator, cellist”
The leaders from creative production studio Flavor are very proud to announce the addition of Rob Churchill to their Chicago staff in the position of VFX Director. The announcement was made by Flavor’s Executive Producer, Neal Cohen. According to Churchill and executives from Flavor parent Cutters Studios, this momentous development also involves Churchill as a … Continue reading “Maestro Rob Churchill joins Cutters Studios’ Flavor”
Cresco Labs, one of the largest vertically integrated multi-state cannabis operators in the United States, has hired Greg Butler as its first Chief Commercial Officer in the U.S. A graduate of the Harvard Business School and former marketing director for Miller Lite, Butler expressed enthusiasm for the groundbreaking nature of the newly created position, which … Continue reading “Cannabis operator Cresco Labs hires new CCO Greg Butler”
Samuel Goldwyn Films announced today that the company has acquired North American rights to Tod Lending’s feature documentary Saul & Ruby’s Holocaust Survivor Band (aka Saul & Ruby, To Life!). The film debuted and won the Grand Jury Prize at the Miami Jewish Film Festival this January and features Holocaust survivors and band members Saul … Continue reading “Goldwyn gets ‘Saul & Ruby’s Holocaust Survivor Band’”
Commercial production company VANDAL has signed Sarah Gitersonke of SG+Partners for exclusive Midwest representation. Director Francis Lawrence — known for his films I Am Legend, Hunger Games, Catching Fire, and Apple TV+ phenomenon See — and legacy producer, Heather Heller, founded Vandal in February 2019 with a powerhouse roster. Along with Lawrence, VANDAL represents Scott … Continue reading “Vandal LA signs SG+Partners for Midwest Representation”
The Sundance Institute, in collaboration with global philanthropic organization Luminate, today announced six new projects supported by the Sundance Institute | Luminate Fund. The Sundance Institute | Luminate Fund provides non-recoupable grants to independent artists working across documentary, narrative, episodic and emerging media whose work display a strong potential for social and cultural impact. Joining … Continue reading “Eight indie projects aim to spark change at Sundance”
The 2020 AMP Awards for Music & Sound is off and running! The industry’s only non-profit juried competition honoring excellence in music and sound for brands across all media has announced its Call for Entries and the opening of its online entry portal. The portal, which features an updated design for 2020, can be found … Continue reading “AMP Awards issues 2020 Call for Entries”
Santa Claus is not the only global sensation that gets people during the holidays: Christmas commercials add to the fun. Kids and advertising agencies around the world enthusiastically anticipate the overnight gift-giving binge for weeks leading up to the annual celebration honoring the humble birth of a Jewish carpenter 2,019 years ago. After selectively surveying … Continue reading “Christmas commercials here, there, and everywhere”
Last month, Essanay Studio and Lighting Company co-owner Wayne Kubacki retired from the nationally recognized company that he co-founded decades ago. Widely admired for his extensive knowledge, punctilious care, and conversational efficiency, he leaves a vacancy that will reverberate far beyond the company’s Goose Island facility. “I’m going to miss him,” says Jules Tomko, Essanay’s … Continue reading “Wayne Kubacki retires from Essanay Studios”
The One Club for Creativity has announced the juries for all 12 disciplines for the ADC 99th Annual Awards, one of the world’s longest-running and most prestigious global competitions celebrating excellence in craft and innovation in all forms of design and advertising. More than 130 highly qualified creatives representing 26 countries will judge work from … Continue reading “One Club announces juries for ADC Annual Awards”
The AMP Awards for Music & Sound has announced their date and venue for the 2020 gala awards presentation, honoring excellence in music and sound for brands in all media. Sponsored by the Association of Music Producers (www.ampnow.com), the show will take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2020, and returns for the second time to … Continue reading “AMP sets date for 2020 AMP Awards”
For World Kindness Day, which was November 13th, Netflix and their upcoming animated film, Klaus, along with the Brothers and Sisters of America brought holiday cheer to Chicago kids. As Jesper, the title character in Klaus, says, “a simple act of kindness can always spark another”, and on World Kindness Day, Netflix did just that! … Continue reading “Netflix, ‘Klaus’ bring special delivery to Chicago kids”
