$6M movie, $18M campaign
The Oscars were last Sunday, and Anora cleaned up with Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actress. But let’s be real: the movie cost $6M to make and $18M for its campaign. Because in Hollywood, it’s not just about making a great film—it’s about making sure everyone knows it’s great. Neon threw down for screeners, ads and everything in between, proving once again that Oscars aren’t just won, they’re strategically secured. Moral of the story? Budget for the movie. Splurge on the hype.
Gap, but make it Parker Posey
If you’re not living under a rock, you’ve seen Parker Posey in White Lotus playing the ultimate rich lady on the verge. Now, she’s twirling into Gap’s “Feels Like Gap” campaign, bringing that same chaotic elegance to the fashion world. With a Mama’s Eyes soundtrack, dreamy choreography, and peak ’90s fits, Gap is doubling down on nostalgia with just the right amount of unbothered icon energy.
Spicy success
A Texas gal’s tearful TikTok moment over Buldak ramen led Samyang to send a custom pink truck full of noodles to her door, turning viral joy into a brand moment. The company, adored by Gen Alpha, has since mastered the art of blending viral moments with experiential marketing—think “sauce exchange” pop-ups and a “Spicy Ferry” in Copenhagen. With a mix of digital engagement and in-person flair, Samyang has gone from niche to a retail powerhouse, showing how internet love can turn up the heat in the real world. Ramen, fans, and viral creativity—who could resist?
Pepper Pick
Our GrubHub charges on last month’s credit card bill were even worse than we thought, so we’re hunkering down in the kitchen tonight and whipping up this Sheet Pan Chicken Meatballs with Tomato and Fetadish. With only four major steps, we’re predicting a 90% success rate.
