Taraji P. Henson’s Newest Role? VintnerThe star talks about her new venture at Seven Daughters Moscato. Brand launch campaign directed & photographed by Synthetic’s Knoxy Knox

November 15th, 2024

Golden Globe—winning and Academy Award—nominated actress Taraji Henson is also a New York Times best-selling author, entrepreneur and style icon. And after a recent trip to Italy, Henson decided to add vintner to her bio by starting a new wine brand.

Known for dramatic roles in movies like "Hidden Figures" and the TV series "Empire", Henson partnered with the Terlato Wine Group on the existing brand Seven Daughters. It’s a clever partnership for both sides—Henson will give the existing brand a much-needed refresh, with a new bottle and logo, and Seven Daughters’ Moscato, originally launched in 2006, will benefit from the actor’s clout. The $15 expression of Moscato is from the Veneto region in northern Italy.

Photo Credit: Knoxy Knox

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Exclusive: Taraji P. Henson Is About To Make Moscato Your Favorite Wine AgainBrand Launch Campaign Directed & Photographed by Synthetic’s Knoxy Knox

November 15th, 2024

A number of celebrities have entered into the wine and spirits realm lately, trying their hand at creating bourbons, tequilas, rum, and more. Taraji P. Henson is the latest to throw her hat in the ring, and she may be the most relatable of them all.

The Academy Award-nominated actress has partnered up with wine brand Seven Daughters, coming on board as a strategic advisor and creative collaborator. With the support of the Terlato Wine Group, she’s been hands-on in changing the look of the popular Moscato, infusing the new design with some of her favorite things. She’s also been integral in making sure the taste is a treat for the palate of her many fans.

Photo Credit: Knoxy Knox

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SHOOT: Oscar-Nominated Filmmaker Sam French Joins Synthetic Pictures For Spots, Branded Content

AUSTIN, TEX. & LOS ANGELES – Synthetic Pictures, which has bases of operation in Los Angeles and Austin, has taken on North American commercial and branded content representation for docu-style storytelling and international action/adventure director Sam French. 

French currently lives in Los Angeles. Previously, he spent five years in Afghanistan where he wrote and directed the Academy Award-nominated narrative short film, BUZKASHI BOYS. Most recently, his feature-length documentary, WITH THIS BREATH I FLY, about two heroic Afghan women fighting for freedom after being imprisoned for “moral crimes,” has played in more than 20 festivals worldwide, and won 10 awards, including the Special Jury Award at Salem Film Festival, the Spirit of Activism Award at SF DocFest, and the Audience Award at Austin Film Festival. International humanitarian and Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie signed on as executive producer of the film. 

“I have known Sam and his powerful directing work for some time,” said Synthetic executive producer Allison Smith. “I had been following his journey with his most recent groundbreaking feature doc, WITH THIS BREATH I FLY, and was just floored by his bravery and honesty as a filmmaker. He’s a director who seeks authenticity and cross-cultural connections that have the potential to really elevate work in our industry of commercial and branded content storytelling.”  

French has also directed episodes of the Emmy-nominated documentary series RELIGION OF SPORTS, the Emmy-nominated series WHY WE FIGHT, and the Red Bull series, ALL IN, and LIFE OF KAI. His award-winning directing work has appeared on HBO, BBC, CNN, Channel 4 News, Al Jazeera, National Geographic and many other broadcast outlets.  

“The timing was finally right for us to start working together,” said French, who has been friends with Smith and Synthetic owner Justin Corsbie for several years in Los Angeles. “I’ve always been impressed with the work Synthetic Pictures produces, and I couldn’t imagine a better home. Allison and Justin have as much passion as I do for the art of storytelling, and I’m looking forward to bringing my character-focused docu-style approach to the company so we can collaborate on creating compelling narratives that connect with audiences.” 

While signing on with Synthetic is his first official foray into commercial representation, French will continue his work in both documentary and scripted features. He is currently in early production on the documentary Dominion, which follows a new generation of evangelical climate activists fighting against their parents’ identity politics to save God’s creation, as well as other narrative feature writing and additional entertainment projects. 

Founded in 2002, Synthetic Pictures is a boutique production company that has produced work for clients including Ford, Toyota, Starbucks, Shell, Amazon, Samsung, Nissan, Dairy Queen, Burger King, P&G, Kellogg’s, and Vegas Tourism. Synthetic’s indie feature film, HARD LUCK LOVE SONG, was released in theaters nationwide in fall 2021 by Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate. French joins Synthetic’s diverse roster of live action directors, accompanied by post and visual effects division SP/FX. 