Combining traditional expertise and Millennial wisdom, the Chicago shop is proving that “good guys can win” In many ways, SOCIALDEVIANT is more of an experiment than an advertising agency. It is a place where clients are invited to fiddle with work in progress, employees are expected to be restless, and beer is brewed onsite. … Continue reading “SOCIALDEVIANT “iterates to great””
French / American director and artist combines documentary style with a strong performance background Emmy-winning filmmaker Jeffrey DeChausse has signed on to work with his long time friend, Roy Skillicorn, owner / EP of Seed Media Arts. Jeffrey was raised in Detroit, Michigan, and in the Loire valley in France, where he worked and lived … Continue reading “Jeffrey DeChausse sows in with Seed”
Bobby Rowe and Sean C. Sullivan are the new faces in New York and LA, Collective Management remains in the Midwest The principals of international creative company Cutters Studios are very proud to announce the immediate appointment of highly accomplished industry professionals Bobby Rowe and Sean C. Sullivan as the firm’s new representatives on the … Continue reading “Cutters signs new East & West Coast representation”
Musical creative director chairs continue in Chicago. With Andrés Ordóñez choosing to take the helm at FCB Chicago, Energy BBDO has announced the promotion of Josh Gross and Pedro Pérez from Executive Creative Directors to Co-Chief Creative Officers. The announcement was made by Tonise Paul, President and CEO, Energy BBDO. “For the past five years, … Continue reading “Gross, Pérez succeed Ordóñez at Energy BBDO”
“To help our clients win, we need to make sure our leadership team is the best in the business.” – Norm Bilow, Escape Pod Big moves are happening at indie agency The Escape Pod. The agency announced its new leadership team. This news includes Derek Sherman who has been appointed Executive Creative Director, Tyler Moore … Continue reading “The Escape Pod unveils new leadership team”
New Worldwide Favorites campaign brings taste of Spain, Canada, Australia and the Netherlands to U.S.stores Ever wonder what McDonald’s menu is like around the world? C’mon of course you have. Well, now the fast food giant is allowing its customers to sample some of their global menu items. For real. Or as they say in … Continue reading “McDonald’s brings international flavor to U.S.”
Nike named Marketer of the Year as AICP Next Awards and AICP Show honor the most innovative marketing in the motion image Winners of the AICP Show: The Art & Technique of the American Commercial were presented tonight at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City. Together with the AICP Next Awards, … Continue reading “AICP honors the best advertising of the year”
Films from around the world screen for free at the Chicago Cultural Center every Wednesday through October 2 Cinema/Chicago’s annual free Summer Screenings Program goes from the blossom of young romance and swimsuit sunbathing to the mythology of mermaids and the search for alien life. With 17 feature films and one short screening at the … Continue reading “Cinema/Chicago’s Summer Screenings Program”
The agency’s new West Loop studio and office will be led by veteran Creative Director Justin Hori Human pushes its industry-leading talents into fresh territories, joining the robust Chicago creative market with a new West Loop studio and office under the leadership of veteran composer/producer Justin Hori. Complemented by offices in New York, Los Angeles, … Continue reading “Human brings audio expertise to Chicago”
Wieden + Kennedy, Apple and MJZ lead Shortlist nominations. Matt Miller, President and CEO of AICP, today announced the first-ever “Community Award,” to be presented during AICP Week in June. The Community Award is an unfiltered way to give the entire industry the ability to voice its opinion on the favorite spot of the year. … Continue reading “AICP announces Community Award and Shortlists”
With nearly three-dozen films for about $12 apiece, the program offers top-notch viewing for comedy lovers The Chicago Comedy Film Festival has released an all-star lineup for its 9th annual run, April 5th – 7th, at Columbia College Chicago. Fred Armisen, Mel Brooks, Angela Kinsey, Patton Oswalt, Kevin Pollack, Jaleel White, and Fred Willard are … Continue reading “9th Chicago Comedy Film Festival, April 5-7”
If you show up on a Wednesday, there’s a good chance you’ll be working on a set by the weekend It took little more than a year for Max Brudvig to grow The Chicago Film Scene from personal inspiration to thriving organization. Meeting every Wednesday night at The Arrogant Frog bar in Lincoln Park, The … Continue reading “Chicago Film Scene growing in Lincoln Park”
