Image Source: PetaPixel
Emma Stone has once again captured the spotlight, this time through a brilliantly crafted Super Bowl commercial directed by acclaimed filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos. Renowned for her exceptional acting prowess and unique presence, Stone stars in a striking black-and-white advertisement for Squarespace. The ad utilizes high-quality 35mm Kodak 2302 black-and-white film stock, a choice that has garnered significant attention due to its artistry and rarity in commercial production.
The advertisement, which is likely to stand out amidst the myriad of Super Bowl commercials, follows Stone’s fictional journey as she attempts to reclaim her digital identity by registering the domain emmastone.com. The campaign cleverly plays on reality—highlighting the complexities of online identity—and is elegantly presented in a series of visually stunning segments that showcase Yorgos Lanthimos’ signature style.
Behind the Scenes: Artistic Choices
The creative team at Squarespace chose Kodak 2302 for its rich tonal structure and distinctive texture, which conveys strong contrast and fine grain quality. Mathieu Zarbatany, Group Creative Director at Squarespace, explained the decision: “The film’s unique qualities enhance the emotional narrative we’re attempting to portray.” The ad is shot in an open gate 4:3 aspect ratio using a vintage Arri 235 camera combined with Panavision Primo lenses, which provides a nostalgic yet modern visual experience.
Emma Stone’s Personal Connection
For Emma Stone, this advertisement transcends mere commercialism. She remarks, “This commercial is based on true events. Having the opportunity to play myself in my own home was a joy and a memory I won’t soon forget, despite the pain that came rushing back.” This connection enhances her portrayal, adding authenticity and depth that audiences can resonate with.
The collaboration between Lanthimos and Stone is not new; they have previously worked together on several projects, notably Poor Things, released in 2023, where they demonstrated their ability to meld visual storytelling with profound emotional messages.
Visual Impact and Audience Reception
The commercial features a range of artistic visuals that reflect an emotional narrative through striking imagery. Posters released alongside the campaign depict Stone in various states of contemplation and emotional turmoil, resonating with themes of desire and unfulfilled aspirations. The use of film grain, along with the high-contrast black-and-white photography, lends the entire project an artsy, sophisticated feel that is a departure from typical Super Bowl advertising.
As viewers prepare for the Super Bowl, the excitement surrounding Lanthimos’ advertisement has grown, with many anticipating it to be one of the most talked-about commercials of the event. The film aesthetic captures not only Stone’s talent but also the artistic ambition present in modern advertising.
A Unique Approach to Super Bowl Ads
While many commercials during the Super Bowl rely on humor or celebrity endorsements, Lanthimos’ poignant and visually arresting approach offers a fresh perspective. Critics and fans alike are eager to see how this campaign will perform compared to more traditional ads. Given the strong fan base for both Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos, the commercial is expected to make a lasting impact.
In a world saturated with digital content, this Super Bowl ad stands apart by championing the beauty of analog filmmaking and the personal stories behind it. As the event unfolds, audiences will undoubtedly continue to share their thoughts on this distinctive representation of modern advertising.
Conclusion
Emma Stone’s collaboration with Yorgos Lanthimos in this breathtaking Super Bowl advertisement showcases the beauty of 35mm film in a modern commercial context, capturing the imagination of viewers. As the commercial airs, it will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing conversation about creativity and identity in advertising.
FAQ
What inspired the use of 35mm film in the ad?
The use of 35mm film, specifically Kodak 2302, was chosen for its unique tonal qualities and aesthetic that enhance the emotional narrative of the advertisement.
How does the ad reflect Emma Stone’s real-life experiences?
Emma Stone stated that the commercial is based on true events regarding her experiences with online identity, connecting her performance to her personal story.
What can we expect from this Super Bowl ad compared to others?
Unlike typical Super Bowl commercials that rely heavily on humor or celebrity appearances, Lanthimos’ ad prioritizes artistic storytelling and visual sophistication.
Will Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos collaborate again in the future?
Given their successful history and strong creative synergy, it’s possible they may collaborate on future projects, as they have worked together in various capacities.
How has the initial reaction been to the commercial?
The anticipation surrounding the ad is high, with many critics praising its artistic direction and expecting it to be one of the highlights of the Super Bowl.