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LA Times Review: Its voice is ragged, but "Hard Luck Love Song" hits so many right notes

Tom Petty sang, “Even the losers get lucky sometimes,” and that’s about as succinctly as one can describe the richly detailed and fully inhabited “Hard Luck Love Song.”

This indie drama with winks of cockeyed humor stars Michael Dorman (unforgettably great in Amazon’s brilliant “Patriot”) as Jesse, a good-hearted guy who rolls into town smelling of blown shots. One of the many things we’ll learn about Jesse is the bad fortune that follows him is largely of his making, despite a sunny disposition and moments of genuine kindness. The director’s note describes him as “a deeply flawed everyman,” but he has talents not every man has and flaws that would sink most.

He isn’t here by accident. He hopes to reunite with his lost love, Carla (Sophia Bush), who has traveled a rough road of her own. It’s a shame to tell even that much, as the way information unfolds in the film is one of its pleasures — first-time feature director and co-writer Justin Corsbie’s storytelling can be lovely, slow-burningly tense or jarringly violent, whatever best serves the moment. You could call the filmmaking “lyrical,” and you’d be doubly right: The music-infused movie is both beautifully expressed and based on one particularly well-observed song, “Just Like Old Times” by Todd Snider. Snider’s performance of the song during the closing credits reveals the surprising amount the film takes directly from it (I recommend not hearing the song before watching the film for just that reason).

LINK >

Deadline Hollywood: Roadside Attractions Acquires "Hard Luck Love Song", Sets Fall Release For Romantic Thriller Starring Michael Dorman & Sophia Bush

July 19, 2021 — Los Angeles, CA

Roadside Attractions has acquired Hard Luck Love Song, with plans to release the crime thriller exclusively in theaters on October 15.

Justin Corsbie’s debut feature was inspired by the song “Just Like Old Times” by acclaimed singer-songwriter Todd Snider.

The gritty modern-day love story follows Jesse (Michael Dorman), a charismatic but down-on-his-luck troubadour living out of cheap motels and making bad decisions. Jesse finds himself at an existential crossroads during a chance encounter with his old flame Carla (Sophia Bush), as their complicated past and current troubles threaten to destroy their blissful reunion.

The character-driven feature also stars Dermot Mulroney, Brian Sacca, Melora Walters, Eric Roberts and hip-hop icon RZA.

LINK >

Shots: Synthetic Pictures adds Michael Paul JonesOutdoor adventure and automotive director Michael Paul Jones joins the Synthetic Pictures roster.

Montana-based director Michael Paul Jones has traveled an adventurous directing path, from filming vehicles in remote and wild places, to capturing backcountry snowboarding, surfing, and rock climbing, and the many sand dunes, hiking treks, fly fishing and biking trails in between. 

Now, he’s taking those skills to his new production home, Austin and LA-based 

Synthetic Pictures. Jones joins Synthetic with an impressive body of directing work, including commercials for clients such as Ford, Toyota, Subaru, Chevy, Nike, New Balance, Patagonia, Yeti, JC Penney and NBC.

“We saw Michael’s work and immediately got excited not just about his skills as an automotive specialist, but also about the way he weaves energy and creativity into his storytelling. It’s both beautiful and feels totally natural, as if the camera always belonged riding along with that sand surfer or under the water spearfishing. He gives us an eye into what we might not otherwise see and tells the authentic stories of the drivers, athletes and enthusiasts living them,” says Synthetic Pictures Executive Producer Allison R. Smith. “Plus, his positive, can-do attitude is just the best!”

LINK >

Jeannie Roshar’s segment directing on NBC’s "Making It”

June 24, 2021 – Los Angeles, CA

Synthetic Pictures Director Jeannie Roshar makes her network television debut with NBC's Making It featuring Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman.

June 22, 2021 – Los Angeles, CA

Synthetic Pictures Director Jako's campaign for Porsche, "The Soul Within," has gone on to win the Silver Telly award for Branded Content. We are immensely proud of our colleague. View the spot in this window.

Read more by visiting: https://www.tellyawards.com/winners/2021/branded-content/campaign-series-non-scripted-documentary/the-soul-within/247607/

SYNTHETIC DIRECTOR JEANNIE ROSHAR LEADS “GREY AREA” VENN TV SHOWIN ROSHAR’S WRITER’S ROOM: “NOTHING IS OFF LIMITS"

July 22, 2020 — Los Angeles, CA

Actress Sasha Grey isn’t avoiding any of the hard questions in her new TV show, Grey Area. With a writer’s room led by head writer & creative producer, Synthetic’s Jeannie Roshar, Grey isn’t holding back.