“Seeing students’ eyes light up and hearing ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ about what you’ve done feels really good.” A jack of all trades in the design industry, Jeff Stanley has more than a decade of advertising and design experience creating work for; Sears, Office Max, AARP, WalMart and McDonald’s. The projects for these clients include: general … Continue reading “Reel Black List: Jeff Stanley, designer”
Vintage favorite “Que Será Será” is the soundtrack for a commercial celebrating the Galaxy smartphone’s 10th anniversary Leo Burnett has dropped a new spot for Samsung Galaxy to help kick off a year that not only celebrates the 10th anniversary of Galaxy smartphones, but also sets the foundation for its next wave of products. And … Continue reading “Leo Burnett mixes Doris Day into new Samsung spot”
The term “sucked” could have applied to the parade of mediocre, ho-hum spots that aired during Sunday’s big game. And so ends another Super Bowl season. The build up of anticipated commercials is finally (and mercifully) over until next January. If one were to say Sunday, “Well, that sucked the life out of me,” we … Continue reading “The Best and Worst of Super Bowl LIII commercials”
“Some may say our new commercial is too hot for TV. We’ll let the audience decide.” Katy Marshall, Springboard The Reel Chicago team was not going to post anymore today, but that was before we came across the Devour Super Bowl spot. The 3-year-old disruptive frozen food brand, which is owned by Chicago- and Pittsburgh-based … Continue reading “Watch Devour’s racy food porn Super Bowl spot”
“Father of Direct Marketing” Created a Trillion-Dollar Industry Advertising has lost a trailblazer. Lester Wunderman, chairman emeritus and founder of Wunderman, the original and largest direct marketing advertising agency, passed away on January 9, 2019 in New York of natural causes. He was 98. According to a press release from Wunderman, the icon launched a … Continue reading “Lester Wunderman passes of natural causes”
Versatile, award-winning pro brings post, radio, on-camera, voiceover, and production expertise to the Big Apple boutique Cutters Studios welcomes the highly accomplished commercial editor Alison Grasso to its New York staff, effective immediately. Well known as a staff editor for Crew Cuts in New York, Grasso started her commercial career with the company immediately upon … Continue reading “Cutters New York hires editor Alison Grasso”
Chicago excels at beer, insurance, sea creatures, pickup trucks, romance, and sweet-smelling toilet bowls Outside the realm of direct advertising, the technique for measuring the success of a commercial can be somewhat fuzzy. Using a digital yardstick that combines Google analytics, social media engagement, and our thumbs-up button, we’ve determined the most widely acclaimed spots … Continue reading “The year’s biggest posts about commercials”
The number of big stories from 2018 is far too great to fit into one article, thankfully. But we’ve tried. Using a combination of Google analytics, social media engagement, and our own thumbs-up button, Reel Chicago has compiled a list of the most widely read stories from the last twelve months. To get a taste … Continue reading “A look back at the stories that defined 2018”
The Chicago company “put all hands on deck” to handle music and sound for Kendall Goldberg’s feature starring the Napoleon Dynamite sensation NoiseFloor provided full post production sound services and music supervision for director Kendall Goldberg’s first feature film, When Jeff Tried to Save the World. Jeff is the story of an old-school bowling alley … Continue reading “NoiseFloor helps Jon Heder save the world”
From hip-hop snow angels to Lego parades, an adult-sized portion of casually-vetted Chicago content to help readers get the most out of the holiday Falling onto a couch in front of a TV is the final and most relaxing course of every good Thanksgiving meal. It pairs well with prime time football, Charlie Brown, The … Continue reading “Thanksgiving break: holiday viewing suggestions”
The 60th annual celebration of the standard bearers for excellence in the television broadcasting industry The 2018 Chicago/Midwest Emmy Ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile, Chicago Ballroom, 540 N. Michigan. The Nominees Outstanding Achievement for News Programming – Evening Newscast: Larger … Continue reading “The 2018 Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards”
The VFX company adds life to “Out of Focus” — a touching story about Myopia — by creating environments that grow more exquisite with each view Carbon collaborated with integrated agency Golin to create a fully-animated movie trailer Out of Focus as part of a larger Myopia Matters awareness campaign for Essilor of America, the … Continue reading “Carbon, Golin team up on Myopia campaign for Essilor”
