Panoptica has added director Josh Cohen to its roster for spots and brand content. 

Cohen’s portfolio includes work with brands such as Cup Noodle, Citi Bank, and Mountain Dew. His short films have garnered awards and critical acclaim, reflecting his ability to weave compelling narratives with striking visuals. Notably, his work on the start-up Haven and his published poetry have showcased his versatility and creative depth.

Cohen’s journey into directing began with his roots in graphic design and art direction, transitioning seamlessly into commercial directing. His approach to storytelling is heavily influenced by his varied experiences and his education at SVA in New York. Cohen’s style is adaptable yet distinct, often integrating elements of humor and innovative visual narratives into his projects.

Among the projects Cohen is currently developing are a series inspired by his teenage years in a unique pet shop, a narrative about teenage security guards, and a guide on love– all highlighting his talent for finding inspiration in the curious underbelly of the everyday.

Cohen’s decision to join Panoptica came after being favorably impressed upon meeting company founder Hughes William Thompson and executive producer Roan Bibby. Cohen said, “Their focus on enhancing the director’s creative voice rather than just commercial appeal immediately resonated with me.” Cohen is drawn to Panoptica’s comprehensive support system and its commitment to original content, which aligns with his aspirations to push creative boundaries and explore new narrative possibilities.

While earlier on he was at one point with production company Minimal, Cohen comes from a predominantly freelance career. “The support from a well-run organization like Panoptica changes the game for directors, especially when stepping into larger roles and projects,” he said. 

Thompson added, “Josh has a knack for creating work that leaves an indelible mark on the audience. He’s a master of curating the frame, and his vision for casting, performance style, and art direction result in content that is surprising and often deliciously peculiar.”