Search Results for: sarofsky

Sarofsky evolves its elemental design touches for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

The Sarofsky touch floats like a feather through the opening titles of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is the final installment in the film series’ blockbuster trilogy. Written and directed by James Gunn, and featuring an … Continue reading “Sarofsky evolves its elemental design touches for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”

Nolo Digital Film relocates to Sarofsky Studio

Sarofsky Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky and Mike Matusek, Founder and Colorist at Nolo Digital Film, announce their new strategic partnership. Having just relocated into Sarofsky’s state-of-the-art studio in Chicago’s West Loop, Nolo is now also sharing Sarofsky’s customer service and production resources. As a key part of this new arrangement, Sarofsky’s Managing … Continue reading “Nolo Digital Film relocates to Sarofsky Studio”

Sarofsky promotes Joel Signer, adds producer Will Townsend

One-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky is promoting Senior Producer Joel Signer to Head of Production and adding LA-based Producer Will Townsend to its staff. The news was announced today by the company’s Managing Director/Executive Producer Steven Anderson. A key contributor to the high-profile output of Chicago’s most prolific agencies and studios for the past two … Continue reading “Sarofsky promotes Joel Signer, adds producer Will Townsend”

Michael Giacchino chooses Sarofsky for Marvel’s ‘Werewolf by Night’

Michael Giacchino is already widely acclaimed as the composer behind numerous Oscar-, Emmy-, and Grammy-winning scores for a growing number of feature film and television masterpieces, including eight Pixar movies. Recently released on Disney+, the Marvel Studios Special Presentation Werewolf by Night starring Gael García Bernal, Laura Donnelly, Harriet Sansom Harris, and Eugenie Bondurant represents … Continue reading “Michael Giacchino chooses Sarofsky for Marvel’s ‘Werewolf by Night’”

Aveeno Kids campaign from Doner, The Barkers, and Sarofsky

A new Aveeno Kids cross-media campaign titled Kids Can has recently debuted from full-service advertising agency Doner. With three :15 spots (Dad, Mom, and Curly Hair) and numerous shorter versions, the spots were helmed by the directing team of The Barkers, with animation, VFX, and finishing support from one-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky. Deftly using … Continue reading “Aveeno Kids campaign from Doner, The Barkers, and Sarofsky”

Sarofsky collaborates with the Russo Brothers in The Gray Man

Anthony and Joe Russo, the directors of Ryan Gosling‘s The Gray Man turned to their longstanding collaborators at one-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky for the film’s main title treatment and main-on-end (MOE) title sequence. Ryan Gosling plays Six, the Gray Man and Chris Evans plays Lloyd Hansen, his psychopathic adversary, in the Netflix/AGBO spy thriller … Continue reading “Sarofsky collaborates with the Russo Brothers in The Gray Man”

Sarofsky creates dazzling 3D glass-house main titles for The Staircase

Sarofsky’s dazzling 3D glass house main titles for the HBO Max limited series The Staircase are so captivating that it will make you hit rewind to take another look. Inspired by a true story, the eight-episode Max Original limited series The Staircase, debuted Thursday, May 5 on HBO Max. The Staircase explores the life of … Continue reading “Sarofsky creates dazzling 3D glass-house main titles for The Staircase”

Erin Sarofsky takes us behind the scenes of WeCrashed’s opening titles

The founders of coworking space WeWork, Adam Neumann and Miguel McKelvey, believed they were on the brink of making history. The company was valued at $47 billion dollars, ready for a huge IPO, and charismatic (some would say “over the top”) CEO (cult leader?) Neumann believed he was going to change the world. So, what happened … Continue reading “Erin Sarofsky takes us behind the scenes of WeCrashed’s opening titles”

Sarofsky promotes Anderson, adds design, animation and production staff

Continuing its growth, one-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky has added Managing Director duties for longstanding Executive Producer Steven Anderson. As announced by company Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky, the company is also adding Designer/ Animators Tyler Scheitlin and Mollie Davis, Junior Designer/ Animator Lirio Ramirez, and Production Coordinator Annie Lynch to its full-time staff. According … Continue reading “Sarofsky promotes Anderson, adds design, animation and production staff”

