Production company Rodeo Show has added director Aaron Kodz to its roster for his first U.S. commercial representation. Kodz began his career on a cinematography trajectory and quickly found himself in the director’s chair after his debut piece, “Reach” for the Van Cliburn Foundation, earned acclaim, landing him a slot in the 2014 SHOOT New Directors Showcase, three Telly Awards and a shortlist for the Young Director Awards at Cannes Lions.
Kodz’s passion for exploring the human condition and challenging prevalent ideals and notions is evidenced in his life-affirming social impact work for brands such as New York Yankees, Peace Corps, Acadia National Park and Green Box Machine.
Over the years, Kodz has developed a highly collaborative creative process, informed by his instinctive ability to distill a creative vision to align with brand goals, taking broad concepts and refining them into dynamic, poignant narratives. He has directed campaigns for such clients as Mountain Dew, Goody, Montblanc, Get Out the Vote, Reebok, Foot Locker, and Payless Shoes. Kodz also has work on the horizon for LA Urban Farms.
“Not only does Aaron’s work stand out because of the stunning visual language, but his ability to articulate his creative vision is unmatched,” said Raphael Leopold, exec producer at the Venice Beach-based Rodeo Show. “His viewpoint on transforming production constraints into enhancements is entirely in line with what we’re doing at Rodeo Show.”
Kodz added, “It’s been impressive to see what Raphael has done with Rodeo Show over the past few years. His ‘get it done’ attitude has led to a noticeable surge in quality of work, while still maintaining a boutique approach and highly curated roster.”
NYC-based Kodz attended the prestigious NYU Tisch School of the Arts, where he studied cinematography and film/video production. He has road-tripped to over 40 states, consistently gathering new perspectives and inspiration for his work.
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