With self-deprecating enthusiasm, the cast wields a “Best in Show” kind of charisma that includes all of the fun and none of the flaws Freaks & Errors: A Rare Collection is a documentary that follows a diverse and global group of people who are spellbound by the “all-consuming influence” of philately, also known as stamp … Continue reading “Stamp collecting thrills in Chi-made ‘Freaks & Errors’”
Co-directed by a Loyola U professor and post-produced in Chicago, the film is inspired by the true story of a white Jewish student in a HBCU medical college Service to Man, a narrative film co-directed and produced by Chicago’s Aaron Greer and Alabama’s Seth Panitch, is set to have a broadcast debut and be available … Continue reading “Greer and Panitch’s “Service to Man” available on Starz”
The opening track punches into a stomping drumbeat that lays the foundation for a triumphant guitar melody. In early 2018, Chicago musicians Dave Dakich and David Steele got together with the intention of making music for film and commercial productions. Two months and three recording session later, they had completed a full-length album that has … Continue reading “Dakich & Steele and the story of “Chicago Bleeds Blues””
The actor’s humorous performance embodies the brand’s straightforward approach to insurance “I like Dennis Quaid” is a line from a new Esurance spot that made me smile. Aside from the “prop apple,” it’s one of many reasons why the brand’s recent commercial by Leo Burnett — titled Surprisingly Painless — is Reel Ad of … Continue reading “Quaid makes commercial debut in new Esurance spot”
Jeep drivers and passengers are met with impromptu adventures revolving around the same live OneRepublic show Gaaaaah! Sorry, that was my inner fan girl screaming at the notion that there is a national campaign with Grammy-nominated OneRepublic. Two-year boutique agency Highdive, led by former DDB creative execs Mark Gross and Chad Broude, … Continue reading “Highdive weaves stories of concert goers for Jeep”
Wednesday’s Cannes Lions Awards Show turned out to be a great one for Ogilvy Chicago as the agency won the Grand Prix for their award-winning Kiwi Shoe Polish campaign for SC Johnson, USA. The story broke inThe Chicago Egotist. The new award is described as “focusing on the artistry, skill, talent and flair required to … Continue reading “Ogilvy KO’s Cannes’ Industry Craft competition”
Following its premiere at MoMA, the Show and Next Awards will tour museums and cultural institutions around the country and abroad (New York — 14 June 2018) The AICP Show premiered tonight at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, closing out AICP Week, a celebration of advertising in the motion … Continue reading “AICP launches another brilliant celebration of creativity”
Ethan Hawke and Vincent D’Onofrio occasionally stopped to chat on their way to grab a drink or browse the posters on display. Besides offering a ballroom full of dinner guests the opportunity to witness an intimate conversation between Ethan Hawke and Vincent D’Onofrio, the Gene Siskel Film Center’s annual Renaissance Gala brought together dozens … Continue reading “Reel mingles into the Siskel Center’s Renaissance Gala”
With their Best in Show win for “Fearless Girl” for State Street Advisors, McCann will direct a $5,000 grant to an educational institution of their choosing (New York, 12 June 2018) The AICP Next Awards debuted tonight at The Tishman Auditorium. The AICP Next Awards is one of the tent pole events of AICP … Continue reading “AICP Next premieres at Tishman Auditorium”
The “most thought-provoking program to date in the Windy City” will light up Facets Cinematheque June 8-14, 2018 New York — 14 May 2018 To celebrate its 16th Anniversary in Chicago, the African Diaspora International Film Festival (ADIFF) — hosted by Facets Cinematheque and presented by ArtMattan Productionsts from June 8 to 14 — … Continue reading “The African Diaspora International Film Festival”
Just in time for roller-coaster season, the studio and the agency team up on four adrenaline-soaked spots for Cedar Fair Entertainment, owner of 11 amusement parks across the U.S. and Canada. Following the success of Carbon’s creepily ominous 2017 teaser film for Mystic Timbers, Cramer-Krasselt Senior Art Director David Vaca and his team hatched an … Continue reading “Carbon thrills with C+K on new Cedar Fair campaign”
After months of revisions, concepts either die in meetings or become compromised to a state of impotence Those of us in the creative department have asked the question so many times it has become rote. The best answer is not an answer. Clients are difficult. Period. Especially when it comes to approving work. Therefore, we … Continue reading “Why are so many clients (still) afraid of new creative?”