Sarofsky’s main titles for Peacemaker go viral on Facebook

In the opening titles of James Gunn’s new The Suicide Squad spinoff Peacemaker which debuted on HBO Max last month, John Cena’s character performs a show-stopping dance number with his co-stars, colorfully setting the stage for the epic and the unexpected. The title sequence, another creation by the creatives and producers from one-stop cross-media production … Continue reading “Sarofsky’s main titles for Peacemaker go viral on Facebook”

Tom Pastorelle joins Sarofsky as Senior Editor

One-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky is adding Tom Pastorelle to its full-time staff as Senior Editor. The news was announced by company Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky, and Executive Producer Steven Anderson. “We are so thrilled to be adding Tom to our team,” Erin began. “He has edited a lot of amazing projects over the … Continue reading “Tom Pastorelle joins Sarofsky as Senior Editor”

Behind the Scenes of The Suicide Squad with Erin Sarofsky

The Suicide Squad, consider to be the best DC Universe film of all time, is the third James Gunn superhero action adventure for the creatives and producers from one-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky, following Guardians of the Galaxy and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Once again, the assignment presented atypical challenges for Sarofsky’s expertise in typography, … Continue reading “Behind the Scenes of The Suicide Squad with Erin Sarofsky”

Between the Keyframes with Erin Sarofsky & Austin Shaw

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”

Sarofsky & partners win Brand Film Award on doc series

The partners behind A Mystery to Me, an original documentary series created to raise awareness of the rare neuromuscular disease myasthenia gravis (MG), are extremely proud to have earned this year’s Brand Film Award for their project, in the sixth annual program’s Unbranded Healthcare category. Presented to global immunology company argenx along with Sarofsky Pictures, Kartemquin Films, Museum + … Continue reading “Sarofsky & partners win Brand Film Award on doc series”

FCB invites Sarofsky to get creative for Bud Light Chelada

A new festive campaign featuring the refreshed visual identity of Bud Light Chelada from global, award-winning and integrated marketing communications company Foote, Cone & Belding (FCB) has recently debuted across all media. The campaign’s vibrant, masterfully executed “Cheliamos” (:30) and “Ingredient Explosion” (:15) spots were produced in Chicago by one-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky. To … Continue reading “FCB invites Sarofsky to get creative for Bud Light Chelada”

Sarofsky dives deep to celebrate its craft

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”

Sarofsky talks details on doc series, ‘A Mystery to Me’

The filmmakers behind A Mystery to Me, a new documentary series that aims to raise awareness of the rare neuromuscular disease myasthenia gravis (MG), give details on their innovative production approach behind the heartfelt project. Following last month’s debut as part of the Chicago International Film Festival, on Nov. 17, the series will premiere on MG-United.com, … Continue reading “Sarofsky talks details on doc series, ‘A Mystery to Me’”

Sarofsky debuts ‘A Mystery to Me’ original doc series

Chicago’s Sarofsky Pictures new documentary series, A Mystery to Me, aims to raise awareness of the rare neuromuscular disease Myasthenia Gravis (MG). The first episode is scheduled to premiere at the 2020 Chicago International Film Festival. Produced by Chicago’s Sarofsky Pictures and Director Ben Strang (“BEAST”), in association with Kartemquin Films (“Minding the Gap”) and Museum + … Continue reading “Sarofsky debuts ‘A Mystery to Me’ original doc series”

Davis returns to Sarofsky as VFX/Finishing Supervisor

Continuing its growth and its investments into excellence, design-driven production company Sarofsky is proud to announce the return of Cory Davis to its full-time staff. According to company Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky and Executive Producer Steven Anderson, Cory’s new title is VFX and Finishing Supervisor. Most recently 2D Lead Artist at The … Continue reading “Davis returns to Sarofsky as VFX/Finishing Supervisor”

Sarofsky adds Creative Director Stefan Draht

Sarofsky, with a reputation for breakthrough design, adds Creative Director Stefan Draht to its full-time staff. Continuing its growth and its investments into excellence, design-driven production company Sarofsky is adding Creative Director Stefan Draht to its full-time staff. The news was announced by company Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky, and Executive Producer Steven Anderson. “Adding another creative … Continue reading “Sarofsky adds Creative Director Stefan Draht”

