Dictionary Films has signed director and DP Michael Ognisanti. He had been on the roster of the Chicago-based production company MK Films since 2004, where he was trained as a motion control operator and began assistant-directing and shooting under director Mark Klein. Over these years, Ognisanti built a reputation as a top tabletop director and as a DP for both commercials and documentaries. His commercial credits include spots for Bobble, Bud Light, Coors, Giant Eagle and Golden Corral.
“With budgets and schedules shrinking all the time, versatility is paramount,” said Chris Rossiter, Dictionary managing director. “Michael’s talent as a DP in and beyond tabletop work provides key capabilities that are extremely valuable to us and our clients. I love his tabletop work, and he has already shot as DP for [Dictionary] director Jay Patton on projects that didn’t have a tabletop aspect.”
Before landing with MK, Ognisanti was a videographer and editor at WLAJ-TV in Lansing, Michigan, where he honed his skills in crafting clear and concise visual stories. He is a 2002 graduate of Michigan State University, where he earned his degree in Visual and Media Arts, and he also studied film at the British Film Institute.
The integrated production arm of Cutters Studios, Dictionary Films represents directors through its offices in Los Angeles and Chicago, and together with its partner companies Another Country, Cutters, Flavor and Picnic Media, represents full-service creative capabilities.
“I love the idea of connecting the production and post worlds more completely, and that’s what’s happening at Cutters Studios with Dictionary,” said Ognisanti. “Chicago’s my home and while Cutters and Dictionary are international companies, I love the Chicago film community…so Dictionary being based here is great for me.”
The Many Hires Jeremiah Wassom As Group Creative Director
Independent agency The Many has added Jeremiah Wassom as group creative director.
Wassom most recently worked a decade at Deutsch LA where, as SVP/creative director, he led the Taco Bell account and won new business for the agency. His agency past also includes AKQA and TBWAChiatDay. His creative work has touched the QSR, video games, automotive, fashion, and culture brand sectors. He also served eight years with the United States Marine Corps.
“Throughout his career, Jeremiah has helmed work that has not only made me personally jealous but has consistently pushed brands to show up in memorable and innovative ways,” said Josh Paialii, head of creative at The Many. “One look at his body of work and you will see his passion for storytelling and craft has raised the bar for entire categories, driving participation with many brands’ most loyal fans. Beyond being a world-class creative director and maker, Wassom is a proven team player and strategic thought leader. He’ll be a great addition to the leadership team at The Many working across all accounts. His role will be immediately felt as he guides and supports each of the creative leads in the department.”
A 20-year creative with agency, brand, and freelance experience, Wassom has forged a creative approach which focuses on crafting engaging connections rather than simply make ads. He sees the need for advertising to mean more, not simply do more.
The Many believes that true business growth is made possible by harnessing the power of participation and partners with brands to forge deeper connections with consumers, cultivate trust and loyalty, and maximize marketing spend and execution. The agency is built around a flexible model that offers a suite of capabilities, including... Read More