Progressive x Sphere

"Race with The Squad"

Directing a Sphere spot with Flo was a dream project! In collaboration with Monks, we launched "Race with Your Squad" during F1, creating a high-energy, 3D Progressive racetrack where the squad raced to the finish—until Alan crashed, introducing Progressive’s new accident response interface. 360° spherical storytelling presents a unique challenge—concepting without seams or intentionally designing for them is a key part of the creative process. Offering an opportunity to consider multiple narratives unfolding from various viewpoints quadrants, or one singular narrative that is clear from any vantage point. My focus was on delivering comedy without sound. This meant guiding Flo and the squad to amplify their physicality, ensuring the humor landed visually.  To fully immerse the squad in the Tron-inspired CGI world, our lighting approach was crucial. My DP—ironically, also named Flo—Florian Stadler, and I explored various solutions until he landed on a custom lighting rig that perfectly mimicked speed and motion of the race track, seamlessly integrating the Squad into the scene. It was such a pleasure working with the team & bringing this innovative project to the finish line - AND we FILMED IN LA! 

CREDITS: Client: Progressive x Sphere | Agency: Monks | Director: Kristyna Archer | Production: Monks | EP: Mat Lancaster & Bou Brouwer | Producer: Denise Rocchietti | PM: Gus Kousoulas | 1st AD: Luis Garcia | 2nd AD: Cody Ross | DP: Florian Stadler | 1st AC: Cary Gallagher | 2nd AC: Gavin Wynn | Chief Lighting Tech: Brad Jamieson | Lighting Tech: Jeff Ginvard & Christian Rice | Key Grip: Mark Parsons | BB Grip: Rick Phelps | Grip: Isaias Roiano & Brian Cooper | DIT: Stephen Latty | VTR: Robert Morales | PD: Sage Griffin | Wardrobe Stylist: Lindsey Meyer-Clough | Editorial: Monks | Post Producer: Monica Tyson | Editor: Billy Sacdalan | VFX: Natalia Kosinki & Mark Yamamoto | Sphere Creative Management: Alex Stamm | 

Process

A behind the scenes glimpse into how the sausage is made