Kalpesh Patankar from Leo Burnett UAE serves first Jury President for Industry Craft Lions from the MENA region
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity has announced the names of the global experts who will preside over the 2024 Juries, playing a pivotal role in assessing and setting benchmarks for excellence across the spectrum of the world’s most outstanding creative and effective work.
Commenting on the Jury Presidents, Simon Cook, CEO, LIONS, said: “Our Jury Presidents play a crucial role in the existence of the Lions. Their knowledge, skills, and incredible talent, combined with the commitment and leadership that they will bring to their roles, bring integrity and rigour to the Lions. This is an exceptional line-up of talent from across the world, and we can’t wait to see the work that rises to the top in June.”
Kalpesh Patankar from Leo Burnett UAE has been appointed as the first Jury President for Industry Craft Lions, and the second consecutive jury representation in two years for the MENA region. Commenting on his appointment, Kalpesh remarked, “When you see a truly great piece of work, the feeling is undeniable. I have felt it many times, in many jury rooms over the years. This year, as Jury President I’ll be championing those undeniable pieces of work in Industry Craft at Cannes Lions 2024.”
The Cannes Lions 2024 Jury Presidents have been announced as follows:
Audio & Radio Lions:
Simon Vicars, Chief Creative Officer, Colenso BBDO, New Zealand
Brand Experience & Activation Lions:
Anselmo Ramos, Founder, Creative Chairman, GUT, Global
Creative B2B Lions:
Andisa Ntsubane, Managing Executive: Brand, Marketing and Communications Africa, Vodacom Group, Africa
Creative Business Transformation Lions:
Ariana Stolarz, Global Chief Strategy Officer, Marketing, Accenture Song, Global
Creative Commerce Lions:
Amy Lanzi, CEO, Digitas NA, Digitas, North America
Creative Data Lions:
Rose Herceg, Country President Australia and New Zealand, WPP, Australia and New Zealand
Creative Effectiveness Lions:
Harjot Singh, Global Chief Strategy Officer, McCann and McCann Worldgroup, Global
Creative Strategy Lions:
Vita M. Harris, Global Chief Strategy Officer, FCB, Global
Design Lions:
Fura Johannesdottir, Chief Creative Officer, Huge, Global
Digital Craft Lions:
Kentaro Kimura, International Chief Creative Officer and Corporate Officer, Hakuhodo, Global
Direct Lions:
Pancho Cassis, Partner and Global Chief Creative Officer, DAVID, Global
Entertainment Lions:
Geoffrey Edwards, Executive Creative Director, GALE, USA
Entertainment Lions for Gaming:
Lydia Winters, Chief Storyteller, Mojang Studios, Global
Entertainment Lions for Music:
Madeline Nelson, US Head of Independent Label Relations, Amazon Music, USA
Entertainment Lions for Sport:
Louise Johnson, CEO, Fuse, UK/EMEA
Film Lions:
Tor Myhren, VP Marketing Communications, Apple Inc, Global
Film Craft Lions:
Prasoon Pandey, Ad Film Maker, Corcoise Films, India
Glass: The Lion for Change:
Cindy Gallop, Founder and CEO, MakeLoveNotPorn, Global
Health & Wellness Lions:
Wendy Chan, Health Creative Lead, Asia Pacific, Edelman, APAC
Industry Craft Lions:
Kalpesh Patankar, Chief Creative Officer, Leo Burnett, UAE
Innovation Lions:
Diego Machado, Global Chief Creative Officer, AKQA, Global
Media Lions:
Prerna Mehrotra, Chief Client Officer and CEO Media, dentsu, APAC
Outdoor Lions:
Marco Venturelli, Chief Creative Officer, Publicis Groupe, France
Pharma Lions:
Collette Douaihy, Global Chief Creative Officer, Health, Dentsu Health, Global
PR Lions:
Kat Thomas, Founder and Global Chief Creative Officer, One Green Bean, Global
Print & Publishing Lions:
John Raúl Forero, President and Chief Creative Officer, DDB, Colombia
Social & Influencer Lions:
Amy Ferguson, Chief Creative Officer, TBWA\Chiat\Day New York, USA
Sustainable Development Goals Lions:
Gustavo Lauria, Co-Founder, President and Chief Creative Officer, We Believers, USA
The Dan Wieden Titanium Lions:
Debbi Vandeven, Global Chief Creative Officer, VML, Global
Further information on this year’s Jury Presidents, as well as the Festival, the Lions Awards and LIONS Membership can be found at canneslions.com.
