CoMPANY Films has signed directing duo Arni + Kinski–consisting of Stefan Arni and Siggi Kinski–for commercials and branded content. Arni + Kinski’s body of work on the ad front includes campaigns for Volvo, Sealy, Cadillac, Red, Mercedes-Benz, State Farm, Infiniti, GMC, Macy’s, Acura, Budweiser, Coors, Dockers, Old Navy, Toyota, Nissan, Hummer, Milk, GE and Barnes & Noble.
Arni + Kinski’s path to filmmaking came through music. Forming the music-film collective GusGus, the duo found themselves quickly writing and directing short films and stage shows to go with their music. What followed was an explosion of music video work, this time directing for artists such as Snow Patrol, Iggy Pop and Dave Gahan of Depeche Mode. “We shot our short films in Iceland,” said Kinski. “We recorded music, made music videos, live visuals and toured with GusGus for six years. Afterward we went back to focus on filmmaking, which was always our first priority.” The duo has been working with GusGus again since last year, Kinski on the music, both Arni and Kinski on music videos, live shows and art direction.
“I’ve always loved Stefan and Siggi’s work, and have followed them for years. We are friends, and when we re-connected recently, I was really excited to have them join CoMPANY,” said the shop’s executive producer Richard Goldstein. “Their work is gorgeous, moving and memorable. Their casting is authentic. Great, superior storytelling–together, they continue to co-direct some of the most amazing work.”
Prior to joining CoMPANY Films, the Arni + Kinski duo was repped by Wondros in the ad arena.
“Car work with people, yes, “ said Arni on a recent Zoom call. “Intimate stories, cool, creative work…we’re open-minded and love a good challenge. Like our audience, we feel the pull towards longer stories so we love branded content. Stylized high-end brands and campaigns.”
Casting is of utmost importance to the directing team. “The cast represents the people we are speaking to, so they must embody the brand in one way or another,” Kinski said. “They must be believable and authentic. The more we love what’s in front of the camera, the more successful the outcome will be.”