The Oscar-winning actress has teamed up with Fresh Films and AT&T to create a summer filmmaking lab for teen females Though women make up 50% of moviegoers, they represent only 17% of creators in Hollywood, outnumbered by men in most roles within film and TV production, from writing and cinematography to production and editing … Continue reading “Reese Witherspoon helps build female film careers”
(Chicago — 14 May 2018) Comma Music — the award-winning music composition, library and licensing company based in Chicago — is proud to announce Midwest representation by The Standard Society. Comma Managing Director Bonny Dolan expressed enthusiasm for both the people at The Standard Society and the opportunities that they will help create. “I’m so … Continue reading “Comma signs with Standard Society, absorbs Particle”
(Chicago, Los Angeles — 9 May 2018) Los Angeles- and Chicago-based commercial production company Big Deahl Productions has announced that Nicole Wasserman will be coming on board in the role of Executive Producer, beginning May 14th, 2018. “Nicole is armed with the experience and networking ability to take BDP to the next level!” exclaims Big … Continue reading “Nicole Wasserman joins Big Deahl Productions”
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”
Agencies and studios of all sizes receive honors at One Club awards Furlined’s “Barbers” for Apple takes ADC Black Cube for Best of Show Two Best of Discipline honors for Tess Co.’s COGY Wheelchair. (New York City — 7 May 2018) Agencies and studios large and small from 34 countries, ranging from the … Continue reading “Top winners at The One Club’s ADC 97th Annual Awards”
Larry Ziegelman’s funny poke at geek culture will be one of several short films and web series screening at the May 1st Midwest Independent Film Festival 2018 Comedy Shorts Night. The evening begins with a panel discussion about crowdfunding. According to acting MIFF director Mike Kwielford, a handful of filmmakers will get real about what … Continue reading ““Geek Lounge” leads comedy lineup at May’s MIFF”
(Los Angeles — 24 April 2018) ThinkLA has announced the finalists for the 2018 IDEA Awards. For the eighth year, the association celebrates Southern California’s advertising, marketing, and media superstars and pay tribute to Los Angeles as a hotbed of creativity and brand building. Over the past few months, hundreds of submissions were received from … Continue reading “ThinkLA announces 2018 IDEA awards finalists”
AICP winners will be announced during AICP Week (New York — 23 April 2018) Matt Miller, President and CEO of AICP, today announced the AICP Awards Shortlists, which are comprised of work entered into the AICP Show and AICP Next Awards. “Each year’s Shortlists come into being because of the hard work of the … Continue reading “The 2018 AICP Show and Next Awards shortlists released”
(Chicago — 2 April 2018) For those who love dogs and cats, a special weekend of films is taking place in Chicago. The NY Cat Film Festival and The NY Dog Film Festival will be at the Patio Theater on April 28 & 29, 2018. The festivals celebrate our love for dogs and cats, illustrated … Continue reading “NY Cat Film Fest and NY Dog Film Fest coming to Chicago”
Beloved and respected editors with Hybrid, Cutters and Exile to be honored posthumously (Los Angeles, CA – April 10, 2018) Three West Coast-based editors whose lives and work made an impact on their colleagues, their clients and their peers are being honored with posthumous induction into the AICE Hall of Fame at this year’s … Continue reading “Bartoli, Hafner, Zumbrunnen to join AICE Hall of Fame”
Erin Sarofsky established her company, Sarofsky Corp., in January of 2009 in Chicago’s booming West Loop neighborhood. Sarofsky Corp. specializes in design-driven production, working with a broad range of clients in the advertising, broadcast, network, film and entertainment industries. Erin and her team of talented artists and producers are best known for creating gorgeous, … Continue reading “Reel Women: Erin Sarofsky, ECD / entrepreneur”
Chicago’s We Are Unlimited, FCB, Onion Labs and Energy BBDO are among the ad agency and post-production companies nominated for this year’s Webby Awards, the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences announced today. The Webbys were established in 1996, when most people thought of the web as something Spider-man shot from his wrists. The … Continue reading “We Are Unlimited, Energy BBDO among Webby noms”