Biskrem recently launched an integrated cinema campaign with Motivate Val Morgan to promote their cocoa-filled biscuit at selected VOX Cinemas in KSA.
The on-screen component included a 15-second ad, which was booked through CinePlan’s ‘by admission’ route at VOX Redsea Mall and VOX Roshn Front (formerly Riyadh Front) starting 21 December 2023.
The off-screen campaign included a sampling activity at the VOX locations over the weekend, starting 21 to 23 December 2023.
Biskrem set up a stall in the cinema’s foyer area, where a promoter distributed free samples of Biskrem mini and Biskrem Caramel to moviegoers attending the premieres in the auditoriums where the brand’s ad was screening.
Planning a product launch for your brand? Contact a member of our sales team to learn more about how integrated campaigns can help bring your brand closer to its target audience.
META Cinema Forum brings together cinema stakeholders from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and CIS countries, committing to elevate the cinematic experience in emerging markets.
The sixth edition of the highly successful META Cinema Forum took place between November 7-8, 2023, at the Grand Hyatt in Dubai under the theme ‘Growing the Region’s Cinema Share,’ exemplifying a dedicated commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the industry.
The event, attended by over 500 delegates, visitors, buyers, sellers, and other industry stakeholders, featured engaging discussions, presentations, and workshops addressing the industry’s challenges, solutions, and current market dynamics. Key topics covered included Regional Content Production and International Collaboration, Cinemas of the Future, as well as a comprehensive exploration of emerging cinema trends and technologies, incorporating vital cinema statistics and case studies delving into Rewarding Patrons and Effective Pricing Strategies.
A myriad of stands, presenting the latest products, services, and technologies from a carefully curated selection of industry suppliers, technology providers, and stakeholders, were also showcased at the event.
The forum also attracted the biggest cinema operators in the region as partners in success, with VOX Cinemas, the forum’s strategic partner, alongside AMC KSA, Cinepolis, Muvi, and other cinema operators presenting their future expansion plans.
A notable feature of this year’s edition was the spotlight on Women in Film and TV (WIFT). The event showcased a round table discussion titled ‘Beyond the Glitz,’ featuring prominent female panelists such as Nancy Paton, Founder of Desert Rose Films and President of WIFTGCC, Charlotte Louise Sutcliffe, Entertainment Lawyer and Associate at CWB, and Head of Events at WIFTGCC, Ozge Conduroglu, Acquisition & Distribution Lead at The Plot Pictures MENA, and Ashleigh Potts, Marketing Director at Studio Distribution, Majid Al Futtaim LLC.
Additionally, the forum celebrated rising female Emirati filmmakers Zainab Shaheen, Maitha Al Awadi, Eman Al Sayed, and Sarraa Al Shehhi. The spotlight also shone on Nayla Al Khaja, the first Emirati film director, who received recognition at the WIFT MENA AWARDS during the event.
Leila Masinaei, Managing Partner, Great Mind Events Management, remarked, “The success of the 6th META Cinema Forum reflects our unwavering commitment to advancing the cinematic landscape in emerging markets. This year’s event has reinforced our belief in the power of collaboration, innovation, and shared experiences within the industry. We are excited about the future possibilities and the role META Cinema Forum will continue to play in shaping the cinema sector in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the CIS region.”
The two-day cinema conference also featured special screenings, including the latest Marvel movie ‘The Marvels’.
The highlight of the event was The META Cinema Awards and Gala Reception—a night of celebration recognizing outstanding achievements in the cinema industry. Nathan Gilligan, Senior Operations Manager at Comscore, and Nena Loncar, Client Insights Manager at Comscore, presented the awards. Recipients of this year’s META Cinema Awards include:”
Motivate Val Morgan was one of the media partners for the META Cinema Forum and a supporting partner for Meta Cinema Forum 2023.
In the realm of marketing terminology, one encounters familiar buzzwords such as Gen-Z, resonating strongly within industry discussions and strategies. Yet, amid this prevalent vocabulary, a lesser-known term emerges: Elusives. Uncommonly uttered in marketing circles, the concept of Elusives remains enigmatic, lacking the widespread recognition attributed to its Gen-Z counterpart.
While Gen-Z garners attention for its purchasing prowess, age dynamics, and pervasive influence, a pertinent question emerges: Are Elusives synonymous with Gen-Z? Delving into this intriguing query unveils an exploration of a demographic perhaps just as vital but hidden in mystery within the marketing landscape.
