Warpaint has signed director Paul Stone for commercial representation. This marks his first production company roost as a director. Stone’s work leverages his background as an editor and keen eye for compelling visual storytelling, and encompasses visually rich montage spots and honest docu-style pieces. He has directed as a freelancer campaigns for such brands as Nikon, Instagram, Optimum, Polaroid and Craftsman. The director’s numerous short documentary films include the acclaimed Tales of Times Square, The Prince of Elisabeth Street and The Boombox Project, which was selected as the opening night film for the Hop Hop Legacy Exhibit at the L.A. Grammy Museum during Grammy week and was also selected as a Vimeo Staff Pick. Stone is also the founder of the director-focused interview series, My First Shoot.
Warpaint co-owner and Oscar-nominated filmmaker (Super Size Me) Morgan Spurlock described Stone as “an exceptional storyteller and filmmaker, and we can’t wait to start making some cinemagic with him!”
Stone noted, “Morgan is always breaking new ground in the art of storytelling. His ability to explore new formats is what inspired me to join Warpaint. Morgan is a brand himself, and his talent for producing fun, entertaining, and informative content is a perfect for with the type of projects I enjoy directing.”
Brooklyn-born Stone began his career as an Avid editor at RSA, cutting spots and music videos for the likes of Luke Scott and Michael Moore. Working with numerous top agencies including Crispin Porter + Bogusky and Leo Burnett, his transition into commercials was seamless and he began helming spots freelance. His first short film Tales of Times has screened at over 50 festivals worldwide. Stone recently wrapped Episode One of his new sci-fi web series, The Future Committee, starring Laine Rettmer (Boardwalk Empire). He also recently wrapped production on his latest short, Blood on the Tracks, which explores the rise in NYC subway suicides.
Stone is currently interviewing music icons for the upcoming feature doc version of The Boombox Project.
Oscar and Emmy-Winning Composer Kris Bowers Joins Barking Owl For Advertising, Branded Content
Music, audio post and sonic branding house Barking Owl has taken on exclusive representation of Oscar and Emmy-winning composer Kris Bowers for advertising and branded content.
Bowers’ recent film scores include The Wild Robot and Bob Marley: One Love, alongside acclaimed past works such as The Color Purple (2023), King Richard and Green Book. His contributions to television are equally impressive, with scores for hit series like Bridgerton, When They See Us, Dear White People, and his Daytime Emmy Award-winning score for The Snowy Day.
In addition to his work as a composer, Bowers is a visionary director. He recently took home the Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject for his directorial work on The Last Repair Shop. The emotionally touching short film spotlights four of the people responsible for repairing the musical instruments used by students in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). The Last Repair Shop reflects the positive influence that musical instruments have on the youngsters who play them, and the adults in the LAUSD free repair service who keep them working and in tune.
Barking Owl CEO Kirkland Alexander Lynch said of Bowers, “His artistry, diversity of style and depth of storytelling bring an unparalleled edge to the work we create for global brands. His presence on our roster reflects our continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound and music in advertising.”
Johanna Cranitch, creative director, Barking Owl, added, “Kris first caught my attention when he released his record ‘Heroes + Misfits’ where he fused together his jazz sensibility with a deeply ingrained aptitude for melody, so beautifully.... Read More