Los Angeles–based director Tony Franklin has joined PARAGON for exclusive Midwest representation. Known for his cinematic visual style and emotional storytelling, Franklin has crafted campaigns for global brands including Etsy, BMW, Universal, IBM, WIRED, Purina, Pizza Hut, Gatorade, and Prudential. His latest work is an epic brand film for Riot, blending sweeping visuals and stirring tone.
A San Francisco art school graduate, Franklin began his career as a creative at Target, where he spent more than a decade shaping the retailer’s distinctive visual voice. That brand-side and agency experience continues to inform his directing, emphasizing collaboration, design thinking, and storytelling that connects.
“I feel very connected to the Midwest creative community and am excited to align with PARAGON for representation in what very much feels like a home away from home,” noted Franklin. “They have a trailblazing attitude that aligns with my goal of being fearlessly creative and hyper-passionate about everything I create.”
Franklin’s directing career has earned wide acclaim. He’s been shortlisted twice at The One Show for Best Short Documentary of the Year, screened work at festivals across the U.S., and earned both Best of Show and two Addy Awards from the American Advertising Federation. His documentaries have repeatedly landed on The Atlantic’s “10 Best Short Documentaries of the Year” list, and his latest feature, The Big Green House, a six-year labor of love, is currently screening at festivals worldwide.
“It’s a privilege to represent Tony in the Midwest,” said Jack Linderman, PARAGON founder. “His track record with world-class brands speaks for itself, but what excites us most is his dedication to the craft and to building and lifting up the community. Tony’s commitment to mentoring and creating space for other filmmakers is the kind of ethos we value deeply at PARAGON.”
That community-building extends beyond the set. Franklin founded Filmmakers Forum LA, a monthly meet-up offering networking and industry guest speakers, and co-hosts the We Are Official podcast, now in its second season.
“Networking and access to insight are essential to fostering any creative career,” Franklin added. “Whether interviewing people for a podcast or directing a commercial campaign, it all comes back to making a lasting impression through storytelling.”
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