The New Normal – Sarofsky Studios

Editor’s Note: The world changed right before our very eyes. In a span of three weeks, movie theaters closed. Restaurants went to delivery or take-out only. Non-essential businesses shut down. States ordered individuals to stay home. Unemployment has skyrocketed. Wall Street is shook. Disneyland and Disneyworld closed indefinitely. We now work, live, exercise and entertain … Continue reading “The New Normal – Sarofsky Studios”

Zevia Partners with Haberman & Sarofsky for Zevia Kidz

Please tell me this isn’t just for kids. Zevia, a leading zero sugar, zero calorie beverage company, recently kicked off the integrated spot-market campaign heralding the release of its new product line, Zevia Kidz. The ‘It’s Everything You Wished For’ campaign was conceived and brought to life by full-service marketing agency Haberman, through digital video, digital banners and … Continue reading “Zevia Partners with Haberman & Sarofsky for Zevia Kidz”

Burnett, Sarofsky kick off new Pedialyte campaign

Gator-who? Power-what? I did not know this. Apparently for the last 50 years, Pedialyte, from Abbott Park, IL-based Abbott, has served as the go-to rehydration solution for athletes. A huge Pedialyte fan, Cleveland Browns wide receiver, Odell Beckham Jr. has teamed up with the over-the-counter brand to tell the story of its unprecedented rehydration results. … Continue reading “Burnett, Sarofsky kick off new Pedialyte campaign”

Sarofsky adds SXSW winner Ben Strang to roster

Chicago-based, design-driven production shop expands with California based, award-winning creator of “Beast” Continuing its growth and its investments into excellence, design-driven production company Sarofsky is adding Ben Strang to its directorial roster. The news was announced by company Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky, and Executive Producer Steven Anderson. Based in Santa Monica, Ben … Continue reading “Sarofsky adds SXSW winner Ben Strang to roster”

Jake Allen expands design horizon at Sarofsky

Senior 3D Designer/Animator brings huge creative and technical expertise to Chicago-based design-driven shop Continuing its growth and its investments into excellence, design-driven production company Sarofsky is adding Senior 3D Designer/Animator Jake Allen to its full-time staff. The news was announced by company Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky, and Creative Lead Duarte Elvas. Jake … Continue reading “Jake Allen expands design horizon at Sarofsky”

Sarofsky expands roster by adding The Barkers

Design driven production company adds a versatile duo that wields cutting-edge platform and major brand experience Continuing its growth and its investments into excellence, design-driven production company Sarofsky is adding the dynamic directing team The Barkers to its roster. The news was announced by company Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky, and Executive Producer … Continue reading “Sarofsky expands roster by adding The Barkers”

Announcing Sarofsky Labs: A Weekend Workshop Series

“The goals are to immerse students … teach invaluable working knowledge … and help produce a portfolio-worthy project.” Erin Sarofsky   (Chicago — 14 November 2018)  Erin Sarofsky and her colleagues at the Chicago-based design-driven production company Sarofsky have just announced the launch of Sarofsky Labs: A Weekend Workshop Series. The series’ first monthly installment … Continue reading “Announcing Sarofsky Labs: A Weekend Workshop Series”

Sarofsky creates titles for ‘Full Frontal w/Samantha Bee’

A monumental surprise will greet “Full Frontal with Samantha Bee” fans when the show’s new main title sequence begins to roll. (Chicago / New York 13 — September 2018) Chicago creative entrepreneur Erin Sarofsky and the team at her eponymous production company designed and directed the new 20-second introduction for Full Frontal with Samantha Bee. … Continue reading “Sarofsky creates titles for ‘Full Frontal w/Samantha Bee’”

Reel Women: Erin Sarofsky, ECD / entrepreneur

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, innovative … Continue reading “Reel Women: Erin Sarofsky, ECD / entrepreneur”