Led by Editor Angelo Valencia, Optimus roster expands by five (Chicago — 2 April 2018) Optimus announced today that they are welcoming aboard Editor/Partner Angelo Valencia, Editor Matt Glover, VFX Supervisor Ryan Wood, Senior Producer Joanna Woods and Assistant Editor Emily Hayes to join the leading production and post house. This team most recently … Continue reading “Optimus bolsters capabilities with new creative team”
Christine Dudley rarely goes to the movies. That may seem odd for the Director of the Illinois Film Office, but she’s dedicated to a job that begins before most of the scenes are even shot and ends, like, never. So what does she do? When Dudley’s not pitching Hollywood studios, she’s reading the … Continue reading “Pitching with IL Film Office Director Christine Dudley”
Apple made the wise move of enlisting Chicago’s Erin Sarofsky and her team at Sarofsky, Inc. to showcase the capabilities of the new iMac Pro’s hardware and compatible software. “It was a thrill to get a call out of the blue from Apple to essentially be a spokesperson for the iMac Pro, and the brand,” … Continue reading “Sarofsky makes iPopping film for iMac Pro”
Carbon, Whitehouse Post, and Cramer-Krasselt combined spy-thriller cool with cute-mascot warmth in a pair of spots for the Paper and Packaging Board that debuted in February. Box Mission and Paper Pitch star a corrugated box and a ream of paper that spring to life during a home delivery and a corporate meeting. Animated with … Continue reading “Carbon’s thrilling adventures with boxes and paper”
TRUECar & Panda Express name Wolfgang of Los Angeles AOR Consider Venice Beach-based Wolfgang of L.A. on a roll. Since winning Halo Top in January, the agency/consultancy, formed by former David&Goliath execs, Mike Geiger, Seema Miller and Colin Jeffrey has added two more wins in the form of TRUECar and Panda Express to its client … Continue reading “Wolfgang L.A., Jimmy Kimmel & other West Coast news”
United Airlines joins other brands in NRA boycott Chicago-based United Airlines has joined other major brands including Delta Airlines, Hertz, National and Avis car rentals as well as MetLife, Allied Van Lines and North American Van Lines in discontinuing or altering their relationships with the National Rifle Association. In a tweet, United said it is … Continue reading “United Airlines ends NRA discount & other news”
Well, this Reel Ad of the Week from Cramer-Krasselt made me smile. I was not aware of perhaps the coolest Italian cobbler this side of Geppetto, but Porsche USA and Cramer-Krasselt have now introduced me to the legendary artisan Ciccio Liberto. Who is Ciccio Liberto, you ask? (And why do we care?) Well, for over … Continue reading “Cramer-Krasselt & Porsche cobble together a visceral spot”
CMA Digital Studios (CMADS) has created a potentially life-changing opportunity for filmmakers and content creators in Illinois. The company’s 2018 Content Initiative will invest $250,000 in five Illinois-made webseries to be selected by a committee of key players from the Chicago film community over the next two weeks. The opportunity is open to all … Continue reading “CMA Digital Studios to fund five webseries with $50k each”
Sunday, I will be watching my beloved Eagles take on the hated Pats. And truth be told, I will be chowing down on a genuine cheese steak from Philly’s West in Westwood. However, if I wasn’t enjoying that meat that literally becomes one with the bread, I would certainly try Jack in the Box’s new … Continue reading “Watch Martha Stewart take on Jack in the Box”
Former WPP exec Angela Johnson is leaving the Windy City for the Big Apple. McGarryBowen U.S. President Simon Pearce announced that Johnson has been named President of the agency’s New York office, and introduced her to the NYC staff in a meeting Friday afternoon. “Angela has a rich background in bringing impressive, record-breaking results for … Continue reading “Angela Johnson named President of mcgarrybowen/NYC”
The sale of Chicago’s second public TV station may have cost the city college system $130 million, according to the results of a six-month investigation contained in this article. Calculated in terms of potential income, the loss was just one of many negative factors that continue to affect Chicago as a result of the Federal … Continue reading “WYCC sold for over $100 million less than its worth”
