#Japan #Tokyo #SSFF & ASIA #Branded Movies #Kairi Manabe

The Essence of Creating Captivating Branded Movies

In an era where brand communication is rapidly evolving, the distinction between advertising and storytelling through cinema is becoming less defined. The third seminar in the "THINK by BRANDED" series, hosted by the Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia (SSFF & ASIA), features renowned Creative Director, Kairi Manabe. On this occasion, participants will delve into the creative process behind branded films, exploring what sets them apart from traditional advertising.

The Branded Movie Movement

Since its inception in 2015, the “BRANDED SHORTS” initiative has collaborated with major companies to create engaging branded content. This platform has grown to become a festival highlighting brands’ ability to narrate their identity through short films. The upcoming seminar with Kairi Manabe aims to unpack various elements essential for creating impactful branded movies. Participants can expect to engage with questions like:

• - What differentiates branded films from standard advertisements?
• - What are the hallmarks of a strong branded movie?
• - What makes viewers want to share a film?
• - What psychological triggers impact audience engagement?

Creative Director Kairi Manabe

A visionary in the advertising industry, Kairi Manabe has extensive experience collaborating with various brands, ensuring their stories resonate with audiences. Having worked with prominent projects like RADWIMPS’ “Role-Playing Music / SHIN SEKAI” and winning accolades at the SSFF & ASIA, his expertise in blending compelling narratives with brand messages is unparalleled. As the session unfolds, Manabe will guide aspiring creators in understanding how to cultivate narratives that captivate audiences and drive engagement.

The “THINK by BRANDED” Initiative

The “THINK by BRANDED” series, supported by Nittetsu Kowa Real Estate, aims to elevate companies' branding efforts through storytelling and innovative workshops. This initiative emphasizes the importance of recognizing and rediscovering a brand’s core values, which can be communicated through engaging narratives. The series is designed not just for brand representatives but also for creatives in various fields who wish to enhance their understanding of the storytelling approach to branding.

The Narrative Behind Branded Content

Recent discussions in the seminar explored how branded content is defined. According to Takuki Suzuki from Toray, a leading company in branded communications, the ideal customer experience is created not through overt promotions but by making audiences fall in love with the story. This philosophy aligns with the principle that when consumers enjoy content, they naturally develop positive feelings toward the brand behind it.

Event Highlights and Takeaways

The seminar will further unravel the potential of branded content as a long-term asset, contrasting it with traditional advertising that often fades with the campaign's end. Participants are encouraged to redirect their thoughts from merely creating content to focusing on what aspects of their brand they should 'brand' with storytelling.

As a part of this enlightening session, attendees will also explore how contributions from creators and marketing professionals can enhance branded storytelling. The session will feature case studies and discussions surrounding innovative examples of branded films, illustrating the diverse range of expressions possible.

Looking Ahead

The discussion around branded content aims to stimulate thoughtful insights on how brands can redefine their relationships with consumers. The insightful dialogue shared by Manabe will provide the audience with practical insights and prompt them to ponder, “What will our next branded project entail?” This series not only aims to promote the importance of storytelling in branding but also fosters community engagement in how narratives can shape corporate identities.

As video marketing continues to gain traction, the