“Know all those questions that you’re too embarrassed to ask? Well, you’re not alone and you can ask me anything,” Grey, 32, begins in the trailer for the series, which she will co-host alongside rapper Jon “Dumbfoundead” Park, 34…

Grey, currently a DJ, novelist and actress, got her start in the pornographic film industry, winning several awards for her work between 2006 and 2009. Later, she starred in The Girlfriend Experience and played a fictionalized version of herself on HBO’s Entourage.

Grey Area, premiering Aug. 5 on Venn TV, will follow Grey and Dumbfoundead as they consult friends, celebrities and experts to discuss topics like relationships, dating, social media and more.

To see the Grey Area Trailer, click here

To read the full article, please click here.

Or visit: https://people.com/tv/see-actress-sasha-grey-tackle-the-hard-questions-in-new-trailer-for-grey-area-nothing-is-off-limits/

SYNTHETIC’S JUSTIN CORSBIE DIRECTS GOLF LEGEND PHIL MICKELSON IN CALLAWAY GOLF “MAVRIK" CAMPAIGNCOMEDY SPOT TO BE FEATURED DURING HISTORIC LIVE EVENT “THE MATCH” TO BENEFIT COVID-19 RELIEF.

May 24, 2020 - Los Angeles, CA

Synthetic Pictures founding director Justin Corsbie is known for being very detail-focused while directing subtle and smart humorous performances with stylish visuals. That approach matched up perfectly with legendary golfer Phil Mickelson, whose name is synonymous with hard work, acute attention to detail, and an indelible level of success. The sensibilities of both director and talent are showcased in the latest Callaway Golf & Dick’s Sporting Goods campaign for Callaway’s new Mavrik golf club line, which plays on that “golf nerd” desire to excel through expertise and technical excellence, in addition to talent and hard work.

The campaign was shot before the COVID-19 lockdown occurred, in anticipation of the upcoming golf season. When the pandemic began to take hold, the importance of celebrating science and technology suddenly took on a new level. That theme continues with what’s expected out of “The Match: Champions for Charity” play — showcasing the pairings of Mickelson and Tom Brady versus Tiger Woods and Peyton Manning.

To see the latest spot, click here

Synthetic director Jako Creates Films for Iconic Car brand Porsche"The Soul Within” series profiles people from around the world full of drive and energy

April 15, 2020

Vice.com - The protagonists are predominantly active in a creative, artistic environment. They are each completely dedicated to different topics, but all have one thing in common: they are doing their own thing - with their heart and soul. They make no reference to the Porsche brand, and no cars can be seen in the films. The sports car manufacturer is therefore placing the emphasis of its marketing communication on addressing its target group in an authentic way at eye level.

To read entire Porsche article, click HERE

Director Jeannie Roshar leads all female cast, crew, agency & post campaignBreastfeeding advocacy social media PSA's provide perfect backdrop to staff a women-led campaign

February 21, 2020

Austin, Tx: It started as a gutsy challenge — try to staff an entire shoot with only women, from agency creative through casting, on-set production, and post. It was a lofty goal originally suggested by senior agency producer Angie Nelson of Sherry Matthews Group, the Austin, Texas-based advocacy marketing agency that is itself woman-owned.

As soon as Synthetic Pictures Director Jeannie Roshar and Executive Producer Allison Smith put their minds to it, there was no stopping the quest. “It just made sense for the creative,” says Roshar.

To read the full article in Shots, click HERE.

Or go to: https://shots.net/news/view/synthetic-pictures-director-jeannie-roshar-leads-all-female-cast-crew-agency-and-post-campaign

Director Jeannie Roshar Chosen for Prestigious NBC Director’s ProgramSkills will be used on "The Voice" and "Making It"

February 14, 2020

Los Angeles, CA: The industry’s first directing pipeline program for unscripted shows has set its 2019-2020 class, helping to create equal representation behind the scenes on alternative series. The Alternative Directors Program gives experienced female and ethnically diverse directors the opportunity to expand their repertoire of alternative formats and complex directing styles with the ultimate goal of hiring them as show directors on NBC or Universal Television alternative series.

The new class is comprised of eight directors and the shows in their rotations are: Jeannie Roshar (The Kelly Clarkson Show, Making It, The Voice).

