Ogilvy/ Mattel & Verizon | 1 min | 2024 | English Dialogue

Celebrating Barbie’s 65th anniversary, this first-ever collaboration between Mattel and Verizon reimagines Barbie as the face of Verizon’s 2024 holiday campaign. The spot transforms the iconic Dreamhouse into a fully connected “StreamHouse,” powered by Verizon Home Internet—blending nostalgia with a modern, tech-driven lifestyle.

As Director, I led the creative vision for Barbie’s 65th anniversary campaign video. I chose to bring the story to life through stop-motion using real Barbie and Ken dolls (11 Barbies, 3 Kens, and Miss Honey the dog), embracing their inherent articulation rather than masking it. This decision grounded the film in a tactile, nostalgic play pattern, while a hybrid approach—blending stop-motion with live-action—introduced a contemporary rhythm and humor that broadened its appeal.

Working closely with the Agency at Ogilvy and Mattel’s creative team, I directed the visual development of each room within the StreamHouse to ensure every space carried a distinct tone, function, and storytelling beat. I collaborated with Mattel’s Doll Stylists to define character through custom hair and wardrobe, shaping a cast where each figure feels intentional and expressive on screen.

This project balances brand heritage with reinvention—honoring Barbie’s legacy while evolving her world through a modern, connected lens of stop motion.

Credit

client: MATTEL & VERIZON

agency: OGILVY NEW YORK

directed by SIQI SONG

produced by NEXUS STUDIOS