National independent agency 22squared has created two new director positions to lead expertise and promote growth in the tech and production arenas. Filling those roles are Kris McDermott and Jim Issa as director of technology and director of 22Pictures, respectively. Both McDermott and Issa will report to 22squared president Brandon Murphy.
McDermott comes directly from the San Francisco headquarters of software company Atlassian, where she led M&A integration. Prior, McDermott managed mobile product development at WalmartLabs and served as an engineer for Moxie. She started her career as a designer at Turner Broadcasting in Atlanta, and holds a degree in Film, Video and New Media from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. As director of technology, McDermott will develop the long-term vision for 22squared’s technology capabilities and increase the velocity of client-driven tech solutions.
McDermott commented, “22squared is always looking to evolve. The next chapter places technology at the center of their business. I’m joining the team to build a roadmap that not only magnifies their existing capabilities, but also helps them compete differently in the market.”
Issa joins from BBDO Atlanta, where he was sr. producer and director. At BBDO he partnered with top leadership to build the agency’s in-house production department. Prior, he was with Turner Studios and Zuma Films, in a variety of top production roles. Issa holds a degree in English and Theater from Georgia State University. As director of 22Pictures, Issa will lead the agency’s internal production house, which for the last year has expanded scope and services as a nimble, innovative and cost-effective resource for quality video content. 22Pictures is a full-service production company, with a separate cost-center and talent. It creates high-caliber video for all channels and a variety of brands and clients.
Issa noted, “With the proliferation of social channels and digital experiences across multiple devices and platforms, agencies need to create much more video content, while maintaining a quality consumer experience. The appetite for social content provides an exciting challenge, which 22squared recognized, and an opportunity, which 22Pictures seized. I am excited to build out 22Pictures and provide clients and brands premium video creative, with speed, smarts and cost-efficiency.”
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More