Director Vincent René-Lortie has joined The Corner Shop for representation in the U.S. and U.K./Amsterdam. This marks his first career representation in those markets.
A breakthrough director from Canada, René-Lortie has been recognized with a D&AD Graphite Pencil for Best Direction on the basis of Simon Leoza’s “La Nuèe” and a UKMVA 2020 Best Choreography (for Brittney Canda) on the strength of Sheena Ko’s “Wrap Me Up”
René-Lortie’s most recent Young Director Awards Gold in Video Art for the dance short film “Sit Still” which re-imagines how choreography can work in narratives. He navigates the inner emotions of seven-year old Adeline, expressing herself purely through street dance Krump, replacing the traditional beat-centric style with an introspective score by Alaskan Tapes, compelling listeners to hear what she has to say.
Anna Hashmi, founder and executive producer at The Corner Shop, said, “There is something magical about Vincent’s work, that makes time and phone calls just stop as you get drawn into the worlds and stories he creates. We are excited and feel privileged to work with such a breakthrough talent.”
René-Lortie said, “All my discussions with Anna and Chia (EP Tucker) in the U.K. have proven that they are so committed to the craft of film, its artistry, and process. But above all, their human and honest values are felt through all their projects, which is really important to me. I feel that I am only at the beginning of my directorial career in the advertising world and I can’t wait to be able to learn and create alongside their team.”
Director John Larigakis Joins Strike Anywhere For His 1st U.S. Spot Representation
Strike Anywhere has added filmmaker John Larigakis to its talent roster, marking his first U.S. commercial representation. He continues to be repped in Canada by production house BOLDLY.
Larigakis first established himself on the agency side of the business where he spent 15 years, including serving as a sr. art director at DDB Canada and then a creative director at 123w before making a seamless transition to directing commercials..
Conceptual and highly art-directed, Larigakis’ style focuses on comedic surrealism grounded in reality. By counterbalancing the outlandish and colorful setting with deadpan performances, the key to his commercials is the metaphorical twist on the core concept, ultimately yielding a funny film. His stylistic vision is often brought to life through custom props, 3D animation, physical comedy, and practical effects to craft imaginative environments and memorable characters.
As a director, Larigakis recently won a Berlin Commercial Award for his work with Extra Gum. He’s also helmed films for brands like Starbucks, Nintendo Switch, Playland, and Sandman Hotels. Throughout his career in advertising, Larigakis has developed work that has won six Cannes Lions, 12 One Show Pencils, six D&AD Pencils, and six Clios.
“I’m a big fan of Strike Anywhere’s approach, their mix of strong advertising and film projects, and most importantly, the team,” remarked Larigakis. “They are genuinely passionate about helping directors grow and develop their careers, and I’m at a stage where I’m excited to continue crafting my skills in new areas.”
Ryan Simon, founding partner of Strike Anywhere, added, “At Strike Anywhere, comedy is key to company growth, and we’re elevating the game by joining forces... Read More