So, who are Elusives? According to the Video Advertising Bureau, Elusives are lucrative, young, diverse, and cordless audiences who are more prevalent but elusive when it comes to advertising. They tend to avoid advertisements at all costs, opting to skip ads or passively engage with unskippable advertising content. They pose a challenge for marketers to reach compared to other audiences. However, there is a platform that consistently captures these Elusives – The Cinema.
The VAB report highlights that 65% of all moviegoers belong to the adults 18-34 multicultural audience who perceive cinema as a crucial part of their social lives. They prefer watching a diverse range of genres at the cinema within its initial release week.
Furthermore, the report indicates that Elusives, from the moment they step into the cinema, become receptive to in-theater advertising. Remarkably, 89% of adults 18-34 take their seats before the start of trailers, viewing cinema as a pivotal social event. They often combine other activities, such as dining out or shopping, following the movie.
This scenario cements cinema as the ‘go to’ social activity for youngsters and offers marketers immediate opportunities to engage with these socially active and lucrative consumers through cinema advertising. It becomes an advantageous channel for immediate audience reach, such as launching new products, consumer promotions, or seasonal campaigns. Marketers stand to benefit from cinema’s proven ability to rapidly amplify the scale and reach of a campaign, all within a highly attentive environment.
Source: VAB
The Luxury & Lifestyle Lions launch recognises the significant transformation and disruption to the creative marketing of brands in the luxury space
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity has introduced the Luxury & Lifestyle Lions, setting a global standard for luxury brands, with the goal of acknowledging and celebrating the most influential creative work, experiences, and business solutions within the luxury and lifestyle sector.
Simon Cook, CEO, LIONS, said: “When we introduce a Lion that reflects the needs of an industry sector, the Award is crafted in collaboration with the relevant industry. Our global committee of experts have advised us that this highly disrupted sector needs its own benchmark, so that we can move from driving awareness to recognising solutions that are changing business models and setting a new creative standard for a market in flux. The Luxury & Lifestyle Lions will recognise branded communications and solutions that drive business performance and brand loyalty. A multi-disciplined Jury will set a new benchmark for the luxury sector, with the Lion recognising creative work that elevates the discipline and the sector.”
Marian Brannelly, Global Director of Awards, LIONS, added: “The luxury market has faced significant disruption in recent years and post-pandemic. A shift in consumer behaviour and an accelerated shift towards e-commerce and emerging technologies are just a few of the areas the market has had to navigate and innovate in at speed. Add to this the changing values of new demographics, the evolving definition of luxury in non-Western markets and the need for a heightened focus on sustainability and conscious consumption, and you begin to see the pivotal role that world-class creativity can play in this transformation.”
This change is supported by WARC’s ‘Guide to Luxury Marketing in an Era of Change’ and Euromonitor research, which indicates that sales in the luxury category have rebounded after COVID-19 and are expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels in 2023. Additionally, research by IPSOS demonstrates that the global luxury market is evolving, presenting new opportunities and challenges. It is predicted that demographic shifts in emerging economies will create more than one billion first-time consumers, primarily concentrated in China, India, and Southeast Asia – as their purchasing power is bolstered by rapid digital adoption among a youthful, urban, and tech-savvy population.
Commenting on the Award, Charles Georges-Picot, Global CEO at Marcel and Publicis Luxe, Global Client Lead, said: “At a time where the luxury sector must constantly reinvent, transform and honour brand heritage with a keen eye on the future, the introduction of a Luxury & Lifestyle Lions will help set a new creative benchmark for this highly disrupted and exciting sector. We know that creativity has the power to push boundaries and progress sectors and disciplines. We’re excited about a new industry standard that will redefine how we look at branded communications, business models and creative transformation in this dynamic space.”
At this year’s Cannes Lions, ‘Kaguya by GUCCI’ by Dentsu Inc., Tokyo, was awarded a Bronze Lion in Film Craft. The work featured music that celebrates a mix of historical Japanese artforms with the latest technology in creativity. The creative director behind the piece, Toshihiko Tanabe, said about the launch of the Luxury & Lifestyle Lions: “Luxury campaigns aren’t just about glittering celebrities dancing in the sunset. For years, luxury marketing has served as a rare platform to exhibit visual art and pop culture in the most contemporary way.”
In other changes to the Lions, Brannelly commented: “It’s important that the Awards reflect the current landscape and pave the way forward, so as well as evolving the Lions, it’s equally important for us to retire Lions when necessary. In 2024, following consultation with our Juries, we will close the Mobile Lions. Mobile devices are embedded in work across every channel and discipline, and over the past number of years, mobile-led creativity has been expanding into almost every Lion.”