CFA campaign by Ogilvy and Sarofsky goes global

Design-driven creative production company Sarofsky (Guardians of the Galaxy 2, Captain America: Civil War, The After Party) was commissioned by Ogilvy Chicago and investment management company, CFA Institute to create an ambitious series of :15-second animated digital videos that broke on the brand’s YouTube Channel and in various other broadcast and online placements worldwide. On … Continue reading “CFA campaign by Ogilvy and Sarofsky goes global”

YouTube Red enlists Sarofsky for series intro

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”

Sarofsky makes friends for new Netflix series

The new Netflix original series, Friends from College, from writer/director Nicholas Stoller (Neighbors, Forgetting Sarah Marshall) and spouse/co-writer Francesca Delbanco (Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Get Him to the Greek) finally debuted earlier this month.

Directed and executive produced by Stoller, the eight-episode show delves into interwoven and complicated relationships, including former romantic entanglements and comedic explorations of old bonds. As everyone tries to manage their lives as adults, they also experience nostalgia.

Sarofsky’s design innovation continues to Marvel

Since early May, the Marvel Studios’ blockbuster Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 has taken movie theaters by storm.

With the return of Peter Quill, Rocket, Baby Groot, Gamora, Drax the Destroyer and friends to the big screen thanks to screenwriter, director and producer James Gunn, fans of great design worldwide have seized the opportunities to see the talents of Sarofsky — the Chicago-based, design driven production company — shine.

VFX artists Davis and Tiffany join Sarofsky’s staff

TWO FREELANCE VFX DESIGNERS were hired by design-driven company Sarofsky: Visual effects and finishing artist Cory Davis and designer Dan Tiffany, Erin Sarofsky and EP Steven Anderson announced.

For the past two years, Davis has been an integral contributor to Sarofsky’s title sequences for a number of Marvel Studios, from “Ant-Man” to its latest work for the $130 million, just-released “Doctor Strange,” starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

David Orr of STORY creates mesmerizing visuals for Nick Cave’s ‘Wood Dove’

Visual artist David Orr, designer/director at Chicago-based STORY, weaves a single bird’s feather into a shimmering kaleidoscope of incredible complexity and stunning beauty in a video accompanying the new Nick Cave song Wood Dove.  Produced by Cave with longtime collaborator Warren Ellis, the song is one of 242 recordings included in a new compilation titled For the … Continue reading “David Orr of STORY creates mesmerizing visuals for Nick Cave’s ‘Wood Dove’”

Reel Women: Executive Creative Director at 1o8, Jen Bills

Editor’s Note: Five years ago we had an idea. Being a woman-owned publication, it made sense to celebrate women who were making a difference in the industries we cover. So, we started a feature for Women’s History Month called “Reel Women.” Over the last four years, we have gotten to know leaders, mentors and visionaries … Continue reading “Reel Women: Executive Creative Director at 1o8, Jen Bills”

Jake Allen hired as ACD as Demo Duck adds to staff

Demo Duck has welcomed Jake Allen as a new ACD as they continue to make a variety of advancements and new hires. Allen is a Chicago native who graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design, and brings his rich experience in design, motion graphics, and 2D and 3D animation to the Demo Duck team—along … Continue reading “Jake Allen hired as ACD as Demo Duck adds to staff”

Industry Days schedule and keynotes at Chicago International Film Festival

The 58th Chicago International Film Festival, presented by Cinema / Chicago, announced the program and schedule for Industry Days, running October 13-16. Now in its 8th year, the four-day conference is the Festival’s hub for filmmakers and professionals to connect, share ideas, and find inspiration.  “By bringing the film community together in Chicago, Industry Days has … Continue reading “Industry Days schedule and keynotes at Chicago International Film Festival”

Flavor opens Half Rez 9 with stunning film ‘Long live Mograph’

To entice and energize attendees of the ninth edition of their celebrated motion graphics design event in Chicago, the illustrious organizers of this year’s Half Rez came together around a provocative theme: Mograph is Dead. Long live Mograph! From the official website: “The world of motion graphics has evolved at such a fast pace in … Continue reading “Flavor opens Half Rez 9 with stunning film ‘Long live Mograph’”

