When we started iSPOT we were eager to report on all the online video ads that are playing, but video plays practically everywhere now, with mobile providing the biggest opportunity. There are more mobile phones in operation than computers and TVs, too, so it stands to reason that marketers will go there. We’ve reported on the problems with mobile video, from a lack of video enabled phones to carrier plans that charge users to receive videos. But resourceful companies will find a way and The Coca-Cola Company has done it with Sprite Yard, a mobile community that offers a wealth of services and content, including webisodes starring the Lymon characters. We tell the Sprite Yard story in this week’s iChat which features a riveting conversation with Shelley DeVilliers, The Coca-Cola Company’s director, Global Brand Management of the Sprite brand team.
We go to Canada where our iSPOT of the Week takes place. It’s an animated spot that promotes worker safety, gory and infused with blood, which is a good way to get the message across to young workers. The spot is part of a campaign for the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board of Ontario that teamed Canadian agency, DRAFTFCB/Toronto, with an American animation studio, J.J. Sedelmaier Productions.
So drink a Sprite, stay safe at work and make sure to contact us with news that’s relevant to the broadband video advertising community.
Ken Liebeskind, iSPOT Senior Editor, kliebeskind@shootonline.com, 203-227-1699, ext.17 www.shootonline.com/go/ispot
Directors Melissa Bolton-Klinger and Sasie Sealy Join Honor Society For Spots, Branded Content
Production company Honor Society has added directors Melissa Bolton-Klinger and Sasie Sealy to its roster for U.S. representation spanning commercials and branded content. Bolton-Klinger, a director and creative director, brings a diverse portfolio of commercial, TV and film work to her new roost. Her background in improv at L.A.’s The Groundlings informs her fast-paced, sharp, and humorous directing style. She also has a finely honed expertise with celebrity talent and complex shoots. Bolton-Klinger, who was awarded a Grand Clio for her work with Reno 911, kicked off her collaborative efforts at Honor Society with projects for Coffee Mate and Future Forward. She said, “I’m so excited to be joining the Honor Society crew. They’re all about supporting women and taking creative risks, which is exactly where I thrive. With [Honor Society founder and EP] Megan Kelly leading the charge, it’s the ideal spot for me to use my comedic and celebrity-infused powers for good. I’m looking forward to crafting more work that not only gets laughs but leaves a lasting impact.” Prior to joining Honor Society, Bolton-Klinger was repped by production studio Slim. Meanwhile Sealy, who had earlier been repped by production house Bullitt, is an award-winning writer/director celebrated for her striking visuals and witty, original scripts. Her debut feature film Lucky Grandma premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival to critical acclaim and was included in multiple “Best of 2020” lists, such as Indiewire and New York Magazine. Named one of “9 Filmmakers Who Should Be on Your Radar” by The New York Times, Sealy has had her work recognized for its bold, humorous take on the female experience. Her commercial work spans... Read More