Production agency Team Bubbly has signed director Justin Ongeri for commercials, branded content and music videos. This marks his first U.S. representation.
The catalyst for Ongeri’s directing career began three years ago when he directed a Binki music video for the song “Clay Pigeon.” Since then, Ongeri’s work has earned notability for its ability to synthesize ideas and concepts, transcending the boundaries between music videos and commercials while maintaining his unique point of view. Other directorial credits include Binki’s latest video “Freakin’” as well as a music clip for Spencer Barnett, “Swank.” Ongeri also directed a brand film for Team Bubbly celebrating 10 years of business titled “A Sense of Agency–A Team Bubbly Story.” He helmed that film prior to officially joining the company’s roster. In fact he collaborated with Team Bubbly in various capacities for about a year before formally coming into the company fold.
In a joint statement, Team Bubbly partners/executive producers Andres Rojas and Frank Siringo shared, “Watching Justin’s process firsthand has deepened our admiration for him as a filmmaker. His ability to fully immerse himself in a project is inspiring. We’re thrilled to have Justin join our director’s roster and share his passion and dedication with our commercial partners.”
Ongeri, a self-taught filmmaker, added, “Andres and Frank embody the spirit of filmmaking. They’re willing to take risks on ideas, projects, and people, which is more important to me than any outcome of a video. I’m looking forward to working with them in a larger capacity to tackle even bigger challenges with my own work.”
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