The High Five Conference, hosted by the Triangle American Marketing Association, is a yearly event designed to unite marketers and creatives under one roof. Its mission is simple: bridge the gap between strategy and storytelling to spark better collaboration.
When the AMA team approached us to produce the show opener for the second year in a row, they wanted something even bolder. The goal was to capture the energy of Raleigh’s growing creative scene, engage attendees from the start, and create a piece that would thrive on social media long after the event ended.
Turning Creative Friction Into a Superhero Story
We began by examining a familiar truth—how marketers and creatives often clash while chasing the same goal. That tension, while frustrating, is also where innovation happens. So, we asked: what if that dynamic played out like a superhero origin story?
From that idea, “The Client” was born. Enter Captain Creative and Marketing Man—two heroes who must overcome their differences (and their nemesis) to save the day. The result? A tongue-in-cheek tribute to agency life that turned the shared struggles of marketing and creative teams into something fun, relatable, and inspiring.
Crafting the Vision
This project tested every part of our creative process. With a condensed production timeline, we had to move fast—writing, storyboarding, scouting, building props, and shooting in record time. As a team made up of both marketers and creatives ourselves, we connected deeply with the story we were telling.
Using a mix of practical effects, custom set design, and digital VFX, we brought our heroes to life. Lighting and costume design amplified the cinematic feel, while quick pacing and witty dialogue kept the humor sharp. Ultimately, the piece struck the perfect balance—playful, professional, and packed with personality.
Why It Worked
The High Five opener didn’t just set the tone for the event—it embodied its message. It reminded attendees that collaboration between marketers and creatives doesn’t have to be a battle. In fact, when those worlds work together, the results can be super.
Final Thoughts
If you want to turn your next campaign or event opener into something unforgettable, we’d love to help you create it—let’s make it amazing.