To read the Deadline Hollywood article in it’s entirety, click HERE

Or go to: https://deadline.com/2020/02/nbc-names-class-for-alternative-directors-program-2019-2020-1202860612/

Dermot Mulroney and Melora Walters Join Justin Corsbie’s Indie Feature Hard Luck Love SongBrian Sacca also Cast in a Supporting Role

Dermot Mulroney and Melora Walters have joined the music-inspired independent feature “Hard Luck Love Song” opposite Sophia Bush and Michael Dorman, Variety has learned exclusively. Commercial director Justin Corsbie will helm from a script he wrote with Nicholl semifinalist Craig Ugoretz, based on the Todd Snider song “Just Like Old Times.” Allison Smith, Douglas Matejka and Corsbie are producing; executive producers are Peter Scalettar and Christian Monti.

To see more on the Variety article, click here.

Or visit: https://variety.com/2018/film/news/dermot-mulroney-melora-walters-hard-luck-love-song-1202882056/

Director Justin Corsbie Taps Lead Actors Sophia Bush and Michael DormanDuo will Star In Music Inspired Hard Luck Love Song

July 16, 2018

EXCLUSIVE: One Tree Hill alum Sophia Bush and Patriot star Michael Dorman have been tapped as the leads in Hard Luck Love Song, an indie from Synthetic Pictures and Dime Box Entertainment based on the song Just Like Old Times by Todd Snider. Justin Corsbie is directing the film from a script he co-wrote with Craig Ugoretz.

To see more on the Deadline Hollywood article, click here.

Or visit: https://deadline.com/2018/07/sophia-bush-michael-dorman-hard-luck-love-song-movie-1202427506/

LA Weekly Video PremiereNadia Lanfranconi Delivers a Knock-Out Sucker Punch with Video Directed by Jako

March 13, 2018

Nadia Lanfranconi is an Italian-born punk-rocker turned country singer. Her provocative new video “Always” directed by Synthetic’s Jako, demonstrates Lanfranconi’s persuasive, painstakingly crafted contemporary style.

To read the full LA Weekly article, click here.

Or visit: http://www.laweekly.com/music/video-premiere-nadia-lanfranconi-delivers-a-knock-out-sucker-punch-with-always-9251482

SHOOTSynthetic Attracts Hundreds Hosting Ad Industry “South By Kick Off” Blowout at SXSW

March 9, 2018

Austin, TX - Synthetic Pictures, Yessian Music, Laundry, Apache and Union host the 6th Annual SXKO party in Austin’s East Side favorite The Craftsman. Hundreds of agency guests including 72andSunny, Wieden + Kennedy, Publicis, Mullen Lowe, McCann, Y&R, Deutsch and GSD&M attended the event, jamming to music by White Denim, White Reaper, Tunde Olaniran and DJ Dangit.

This party has “really hit its stride,” says Synthetic EP Allison Smith. “The core group of hosts have been working together for many years, both on this party and on commercial and branded projects. That’s created a sense of camaraderie, and the party has turned into a celebration of what we do individually and collectively.

To read the entire SHOOT article online, click here.

Or visit: https://shootonline.com/spw/synthetic-yessian-apache-union-and-laundry-team-host-ad-industry-south-kick-blowout-sxsw

Director Jeannie Roshar Launches Broadcast Version of “Life Hacks for Kids On the Road”The Wildly Popular Kids Web Series Is Now a TV Hit

Watch the "Life Hacks for Kids - On the Road" trailer or catch a show yourself, Saturdays at 8:30pm EST on Universal Kids TV.

Jako's "The Art of Shade" Photo Art Exhibit Opens in Milan, ItalyMusica Arte Cultura celebrates the fashion & beauty behind Jako's photographic art

March 1, 2018

Milan, Italy -- Jako's photographic art exhibit "The Art of Shade" opened to crowds and fanfare at the Musica Arte Cultura space in Milan, Italy. Jako was on hand to speak with patrons and discuss his work with the multiple Italian news outlets covering the opening. See the articles below, and watch the video from the show.

viaggisportvacanze.com

affaritaliani.it

arte.it

Garnier Taps Synthetic's Cole Walliser to direct Mandy Moore for Recycling CampaignRinse, Recycle, Repeat campaign is in collaboration with DoSomething.org

March 2, 2018

Los Angeles, CA -- Synthetic director Cole Walliser is tapped to direct Mandy Moore in a Garnier campaign as it's latest Brand Ambassador. Garnier's "Rinse, Recycle, Repeat" campaign was created in collaboration with DoSomething.org to encourage people to appropriately recycle their beauty products. Click below to read the entire Allure Magazine article.

Allure - Click here to read more.