I Got Love campaign for Illinois Cares for Kids does everything right

The 1o8 I Got Love inaugural statewide advertising campaign for Illinois Cares for Kids is an artistic collaboration. The spot showcases vibrant Illinois talent in a charming animated video which introduces a fresh, modern rendition of the Nat King Cole classic song, I Got Love. 1o8, the Chicago commerce-driven creative agency, tapped the talents of Illinois … Continue reading “I Got Love campaign for Illinois Cares for Kids does everything right”

Netflix releases Our Great National Parks limited series with Barack Obama

Netflix releases an epic five-part series narrated by President Barack Obama that invites viewers to celebrate and discover the power of our planet’s greatest national parks and wild spaces. From the executive producer of Blue Planet II comes OUR GREAT NATIONAL PARKS, a breathtaking five-part series executive produced and narrated by President Barack Obama – who ​​protected … Continue reading “Netflix releases Our Great National Parks limited series with Barack Obama”

Banner expands their roster and capabilities with new hires

Banner expands roster and capabilities with additions to production and post production teams. The crew at Chicago-based digital content studio, Banner is growing with the additions of Luke Pollard a Senior Artist, Mo’Tastem Awad an award winning Filmmaker and Director of Photography, Chris Scudder an Editor, and Justine Burchall a Cinematographer and Editor. Luke Pollard … Continue reading “Banner expands their roster and capabilities with new hires”

Two by Four names Korie Brown to position of Group Media Director 

Independent, full-service agency Two by Four is continuing to assemble a powerhouse leadership team in their Chicago office. The agency announced today that Korie Brown has been named to the new position of Group Media Director, reporting to Jessica Romaniuk who was named President of the Chicago office in October. The new position is indicative of Two … Continue reading “Two by Four names Korie Brown to position of Group Media Director “

Vance Malone and John Marx launch Blue Label Productions

Longtime Director/Producer team Vance Malone and John Marx have made it official, partnering to launch their own boutique production company, Blue Label Productions. Malone, an award-winning director of commercials, content and short films, is renowned for a body of work with evocative performances and stylish visuals, while Marx enjoys a reputation as one of the industry’s … Continue reading “Vance Malone and John Marx launch Blue Label Productions”

Roger joins forces with SG+Partners for midwest representation

Creative agency Roger has signed with SG+Partners for Midwest commercial representation. Roger joins a collective of premier production, post, and VFX talent represented by SG+Partners, led by Sarah Gitersonke.  “Combining top-tier talent, animation, live-action, and editorial, Roger is a fully integrated powerhouse that’s been on fire lately with their latest for Disney+, HBO, and General Mills,” says Gitersonke, who … Continue reading “Roger joins forces with SG+Partners for midwest representation”

New book by PR guru, Roger Darnell helps build your dream career

Anyone with a cell phone, WiFi, and the desire to communicate can achieve the astronomical. Drawing on his success as a freelance communications consultant, author Roger Darnell has written a new book for professionals and students who want to improve their prospects in business. Published by Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group, The Communications Consultant’s Foundation prepares … Continue reading “New book by PR guru, Roger Darnell helps build your dream career”

Cox & FCB bring families together with The Hug Project

As the world reemerges, people can begin to connect again, but for those who are immunocompromised, social distancing and separation extend past the pandemic. As a technology company — and a human company — Cox Communications aims to be a part of the solution to safely help families that are unable to reunite in person. … Continue reading “Cox & FCB bring families together with The Hug Project”

The Mill announces Patrick Coleman as Head of Design

Creative production studio The Mill announced Patrick Coleman as their new Head of Design in Chicago.  With over a decade of experience with a focus in 3D motion design, Coleman’s beginnings began at OPTIMUS in 2004. He then went on to become Creative Director at Sarofsky. Since 2017, Coleman has been working closely with The Mill’s … Continue reading “The Mill announces Patrick Coleman as Head of Design”

Barbizon shares list of support resources for the industry

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”