Full information on the Luxury & Lifestyle Lions, including the definition, criteria and categories, will follow, along with the Entry Kit, in November. Details of the Jury President and Jury will be announced early next year, with submissions into Cannes Lions 2024 being accepted from 18 January 2024.
Click here for further information on the Cannes Lions Awards along with the 2023 winners.
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Panadol unveiled an innovative cinema activation in collaboration with Publicis Media, Motivate Val Morgan and VOX Cinemas.
The campaign titled ‘The Art of Release’ – on display from 6 to 19 October – enables cinemagoers to envision their personal pain relief moments and experience it on expansive screens through an AI-powered Panadol visual booth in the foyer area of VOX Cinemas, Mall of the Emirates.
Cinemagoers also receive complimentary goodies and memorabilia post their ‘Pain Relief Moment’ experience.
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The cinema activation has also garnered significant media coverage, with mentions across well-known platforms such as Virgin Radio Dubai with Kris Fade, Zee TV, What’s On Dubai, and more.
Cinema activations help move your brand closer to its target audience. Think cinema for ‘attention-grabbing’ adverting!
VOX Century Corner is the exhibitor’s 10th location in Riyadh.
VOX Cinemas, the dedicated cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim, opened its 16th location in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at Century Corner by Rakaa Holding on 1 October 2023.
Centrally located in the city on King Fahad Road, VOX Century Corner – Riyadh features a 10-screen cinema, including five Standard auditoriums, an IMAX® with Laser auditorium, a 10-seater Private Cinema, and three THEATRE auditoriums – a first-of-its-kind luxurious offering in the country providing a dining experience with gourmet food in an intimate setting.
With the opening of the latest location, VOX Cinemas now operates a total of 164 screens across 16 cinemas in six cities throughout the Kingdom.
Click here to book tickets at this new cinema, and reach out to our team to learn more about cinema advertising opportunities at VOX Century Corner – Riyadh.
Halloween has arrived, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to dim the lights, cozy up on the couch, and dive into some spooky films. It’s even more enjoyable when you can share the thrills with your entire family because let’s face it, almost everyone loves a good scary movie from time to time, even the youngest members of the clan. However, the challenge is finding a movie that won’t leave the kids (and consequently, you) wide awake all night.
Your search ends here! Here’s a curated selection of the finest family-friendly Halloween movies for kids to enjoy in 2023, offering just the right amount of spooky fun for young minds:
Coco (2017)
Coco follows Miguel as he embarks on a quest to become a musician—a quest that lands him in the colorful and fantastical Land of the Dead. There, he learns the meaning and importance of culture and family.
Frankenweenie (2012)
Frankenweenie tells the story of Victor, who experiences elation when he successfully revives his beloved pet dog, Sparky. However, when his schoolmates attempt their own experiments in resurrection, the situation takes a chilling turn.
Hotel Transylvania (2012)
One of the best kids Halloween movies out there! Even though Count Dracula is raising his daughter, Mavis, in the lovely “five-stake” monsters-only hotel he’s built in Transylvania, he allows her to explore the human world on her 118th birthday. And for fans, there are sequels to enjoy: Hotel Transylvania 2, Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation, and Hotel Transylvania: Transformania.
Goosebumps (2015)
Goosebumps draws inspiration from the popular ’90s horror book series by R.L. Stine. In this 2015 film, the author, portrayed by Jack Black, and his family must rescue their hometown from impending doom as all the monsters from his stories come to life.
Monster House (2006)
In Monster House, a seemingly ordinary house reveals itself as a malevolent, living creature. When three young friends uncover this unsettling truth, they embark on a daring mission to save the town’s children from the house’s sinister grip.
Paranorman (2012)
To say Norman Babcock isn’t your average 11-year-old boy is quite an understatement—considering he can communicate with ghosts! Now he must use his powers to save his small town from an ancient curse.
Hocus Pocus 2 (2022)
A modern sequel to the 1993 film, Hocus Pocus 2 tells the story of three young girls who accidentally bring the Sanderson sisters to current-day Salem.
The Addams Family (2019)
The first animated comedy about the famously creepy and kooky Addams Family offers tons of kid-friendly frights and fun. This is a great alternative for kids who are interested in the new hit show Wednesday but still a little too young to watch.