Synthetic's Cole Walliser Directs the GlamBot at the 2018 Grammys

February 21, 2018

New York, NY -- Synthetic Director Cole Walliser’s work for E! Entertainment on the GlamBot, which is a device that does super slow motion and swooping effects, dazzles on the red carpet at the Emmys. With this most recent work, Walliser has now used the GlamBot at the Grammys, Emmys, Golden Globes and Academy Awards.

California Dreamin'Cole Walliser Directs & Stars in Brand Film for Mercedes-Benz

December 19, 2017 - Los Angeles, CA

Synthetic Director Cole Walliser directs and is featured in a brand campaign for Mercedes-Benz. Walliser highlights the luxury car company's G-Class SUV amidst the sweeping rustic landscapes and gorgeous beaches of California. Walliser showcases the G-Class's unique versatility and his own adventurous lifestyle that includes skateboarding, bouldering and surfing -- some of California's finest outdoor activities. 

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Synthetic Delivers First National Brand Campaign for Orangetheory FitnessJustin Corsbie's Directorial Work Featured in Little Black Book & SHOOT Online

January 30, 2018 - Los Angeles, CA

When Synthetic Pictures Founding Director Justin Corsbie visited an Orangetheory Fitness for the first time, one thing became clear — its membership is a diversely fit group with cult-like dedication to their workouts. Corsbie knew he wanted to showcase that passion and intensity in the brand’s first national campaign, 'More Orangetheory - More Life,' created by ad agency The Tombras Group of Knoxville, TN. 

The brand’s relationship between its custom workouts and an active lifestyle results in a campaign, directed by Corsbie, that mixes match-cut vignettes, stunning cinematography, compelling performances, and epic locations.

Read the rest of the article at Little Black Book
The spot was also featured on SHOOT ONLINE

West Texas Shoot Underway

July 12, 2017, West Texas

Synthetic's Justin Corsbie location scouting desert sand dunes in West Texas for an epic campaign launching later this year. Stay tuned.  

DreamWorksTV Brings "Life Hacks for Kids" to Broadcast

October 17, 2017 - Los Angeles, CA

DreamWorksTV is bringing its wildly popular YouTube show "Life Hacks for Kids" to television. Created by Synthetic's Jeannie Roshar and well known comedian Gary Anthony Williams, the show averages more than 1 million views per week on YouTube and has 3.3 million subscribers. Overall, it has more than 750 million views online. 

The new TV show, "Life Hacks for Kids: On the Road" will air 10 half-hour episodes beginning in 2018 on Comcast’s Universal Kids Network. 

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With a Team Approach, Synthetic Captures a Shell Giant Setting Sail

September 26, 2017 - Geoje, South Korea

Synthetic's Executive Producer, Allison Smith, is in South Korea with a Synthetic documentary team filming the sail away of the gigantic Shell Appomattox Hull -- the largest floating production system that Shell has ever built. Shell's brand film is as much about the people who imagined, designed, and built the feat of engineering, as it is about the Appomattox Hull setting out to sea. The Hull will sail around the world for 55 days to Ingleside, Texas for further integration into the Shell deepwater system.

Chicago Rep Jim Deloye Excites with Photography

September 20, 2017 - Chicago, IL

Midwest rep Jim Deloye is sending Summer out in style with a creative side project, a portfolio of his original abstract fine art photography under the moniker, LightWerks. It is exhibited at the highly esteemed Edgewater Arts Festival at the corner of Chicago's Broadway & Granville.

Edgewater Arts Festival is a juried show and this will be Jim’s second appearance with the LightWerks booth at the show featuring his “Illusionary Forces” collection.

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Synthetic, Yessian, Apache, Union and Ntropic Team Up to Party5th Annual "South By Kick Off" Blowout in Austin

Austin, TX, March 17, 2017

It wouldn’t be SXSW without the unofficial advertising and production kick off party, SXKO, and this year’s 5th annual bash proved to be epic, featuring fire dancing, an LED light show, buzzed-about bands, a taco truck and more than 600 attendees ready to get the SXSW ball rolling. 

The 2017 edition of SXKO, which took place on Friday night at the start of the conference (March 10), was brought to you again by Synthetic Pictures, the L.A., Austin and New York-based production house, and Yessian Music, which have been the party’s anchor hosts since day one. On hand from Synthetic were Austin native and founding director Justin Corsbie and his partner and EP, Allison Smith. 

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#SXKO 2017 Party Highlight Reel

March 17, 2017 -- Austin, Texas

Another epic SXSW night is in the books. Check out this year's #SXKO Party Highlight Reel.

