Publicis Media U.S. has recently made a significant acquisition by purchasing Picture Motion, a renowned social advocacy and cause marketing company with an impressive track record of developing campaigns for over 400 films, TV series, news, and media productions. Some of their notable projects include “American Fiction,” “Creed III,” and “Free Solo.” The terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, and discussions between the two companies began approximately a year ago.
Picture Motion will now be integrated into Publicis Media Content & Innovation (PMCI), a specialty entertainment division. This move will enable Picture Motion to contribute to the development of original film and television projects, collaborate with brand clients and entertainment industry partners, and provide services such as concept development, strategy, distribution, monetization, and promotional support. As part of the acquisition, eight Picture Motion employees will join Publicis Media.
Moreover, Picture Motion will work closely with PMCI’s Inclusion Investment Fund, which focuses on identifying and supporting content that amplifies diverse voices. This collaboration will allow Picture Motion’s clients to explore opportunities for integration in existing content and collaborate with creators to develop new material.
Founded in 2012 by Christie Marchese and Wendy Cohen, Picture Motion’s mission has always been to help storytellers, studios, brands, and nonprofits amplify their content and engage key communities and changemakers to drive social impact initiatives. Over the years, Picture Motion has worked with prestigious clients such as Apple, Disney, HBO, and National Geographic, contributing to projects like HBO’s “LFG” and Netflix’s “13th.”
Publicis Media’s President and Chief Content Officer, Eric Levin, expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating that it will enhance their ability to create award-winning advocacy and marketing campaigns in the media and entertainment industry. Picture Motion’s CEO, Brian Walker, will now join Publicis Media as the CEO of Picture Motion, while co-founder Christie Marchese will assume the role of EVP of entertainment partnerships.
Marchese emphasized that Picture Motion will continue to operate as before, serving entertainment clients with compelling stories that aim to engage audiences. With the support of Publicis Media, they will have access to a wealth of media expertise, enabling them to invest in innovative ideas, tools, and technologies for the future of storytelling.
This new collaboration between Publicis Media and Picture Motion holds great promise for the development of impactful and socially conscious content in the entertainment industry. The integration of Picture Motion’s expertise in social advocacy with Publicis Media’s resources and experience is set to bring about exciting opportunities for meaningful storytelling and community engagement.