Leviathan creates dynamic artistry for Canopy at 900 N

The Canopy at Chicago’s iconic upscale retail destination 900 North Michigan Shops was unveiled in late 2017 as a key part of a major reimagining of the 465,000 square foot shopping center. The unique media-architecture installation, consisting of ten LED digital skylights spanning 190 linear feet, delivers unexpected, compelling artistic video to shoppers on all … Continue reading “Leviathan creates dynamic artistry for Canopy at 900 N”

When Dressed for Success means pajamas

Editor’s Note: The world changed right before our very eyes. We now work, live, exercise and entertain ourselves in our homes. This is the new normal. In this new on-going series, we check in on ad agencies, production companies, post-houses, and anyone else who wants to talk about their personal experiences during this coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. Anne … Continue reading “When Dressed for Success means pajamas”

ChiFilmFest announces 2019 audience winners

‘Just Mercy,’ ‘And Then We Danced,’ ‘Ready for War’ take top honors at 55th Chicago International Film Festival   The Chicago International Film Festival today announced the winners of the Festival Audience Awards, presented by Xfinity. Voted by Festival-goers, the Audience Award for Best Feature goes to Just Mercy by director Destin Daniel Cretton. The … Continue reading “ChiFilmFest announces 2019 audience winners”

‘Three Hours’ wins ChiFilmFest’s $20K Pitch

Aemilia Scott, Holli McGinley film follows a single mother living on the edge of Chicago’s Humboldt Park The 55th Chicago International Film Festival has announced the winner of The Pitch at the 5th edition of Industry Days: Three Hours, directed by Aemilia Scott and produced by Holli McGinley. The film follows a single mother living … Continue reading “‘Three Hours’ wins ChiFilmFest’s $20K Pitch”

ChiFilmFest announces slate for “The Pitch”

Five film projects to compete for $20,000 awards package of in-kind goods and services   The 55th Chicago International Film Festival announced a slate of five narrative feature film projects in active development that will be pitched in front of a live audience and a panel of distinguished industry judges during the Festival’s Industry Days … Continue reading “ChiFilmFest announces slate for “The Pitch””

Carbon strengthens roster across the USA

Key hires and promotions reinforce new Chicago studio and seamless continental workflow Visual effects and design studio Carbon is proud to announce the promotion of Phil Linturn to Managing Director of Carbon North America and Gretchen Praeger to Executive Producer of the Chicago office. Additionally, the company is excited to announce new hires including Jeff … Continue reading “Carbon strengthens roster across the USA”

ChiFilmFest unveils Industry Days agenda

Master Classes with Oscar and Sundance winners are just a few of the events scheduled for October 17-20 program     The 55th Chicago International Film Festival announced today the program for Industry Days (October 17-20, 2019) with an impressive list of guest speakers to inspire and illuminate the film and entertainment community.   A … Continue reading “ChiFilmFest unveils Industry Days agenda”

ChiFilmFest unveils Gala & Special Presentations programs

“Knives Out” starring Daniel Craig among first round of films announced for 55th run, October 16-27 Mimi Plauché, Artistic Director of the Chicago International Film Festival, today announced titles selected for the Galas and Special Presentations programs for the 55th edition of the Festival. Offering movie lovers a first look at the year’s most highly … Continue reading “ChiFilmFest unveils Gala & Special Presentations programs”

NFL’s Prescott, Barkley are “Champions of Chunky”

The NFL season is upon us and so are campaigns featuring NFL stars. Leo Burnett has teamed with Optimus to create Campbell’s Chunky soup’s gridiron effort, called “Champions of Chunky.” The official soup sponsor of the NFL’s spot, directed by Caviar’s Jonathan Krisel, features Dallas Cowboy QB Dak Prescott and New York Giants RB Saquon … Continue reading “NFL’s Prescott, Barkley are “Champions of Chunky””

Rodgers, Mahomes talk agents in new State Farm work

Football is back, thank god. As a Bears’ fan, I’m not thrilled that the Cheeseheads beat the them 10 – 3 last night during the NFL opener. But at least one Chicago team won last night and that would be DDB Chicago with their goofy new State Farm work that features rival QB’s Aaron Rodgers … Continue reading “Rodgers, Mahomes talk agents in new State Farm work”

The year’s biggest posts about commercials

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”