Cuckold Picasso Thrills Lance Larson's Chilling Short Is Named An Official Selection of the Oaxaca Film Festival

Click here to watch the trailer >

BBVA Compass and Durant Team Up for KidsSynthetic's Justin Corsbie helps KD and BBVA Compass celebrate

Synthetic Director Justin Corsbie has been a Kevin Durant fan since Durant's early days playing as a Longhorn at UT, and before that as an All American in high school. Corsbie was excited to be involved with the project, and loved working with the team at o2ideas, Howard Pearlstein, Grace Roberts, and Ginger Brown.

The exciting event culminated in Durant donating his latest charitable gift: a new basketball court being installed at the northeast Austin charter school IDEA Rundberg. Sponsored by BBVA Compass Bank, Roc Nation and the Kevin Durant Charity Foundation, the court received an installation celebration fit for an All Star with confetti canons, welcome banners, 600 cheering kids, and the NBA star himself.

Commercials and web content will roll out later this year.

Read more about the event here >

Tyler Ramsey and Walter May's collaboration is making waves in LA's art scene

"It is the dance between chaos and chemistry that creates beauty."

Tyler Ramsey is a talented abstract painter known for his freestyle technique of attacking the canvas with bold, hand painted battles. His work has inspired a boutique collection of TOMS Shoes with his signature style and a series of billboards called "Art Lives" with the outdoor lifestyle brand, RAREFORM.

Walter May is an esteemed film, video and advertising director and pop culture aficionado working with major brands such as Toyota, Starbucks, ESPN and Smirnoff and celebrity icons such as Katy Perry, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Serena Williams and Eminem.

Together, their combined talents have found a magical synergy and a new genre of innovative, reflective fine art. Their defined, "celebration of collaboration" combines disciplines of painting, sculpting, photography, animation, cinematography and graphic design into a conscious, explorative process of creating art with positive meaning. "We don't really fit the stereotype of the angst ridden artists inspired by suffering and struggle," Walter May explains during their recent interview with Examiner. "We've taken a different, more positive approach to art and see it as a way to celebrate culture and innovation, and to encourage more collaboration between all artists."

Blaze Pizza Spot Goes ViralSynthetic's Blaze Pizza Hidden Camera Campaign with Lebron James goes viral

Synthetic Pictures highlights young champions for Amazon Kindle

LOS ANGELES, CA -- Synthetic Pictures teamed up with Amazon to showcase young spelling bee champions in a fun, heartwarming, and celebratory new campaign for the Kindle, showcasing the kids as the champions they've trained so hard to become. In one spot, the selected finalists name the hardest words they've ever had to spell, including Triskaidekaphobia, Antidisestablishmentarianism, culminating with a brain-busting word we can't even pronounce, much less spell! You have to watch the spot to even believe it. In other spots of the campaign, the kids, ranging in age from 6 to 14, show off some of their unique training methods with their parents - shooting hoops as they spell words, roller-skating with flashcards, bouncing a tennis ball in word rhythm - and discuss what it takes to become a champion.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee, sponsored by Amazon Kindle, is the country's largest spelling bee and operates as a not-for-profit in support of education and literacy for children. The level of work that goes into preparing for such an event is arguably on par with champion athletes. And while it's surely brains over brawn, the studying these kids go through is no joke. What's perhaps more impressive are the ways they balance their lives as champions with being regular kids. Between school, friends, family, and hobbies, their plates are enormously full. Synthetic Pictures and Amazon wanted to help recognize these young champs for their many accomplishments.

Synthetic produced  4 x :30 spots, as well as several additional web and social content pieces, and a still photoshoot - each highlighting a new question, and giving the contestants opportunities to open up about their training and their lives growing up as champions. "I think a word that sums me up as a champ is passionate," says 14-year-old Peyton Wiewel of Parkville, MO, confidence shining through her eyes. Wiewel adds of the competition, "It's that internal drive that keeps them going and it's their passion for what they're doing." Thirteen-year-old Maria Fields of Gross Pointe Park, Michigan says, "What makes a champion is that they believe in themselves and they believe they can do it before they do it." 

The bee is airing nationally May 25th and 26th on ESPN.

Founded in 2002, Synthetic Pictures (www.syntheticpictures.com) has offices in Los Angeles, Austin, and New York. The company boasts a diverse roster of live action directors and an accomplished visual effects division, SP/FX. They've worked with agencies such as BBDO, Leo Burnett, Team Detroit, GSD&M, Doner, Pitch, Publicis, JWT, Integer, 22squared, Wunderman, TM, Mithun, 360i, Phenomenon, Proof, Wilson, Luckie & Co, Agency RX, CDMi, Ramey, Tombras, LGA, Loomis, BVK, Rapp and R&R Partners on projects for clients such as Starbucks, Chrysler, Dodge, Dell, Intel, BMW, Ford, Vegas Tourism, Jennie-O, Shell, MasterCard, P&G, Special K, Dairy Queen, Burger King, Reebok, Walmart, DreamWorks, Nationwide, Canon, SunTrust Bank, Invisalign, Citgo, Honda, and the American Red Cross.