The House With A Clock In Its Walls (2018)
The movie follows a 10-year-old kid who, after he’s sent to be watched over by an eccentric uncle (Jack Black) and and his friendly neighbor (Cate Blanchett), is pulled into an ancient rivalry between witches and warlocks.
Haunted Mansion (2023)
A woman and her son enlist a motley crew of so-called spiritual experts to help rid their home of supernatural squatters.
The Goonies (1985)
This beloved adventure follows a motley crew of misfits known as The Goonies on an action-packed treasure hunt to save their homes.
The Boxtrolls (2014)
While the rest of the world fears and despises them, a young human boy named Eggs considers the Boxtrolls his family. In The Boxtrolls, Eggs must confront an evil exterminator determined to eradicate his beloved clan.
A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting (2020)
Kelly Ferguson accepts a babysitting gig on Halloween night — only to have her charge captured by the Boogeyman. Luckily, she learns of a secret society of child guardians who can help her learn to fight monsters.
Gnome Alone (2018)
When Chloe moves into a new home with her mother, she finds something unexpected: a group of garden gnomes who say the neighborhood is under attack by underground beasts. It’s up to Chloe to help the gnomes save the world.
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark is designed for teens (PG-13) who have outgrown the most family-friendly horror films but aren’t quite ready for the likes of Nightmare on Elm Street. This film, inspired by the spine-tingling book series from our childhoods, centers on a group of young investigators who must confront local legends that begin to materialize and pose real threats.
(Note: This movie is darker and more mature than many others on this list, intended for older viewers.)
WONKA – one of the most anticipated 2023 movies, is scheduled for release in cinemas on 14 December 2023
Roald Dahl’s timeless classic, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, has left an indelible mark on literature and cinema alike. This beloved tale has graced the silver screen twice before: first in 1971, when it was adapted into a film – Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory – that introduced the whimsical chocolatier, Willy Wonka, portrayed by Gene Wilder. Then, in 2005, under the direction of Tim Burton and featuring Johnny Depp in the leading role, the original title was retained for a captivating reimagining.
As the world eagerly anticipates a third cinematic adventure within the ‘Wonkaverse,’ here’s everything you need to know before diving into the ‘scrumdiddlyumptious’ prequel:
Plot
Wonka is a prequel to the 1964 novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and will follow a young Willy Wonka in his early adventures, including how he met the Oompa-Loompas. The film traces his transformation from a young man of modest origins with ambitious dreams in the candy industry to becoming an iconic source of inspiration for sweet tooths worldwide.
Cast
The titular character, Willy Wonka, will be portrayed by Timothée Chalamet. Other cast members include Olivia Colman, Hugh Grant, Sally Hawkins, Keegan-Michael Key, Rowan Atkinson, and Jim Carter.
Director
Directed by Paul King, who is already well-versed in adapting classic children’s literature to film. His previous works include the 2014 live-action Paddington and his 2009 feature film debut, Bunny And The Bull.
Watch The Trailer
Source: Screen Rant, Collider
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The release of the Barbie movie marks one of the greatest marketing events in the history of movies, creating a lot of buzz among fans of the iconic doll. With a reported marketing budget of US$100M, the film was launched alongside more than a hundred bright pink branding deals worldwide. From Barbie sparkles on Google search results to Barbie-endorsed Crocs and a special Prada line, the Barbie movie marketing campaign painted the world pink and created marketing magic, becoming the biggest cultural movement of the year.
The result of these endeavors was an immense triumph, as the movie directed by Greta Gerwig surpassed expectations, collecting over US$1.2B at the global box office, including an impressive US$1.95M from the UAE alone. With moviegoers flocking to theaters adorned in shades of pink, the film was more than just a cinematic event; it was also a dazzling showcase of brands that seized the opportunity to align with Barbie’s iconic legacy.
Sony Playstation, Samsung Galaxy and more, took center stage by aligning their brand campaigns alongside Barbie in the region.
Check out the full list of brands that hopped on the ‘Barbie Bandwagon’:
PlayStation 5
Country: UAE
Campaign type: Follow a movie
Samsung Flip
Country: UAE
Campaign type: Follow a movie
Dyson
Country: KSA
Campaign type: Follow a movie
Clara
Country: KSA
Campaign type: Follow a movie
Always
Country: Egypt
Campaign type: Follow a movie
McDonald’s
Country: UAE
Campaign type: On screen Ad
Think cinema for ‘attention-grabbing’ advertising!
Check out the list of upcoming blockbusters in Q3 2023 and contact us for cinema advertising opportunities across the GCC, Egypt and Lebanon.
