Underdog Entertainment, a New York-based production company, today announced that Daniel Azarian, a director of television commercials and branded entertainment, has produced a series of PSAs with the New York City Anti-Violence Project (AVP) entitled, “Bullying is Violence.”rnrnThe PSA is being released today, the one-year anniversary of Rutgers College Student Tyler Clementi’s suicide as a result of anti-gay bullying.rnrn”Thanks to Daniel Azarian and Underdog Entertainment, AVP is able to make the important connection between bullying and the severe and too frequent violence that impacts LGBTQ people every day and at every age,” said Sharon Stapel, Executive Director of the New York City Anti-Violence Project. “One year ago today, Rutgers University freshman Tyler Clementi took his own life after experiencing anti-LGBTQ bullying. These Public Service Announcements bring much-needed awareness to the growing problem of violence faced by LGBTQ people.”rnrnThe PSAs feature a varied demographic of people filmed in the style of a series of photographic portraits, addressing the issue of bullying. "Tyler Clementi’s suicide was the impetus for me to produce these PSAs," explains director Azarian. "When bullying gets to the point where people are taking their own lives, something has to be done." The PSAs also feature Claire Buffie (Miss New York 2010) and Ronnie Kroell (Bravo’s Make Me A Supermodel). The spots were shot by cinematographer Milton Kam and edited by Joseph Orlowski. Associate producers were Pete Macnamara and Matt Hockersmith.rnrn
rnThe spot can be viewed at www.IamAntiViolence.org.rnrn”Bullying is Violence” Public Service Announcements for the New York Anti-Violence Project credits: Produced by Underdog Entertainment; Producer/Director; Daniel Azarian, Cinematography; Milton Kam, Editorial; Joseph Orlowski, Associate Producers; Pete Macnamara, Matt HockersmithrnrnThe New York City Anti-Violence Project is dedicated to eliminating hate violence, sexual assault, stalking, and domestic violence in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and HIV-affected communities through counseling, advocacy, organizing, and public education. Visit www.avp.org for more information.rnrnDaniel Azarian has won five Telly Awards including Telly’s highest honor, the Silver Award. He most recently won two Tellys for the PSA, “Save Lolita.” Azarian has also directed and produced national spots for 3M’s Scotch-Brite brand and Horizon Organic. Blue-chip telecommunications firms and entertainment networks have licensed Azarian’s commercial spots for their US and international mobile networks.rnrnUnderdog Entertainment (www.UnderdogEntertainment.com) is a New York-based production company active in producing commercial spots, branded and traditional entertainment and film.Robert Michael Underdog Entertainment Contact Robert via email 212-807-9552 Underdog Entertainment on Facebook
Will Dempster, Partner & Head of Production at Mischief To Lead NYF Advertising Awards Film Craft Executive Jury
New York Festivals Advertising Awards® (NYF) unveils the 2026 Advertising Awards Film Craft Executive Jury. NYF has assembled a prestigious panel of visionary senior production and creative executives from top film and advertising companies. This esteemed jury will carefully review the shortlisted Film Craft entries, selected by NYF’s online Shortlist Jury, to identify the most groundbreaking and impactful work of the year. Leading this year’s Film Craft jury is Will Dempster, EVP, Head of Production and Partner at Mischief and Co-Founder of The Candy Factory. A visionary producer, Will has brought some of the industry’s most disruptive and boundary-pushing work to life, catapulting Mischief from start-up to multiple-time Agency of the Year. From orchestrating the Super Bowl’s first live broadcast interruption with Tubi to creatively deep faking global leaders to raise awareness for U.S. democracy, he has helmed projects many would deem impossible. Recognized as Head of Production of the Year by Ad Age in 2025, Will brings industry-leading expertise and fearless innovation to guide this year’s jury. “Film craft is where creativity meets obsession. This category celebrates the makers behind the camera who elevate great ideas through precision, artistry, and bold creative choices. This year's exceptional Film Craft jury and I are looking forward to seeing the work that will set the new global benchmark.”— Will Dempster, Partner & Head of Production, Mischief USA The 2026 Film Craft Executive Jury includes: Jury Chair - Will Dempster, Partner & Head of Production,... Read More