Read More At Source Creative >

SHOOT ONLINEEx-72andSunny Creative Walter May Joins Synthetic Pictures' Directorial Roster

Read More at shootonline.com >

SXSW#SXKO Party Highlight Reel

Synthetic Pictures and Yessian Music Team with Apache Digital, Beast and NtropicTo Start SXSW Off Right with the 4th "South By Kick Off" Party

AUSTIN, TX, March 16, 2016

It's hard to compete with the star power of President Barack Obama, but a quintet of advertising's top production and post production players did just that as they marked the start of the 2016 SXSW Festival with yet another rockin' party.

As ad industry professionals from around the country descended on Austin for five days of music, media, panels and partying, many made their way around Secret Service SUVs to The Belmont, scene of this year's "South By Kick Off" party, also known as #SXKO. All told more than 800 partygoers made the scene on Friday night, March 11, where the guest list included creative and production people from BBDO, DDB London, Digitas, Doner, Droga5, GSD&M, JWT, 72andSunny, Team Detroit, Publicis Frankfurt, Jung von Matt and Wieden + Kennedy/Amsterdam, as well as from other production companies and post houses.

More at Shoot Online >

Director Walter May and Painter Tyler Ramsey Featured in Art Show of the Year

Synthetic Director Erik Anderson Directs Multi-Continent Campaign for Shell

Check out the STV highlight reel >

Canon Expo 2015 Sweeps Into New York Highlighting Synthetic Director Erik Anderson's Work

Shoot Online & Creativity OnlineSynthetic Pictures' Justin Corsbie Tackles the Legend of J.J. Watt for Ford Trucks

Did he wrangle a marlin onto his boat with his bare hands? Is he sculpted like a super hero? Did Sasquatch really say that he saw him once, trumping through the brush? These are all questions asked by a range of people in a series of new comedy TV spot for Ford’s F-series trucks from Team Detroit directed by Synthetic Pictures™ Justin Corsbie, and the person they're asking about is J. J. Watt, the popular, high-voltage defensive end for the NFL™s Houston Texans.

Read the rest of the article at Shoot Online

The spot was also featured on Creativity Online

Congratulations to one of Synthetic's favorite go-to DP's Tod Campbell

Vulture - How Mr Robot Became One of TV’s Most Visually Striking Shows

When Tod Campbell joined Mr. Robot as director of photography on its second episode, he had what Marlo Stanfield from The Wire might refer to as "one of them good problems" in deciding how to shoot it. Lead actor Rami Malek's eyes were almost too gorgeous. "My God, Rami? I could put a light a hundred yards away and his eyes would pick it up," says the veteran cinematographer of shows from Friday Night Lights to Sleepy Hollow. This ocular casting coup helped determine how Campbell came to shape the distinctive look of creator Sam Esmail's twisty, anti-capitalist hacker drama, one of the summer's standout shows (its finale airs on USA tonight). And you don't need Malek-size eyes to see that Mr. Robot composes its shots like nothing else on television today.

Read more at Vulture >

New Drive Sober Campaign Hits Air for Labor Day

Synthetic Pictures Wraps Up Production for Ford with JJ Watt

Synthetic Pictures hosts Cannes 2015 Pool Party

Synthetic Director JAKO's Photograph Published In National Geographic

Congratulations to Synthetic director JAKO on his photograph "Lovers Night" published in National Geographic's latest photo book Getting Your Shot. "Lovers Night" is also honored as being the most viewed image in the history of Nat Geo's "Your Shot" website.

View the image on Nat Geo's site >

SourceEcreative Just Breaking SpotsPeter Sorcher Directs New Campaign for Starbucks "At Home"

LOS ANGELES, April 6, 2015

Synthetic Pictures director Peter Sorcher teams up with Integer for Starbucks to deliver a new At Home campaign. The first of 4 spots kicks off with "Book Club".

Learn More About Starbucks At Home >

SHOOTSynthetic, Yessian, Union, Apache Digital and Laundry Hold "South By Kick Off" Party to Get SXSW Rolling

AUSTIN, Texas, March 16, 2015

What better way to spend Friday the 13th than getting in the proper mood for five days of mind-expanding music, media, panels, networking and partying? That's the idea behind the 2015 South By Kick Off party, held last Friday night in Austin. More than 600 industry insiders and tastemakers made the scene, which included agency folks from shops like GSD&M, JWT, Deutsch and others.

