Award-winning director Alex Ogus is in good CoMPANY
LA-based director Alex Ogus has just joined the roster at CoMPANY. Beginning his career as an illustrator in grade school, Ogus found students wanted to buy his work and, not wanting to part with the originals, he sold them xeroxes. He was captivated by film from an early age, and upon graduating continued on to art school where he directed short films.
He has since moved into directing commercial campaigns all over the world and has won numerous awards for his work. His campaign for the Fight Network won four Gold Lions in Cannes, multiple Bessies including Best of Show and Clios amongst others. The following year, his spot for Media Market was a Cannes finalist and rated one of the top campaigns in Belgium. His recent 'Levitation' spot for Asics was featured in Creativity, Shots and Shoot and his Science World 'Airport' has won multiple Golds including at the Applied Arts Awards, ADCC and the Marketing Awards. Check out JWT's 'Blue Cat' for Smarties and FRED & FARID's 'The Wolves' for Society Generale to see more recent work from Ogus.
As an outside passion, Alex has also designed and marketed a series of modern lamps under the brand ogusdesign that have been written up in AZURE, dwell and ARTTRAVEL. Sought after, they've also become props for commercials and films as well as recently appearing in the big budget feature 'Total Recall' starring Kate Beckinsale and Colin Farrell.
As a bonus, here's a quick Q&A with Alex:
How did you get your start directing commercials?
I got my start the old fashioned way. I created a salad dressing business and did my first spot for the brand.
What initially attracted you to filmmaking? Are there any other creative outlets that interest you?
My interest in filmmaking goes back to when I was 7. I would make super 8 animation films in my freezer recreating scenes from The Empire Strikes Back. Funny enough, the director Irvin Kershner later became my mentor. My other creative outlets include design. Years ago I couldn't find a lamp I liked so I made my own. After doing so, it got picked up by retailers, got press and made appearances in movies.
How would you define the actual role that a director is supposed to fill?
For me, the role of the director is to create a safe and comfortable environment for the actors and crew. Then, inspire everyone to do things they didn't think they could, all while making it fun.
What is it about CoMPANY that makes it a good match for your talents?
I think CoMPANY is a good match because they do the type of work that I'm passionate about. I'm also among a group of directors that have an original point of view.
As a director, what has been your biggest personal accomplishment thus far?
Having the privilege to move and work in LA after winning the gold lion. It's a director's dream for which I'm incredibly grateful.
Where do you see your career heading for the future?
I see my career headed towards directing more idea driven, storytelling work that continues to challenge me.
Published on 20th December 2012
