Michael Kortlander
Film & Advertising
I have worked at the highest levels of advertising since 2011. I am fluent in all aspects of branded storytelling, capable of leading a campaign from concept through post. I have filmed with people such as Awkwafina, Cynthia Erivo, Elliot Page, Myles Garrett, nomadic tribes in Africa, many bands, artists, and more. I have contributed to projects for Nike + LeBron James, Drake, Megan Thee Stallion, Nicole Kidman, and Kelly Clarkson, among others.
Meta AI Campaign
Directed & Creative Directed a 12-part series for Meta about emerging marketing strategies with AI. Watch
LG Global Campaign
Led a global team of artists, influencers, and athletes to create this massive campaign for LG. Our anthem film is approaching 6 million views. Watch
Tinder Global Campaign
Led a global team to showcase what it means to Put Yourself Out There. This project included stories about everyday Tinder users, Gen-Z influencers, and the incomparable Megan Thee Stallion.
Anthem Film
Megan CTA
Waterboys
Traveled to Tanzania with NFL players to document the impact of clean water. Watch
TINCUP Whiskey
Collaborated with Ei digital to direct a brand refresh centered around casual outdoor enthusiasts. Watch
Fujifilm
Documentary-style spot featuring photographer, Sita McVay. I collaborated closely with Sita to bring her style into our film. Watch
Mission Clean Water
Personal project documenting the organization's first clean water project in Uganda. I continue to sponsor the girls featured in this video and they are now enrolled in secondary school. Watch
LG - Maris Jones
Documentary for LG featuring the artist Maris Jones. Watch
LG - Superorganism
Documentary for LG featuring the band Superorganism. Watch
OUCU
Creative Directed and Directed a campaign for my local bank - Ohio University Credit Union. It was a chance to support a local business while making something beautiful. Watch
Tourism California
"Born To Be Wild" campaign, co-directed with Ramaa Mosley. Watch
The Clocksmith
Personal project documenting the art of horology with Bob Loudy. Watch
McDonald's
Documented a local meetup group for seniors. Watch
Chikumbuso
Personal project documenting a unique education program in Zambia. Watch
UPS
The story of James Leitner's walk across the US for clean water. I have worked with James ever since we met on this project.
Mini Cooper
I directed this spot for the iconic car brand. Watch
Ad Council - Honest Yearbook
I co-directed this anti-bullying campaign with Shea Vaughan Gabor. Watch
Susan & Robert
Personal project about a poetic couple living in Ojai, CA. Watch
Tigerball
Bandcycle
In 2010, my friends bicycled across the USA to check out local music scenes. I directed this web series. Watch