The event was co-hosted by a quintet of top players in the creation and production of advertising content. The gang of five was led by Synthetic Pictures, the L.A., New York and Austin-based production company, and Yessian Music...

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SourceEcreativeSynthetic Pictures on Funny Business

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SourceEcreativeSynthetic Pictures' Justin Corsbie is One Serious Student of Comedy

LOS ANGELES, March 1, 2015

Justin Corsbie cautions you that when it comes to comedy, he's quite serious. That's not to say he lacks a sense of humor. He's actually a hoot to hang with, according to agency clients, many whom have become friends. It's just that to him, comedy is something you need to approach with some discipline. You need to do your homework, too, which is why he's always going to clubs and checking out rising stand-up stars. And his sphere of reference is impressive, it's hard to find someone so close to millennials in age who aspires to banter like Mike Nichols and Elaine May...

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Nissan Shoot UnderwayCheck Out That Rig!

SHOOT2015 Production/Post Outlook: Diversity, Net Neutrality, Industry Feedback

LOS ANGELES, January 30, 2015

Synthetic Executive Producer Allison Smith featured as production and post pros share their visions, hopes, and expectations for 2015.

"...we envision more Mash-Ups: projects that combine components of traditional commercial production with documentary techniques, hidden cameras, takeovers, experiential marketing, public relations,  etc... with the content being delivered through broadcast, online, mobile, & social platforms along with the experiential & PR impact while being produced."

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Justin Corsbie's Latest Tourism Campaign to Air During All-American Bowl

SHOOTDirector Erik Anderson Joins Synthetic Pictures

LOS ANGELES, September 8, 2014

Synthetic Pictures has signed director Erik Anderson whose specialities include docu-style, lifestyle and automotive content. His clients include Microsoft, Riddell, Maria Stopes International, and the Rockefeller Foundation. Anderson's new Riddell spot was recently shortlisted for the Clio Sports competition.

Anderson's first projects with Synthetic include co-directing with Justin Corsbie a real people campaign for Williamsburg, Virginia Tourism through Luckie & Co., and collaborating with Team Detroit on a potential docu-style campaign for Ford.

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Director Erik Anderson's Riddell Spot Shortlisted for CLIO Sports Award

Short Shorts & Asia 2014 - Jako's "More Than Words" Wins FutureCity Yokohama Best Short Award

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Director Justin Corsbie Chosen to Helm His 2nd Burger King Campaign of 2014

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Telly's Highest Honor, the Silver Telly, Awarded to Allison Smith's Human Trafficking Documentary

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Director Mike Angelo Torres Joins Synthetic's Growing Roster

LOS ANGELES, March 28, 2014

Synthetic Pictures has added a pair of filmmakers to its lineup--director Jako and director/cameraman Mike Angelo Torres. The former specializes in automotive and music-driven content while Torres is known for his visual storytelling in both the general and Latin markets.

Torres' previous clients include Reebok, Budweiser, Nissan, and SafeLink. He's also directed and shot music videos for leading recording labels and well-known artists like Lil Wayne, Ben Kweller, Dizzee Rascal, and Rick Ross.

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Synthetic Pictures Signs Award-Winning Director Jako

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Synthetic's Jennie-O Spot Airs During Oscars Broadcast on ABC

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And the Gold Addy Goes to... Justin Corsbie's Purple Spot for National Gypsum

Justin Corsbie Directs Latest for Burger King

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NetflixSynthetic's DMT: The Spirit Molecule is #1 on Netlfix Streaming

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Justin Corsbie wins Best Shorts Competition Award of Excellence for Hot Dogs & Hand Grenades

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Austin Film SocietySynthetic Pictures at Gen Art

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Synthetic's ACCCE Rodeo Sweeps National TV Awards at DC ADDYs

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Synthetic's "Be the One" Gulf Oil Spill PSA Makes National Headlines

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Vegas Bound Campaign Makes National Headlines

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Paste Magazine - Best of Film 2008

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Lance Larson Signed to Synthetic Roster

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Synthetic Pictures Sweeps the Aurora Awards

Markee MagazineCover Features Justin Corsbie

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Synthetic's Livestrong Spot Raises Millions for Fight Against Cancer

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Synthetic Founder Justin Corsbie Named Austin Under 40 Finalist

Austin Under 40 Announcement of Finalists >

Director Jako Wins Roma Videoclip 2014