”The Bill Murray Experience” arrives on VOD platforms Dec. 19 The Bill Murray Experience documents the efforts of a recently unengaged and temporarily uninspired actress / filmmaker, Sadie Katz, as she attempts to procure “a magical chance encounter with her favorite actor and life guru, Bill Murray,” according to the film’s synopsis. Featuring Joel … Continue reading “Bill Murray, Jens Jensen, One Show in the news”
An Open Letter to the Chicago Film Community: The Chicago film industry continues to enjoy record-breaking growth and development. But there’s one change we are not seeing fast enough — an unequivocal rejection of the culture of sexism, misogyny, and discrimination that has long dominated this business. If our community is to continue to thrive, … Continue reading “Chicago Media Standards”
When Ryan Hansen Solves Crimes on Television* creator Rawson Marshall Thurber (director of Central Intelligence, We’re The Millers, and Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story) and his team set out to find the perfect company to create their new YouTube Red show’s main titles, design-driven production company Sarofsky made their short list. Well known for its … Continue reading “YouTube Red enlists Sarofsky for series intro”
Screenwriter Patrick Wimp gathered an abundance of background material before he began on Public Housing Unit, a story about three police officers who patrol the Chicago projects in the 1980s. Over the previous year, along with creators Angie Gaffney and Ted Reilly, he had interviewed not only the cops who had worked the public housing … Continue reading “Dwelling within Chicago’s “Public Housing Unit””
Explore Media told a classic American tale in a fifteen-second spot that took less than a month to go viral. “The Ultimate Trade-Proof Snack” for GoGo squeeZ — featuring a cast of preteen grade-schoolers and absolutely no dialogue — has racked up 6.7 million views since debuting in mid-July. Together with the corresponding 30-second spot, … Continue reading “Explore Media-produced spot goes viral”
Cutters Studios’ “Project For Good” is a companywide inspiration to get creative about dedicating time, talent and resources to create positive change in the world. The first cycle of the ongoing effort is explained in a four-minute film about Bootstrap Villages, a nonprofit organization devoted to building a community of “tiny houses” for the less … Continue reading “Cutters launches “Project For Good””
The US Open’s new “You In?” campaign is an ode to New York City, courtesy of McGarryBowen Chicago.
The buildings, bridges and food trucks of the Big Apple form a literal nighttime backdrop for footage of the event’s legendary action. As players and fans light up walls throughout the city, a voiceover declares, “Only New York can throw a party this big.”
My daughter, Max, is thirsty to see Hamilton.
I am as well, but with a college tuition to pay one has to wonder if it’s worth shelling out hundreds of dead presidents to see a show about dead founding fathers and costs almost as much as her education.
But now, the theater gods are smiling, or singing, because there is now a new app to purchase cheaper Hamilton tickets.
Seven Chicago-produced TV pilots for have been selected for the 2017 New York Television Festival, which will light up the Big Apple in the third week of October. From a candid glimpse at life in the projects to a personal crisis in a suburban basement, the themes reflect a dynamic and exciting Windy City production scene.
Naperville-based Rhea + Kaiser has been keeping more than busy this summer. The full service marketing agency announced a pair of promotions and a pair of new hires in July.
Jack Vos was appointed to vice president, creative director last week. The versatile veteran gained experience the old-fashioned way with Eiseman Johns and Law at the beginning of his career, where his duties as a junior art director included running the mount room.
It’s not the worst of times, but the best of limes as Skittles has finally listened to pleas from customers over social media who begged for the return of the popular flavor after it was replaced with green-apple.
Welcome to “Lime-ageddon!”
At Ad Age’s July 19 Small Agency of the Year Awards in Nashville, Chicago-based The Escape Pod won Gold in “The Midwest Small Agency category.”
The independent agency recently added Chervon’s Skil and Skilsaw brands to its roster, which also includes South Eastern Grocers and a2 milk.