A look back at the stories that defined 2018

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”

Leviathan announces massive staff expansion

The Chicago-based, specialized creative agency adds staff in creative, account, production and development disciplines   (Chicago — 5 November 2018) The principals of specialized creative agency Leviathan are very proud to announce several key new hires and promotions expanding their creative, account management, production and digital development strengths. The full-time staff additions include ACD Branded … Continue reading “Leviathan announces massive staff expansion”

Merman’s Brad Turner helms IBM film ‘Outage’

Mobile technology’s impact on humanity comes to life in IBM Mobile’s thrilling interactive film, Outage created in partnership with Los Angeles-based Merman and directed by Brad Turner for Ogilvy New York. The director of Homeland, 24, and Designated Survivor, Turner applied his talent for high intensity narratives and passion for innovation in this one of … Continue reading “Merman’s Brad Turner helms IBM film ‘Outage’”

United debuts Olympic / Paralympic campaign

United Airlines’ new advertising campaign for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic team is a fantastic combination of marketing, production, and support. Superheroes, created by mcgarrybowen’s New York office, celebrates the efforts of six employees and six athletes who will help the U.S. travel to and compete in the 2018 Winter Games, beginning on February 9 … Continue reading “United debuts Olympic / Paralympic campaign”

Cutters, The Mill, The After Party in the news

Cutters Detroit promotes Grosjean Executive Producer Mary Connolly and Managing Director Kurt Kulas announced last week that Cutters Studios Detroit office has promoted Justin Grosjean to editor. Grosjean first joined the company four years ago as an intern. However, he was already in the global spotlight for creative production. In 2012, Justin and his twin … Continue reading “Cutters, The Mill, The After Party in the news”

Northwestern Healthcare names Modesto marketing head

NORTHWESTERN MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE hired a new marketing officer: veteran Chicago adman Mark Modesto, who joined from his role as CEO of Ryan Partnership. He will oversee marketing relations for the hospital’s network of seven affiliated Chicago area hospitals.

“With Mark’s considerable experience,” said President / CEO Dean Harrison, “he will be able to elevate the Northwestern medical brand experience for the patients and communities we are privileged to serve.”

Burnett agency Arc gets top tier leadership overhaul

TOP ECHELON CHANGES in the leadership team at Leo Burnett’s Arc have put Chris Cancilla into the US CCO seat. Karuna Rawal was promoted to Arc US president and Chief Strategy Officer of Arc Worldwide, while Bob Raidt was upped from global president to global CEO.

Cancilla will oversee 150 employees in Arc’s US office and has the responsibility for driving the agency’s creative culture. He reports to Britt Nolan, Leo Burnett new US CCO.

Clorox business returns to FCB after 20 year absence

IT’S A WELCOME HOMECOMING for the massive Clorox portfolio of brands, globally, which has moved back to FCB after a 20 year run with DDB, following an account review that began last December.

The account spent $269 million on measured media on its main brand in 2015.

The household product giant ended its 71-year relationship with FCB’s San Francisco office in 1996 when it consolidated its business at DDB. It was billing $71 million at that time.

Quartet of filmmakers are WIF’s Focus Award honorees

Chicago native Shira Piven, now of LA, is one of four prominent leaders in film and advertising who will be honored at Women in Film Chicago’s annual Focus Awards at a luncheon Wednesday, Nov. 5 at the Museum of Broadcast Communications. 

The three outstanding local leaders receiving the honor are Susan Credle, Leo Burnett’s chief creative officer; Erin Sarofsky, film company owner and creative director, and Cristina Varotsis, feature producer and unit production manager on features and TV shows. 

Sears Optical sees fresh approach to storytelling

It’s a basic axiom.  If advertising campaigns don’t get refreshed, they usually get stale.  And when ad campaigns become stale, that usually means consumers become less interested in them. The work doesn’t get noticed. 

And worst of all, product sales can be negatively impacted.

For the past three years, Sponge/Chicago has been playing with a cute concept for client Sears Optical, an eye wear unit at Sears that, per a licensing agreement, is part of Luxottica, the world’s largest eyewear company.