(Cannes, France — 22 June 2017) FCB took home three more Silver Lions and two Bronze on the third night of the Cannes Lions festival. There were five award ceremonies held in – Entertainment, Entertainment for Music, Design, Media and Product Design.
On day two of Cannes, Lions were awarded in Cyber, Direct, Mobile, Innovation and Creative Data.
DigitasLBI brought home the Grand Prix in the Creative Data Category for Whirlpool.
Liz Taylor’s FCB again made a showing for Archer+Wolf, taking a Silver Lion in Direct.
Tomorrow’s Polaroid Wall Party at the Wishbone will bring together many of the pioneers who started building Chicago’s film community long before computers took over the editing suite.
“Everyone wants to see what has become of each other,” says IPA cofounder Scott Jacobs, who organized the 5:30-8:30 p.m. event with Kartemquin, Film Archives and Media Burn Archives.
Free Spirit Media’s Focus event at The Ivy Room on May 31 will feature “a lot of people and a chance to get together and reflect on a great year,” says Chelsea Corbin, FSM’s development & communication manager.
“It’s a big celebration of media in Chicago,” she adds, “specifically, the youth voice.”
One of the greatest causes for celebration will be a sneak peak at the film series Drive Slow, which was made by ten emerging filmmakers in Free Spirit’s Industry Pathways Certification program.
Corbin describes the group as “super talented.”
It wasn’t too long ago that giant recording studios were the norm in Chicago. There was Streeterville, Universal and Paragon.
Now? All gone. But still left standing is CRC. Recently, the recording studio has provided ADR and mixing for films including Hidden Figures, Spike Lee’s Chi-raq and Michael Bay’s Transformers: The Last Knight as well as numerous commercials and podcasts even.
If you ask CRC business affairs director, Dave Dakich, CRC’s continued success is due in part to their constant mix of music artists, films and commercials.
Scott Jacobs, the ebullient former 18-year owner / president / EP of post house IPA in Bucktown paid me a pleasant, nostalgic visit last week to show me how to most effectively use the mobile app for his fascinating “Polaroid Wall.”
THE 70-PLUS GUESTS at ChicPUG’s (Chicago Creative Pro Users Group) Wrap Party last week at the Metropolitan Club cheered lucky member Tony Abasolo when he won the two top raffle prizes valued at $3,100 and two additional prizes.
Abasolo, who is with Apple and a freelance editor, took home the Editors Retreat All Access Pass, valued at $1,900 and the TB ThunderBay 4 RAID 6, a $1,200 value. He also won an AddMotion and a Color Finale Pro.
IF YOU LOVED JOHN HUGHES’ MOVIES you’ll be especially engrossed in the first book ever written about the “philosopher of adolescence,” as Roger Ebert once called him. Jason Diamond, who like Hughes was a North Shore native and suffered painful teen years, has authored “Searching For John Hughes: Or Everything I Thought I Needed to Know About Life, I Learned from Watching 80s’Movies.”
THE FIRST THEATRICAL RUN of Kartemquin’s and Beli Film’s award-winning feature doc, “Raising Bertie” produced and directed by Margaret Byrne, screens Nov. 18-19, at the Gene Siskel Film Center.
Set in North Carolina’s rural Bertie County, the doc is a six-year portrait of three African American boys growing into adulthood as they grapple with unemployment, violence, first love, fatherhood and the complex relationships between generational poverty, economic isolation and educational inequity.
THE CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL calls it a once in a lifetime event Oct. 15 when actress Geraldine Chaplin — the daughter of Charlie Chaplin, who started his illustrious film career in Chicago in 1915, and Oona O’Neil, daughter of writer Eugene O’Neil during the Oct. 13-27 festival.
A massive campaign of 12 unscripted TV, cable and internet spots for insurance provider Network Health Wisconsin (NHW) was edited by boutique post house Hootenanny’s www.hootenanny.tv.
Graham Metzger who also served as creative director while also helming the project’s graphics and design elements.
STAGE 18 WILL MOVE into its specially constructed 3,000-sq. ft. office and stage space in Cinespace’s Center Building at 16th and Rockwell in mid-September.
Says Angie Gaffney, executive director of the year-old film incubator, “We will have our own sound stage available to members, along with large and small offices, common areas, a conference room and kitchen.”
