The Work That Made Me: Garrett Marks
Garrett Marks is a live-action director specialising in branded content and films. With over 20 years of experience, he has collaborated with top global brands including Adidas, Toyota, Samsung, Intel, HP, Wilson, Garmin, New Era, Maybelline, and Sony Pictures. Garrett is passionate about telling stories that are emotionally driven, visually captivating, and celebrate the art of humanity. He resides in Southern California with his wife and four children.
LBB> The ad/music video from my childhood that stays with me…
Garrett> I grew up in the 80s, and I still remember watching the Pepsi 'Attitude' commercial over and over. Every time I watched 'Home Alone'—which was a lot—it was a commercial that played right before watching the movie. It was just so cool, hip and youthful. And honestly, it's still as timeless as ever.
LBB> The ad/music video/game/web platform that made me want to get into the industry…
Garrett> Growing up in the 80s and 90s, I was a huge Spielberg fan. His films always took me on a journey, effortlessly blending adventure, drama, and comedy. Watching movies like that made me want to start creating films of my own.
When it comes to commercial work that first inspired me, Roman Gavras's spot All In for Adidas really stands out. The energy and vibe were incredible. Everything from the visuals and music to the editing, sound design, and colour—it all came together like a perfect blend.
Another spot that really fuelled my passion for directing commercials was Nike’s 'Write the Future' by Alejandro G. Iñárritu. Iñárritu did an incredible job of weaving together moments from around the world, showing just how interconnected we all are through the love of the game.
LBB> The creative work that I keep revisiting…
Garrett> The first time I saw the P&G 'Thank You, Mom' ad directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, it really hit me. It masterfully combined a strong narrative with raw human emotion, and there’s something so honest and real about it. It's a global underdog story that tells such an emotional story. Being able to tell such an emotional story within a short form commercial format has truly inspired me.
I also love this Nike Spot called “Find Your Greatness”. I loved how authentic and human this sports commercial felt, especially with the diverse mix of people from around the world. And hearing Tom Hardy's voiceover… that was one of the first times I really noticed a VO that felt so real and natural.
LBB> My first professional project…
Garrett> As a huge sports fan, I was thrilled when I got my first paid gig directing a commercial, especially since it was sports-related. I wanted to create something different—not a high-energy sports hype edit, but something that leaned on sound design and really captured the sensory experience of the game. Pretty sure the entire budget for that project back then was, like, $2,000… Haha!
LBB> The piece of work that made me so angry that I vowed to never make anything like *that*…
Garrett> Hmmm… I can’t pinpoint one specific commercial, but there are definitely a lot out there that make me want to gag! But seriously, with the right concept, story, and team, I’m convinced any brand can create an amazing and effective commercial campaign.
LBB> The piece of work that still makes me jealous…
Garrett> I love the Nike “Unlimited You” commercial by Daniels. It’s like they threw you into this wild, fun rollercoaster ride from the POV of different athletes, and you just hang on for dear life. The way they mix humour and energy makes it impossible not to get sucked in. It’s such a brilliantly crafted piece!
LBB> The creative project that changed my career…
Garrett> When my father passed away, I created a short film called 'Behind Greatness' to honour his memory. Sports were a passion we both shared, and making this film was a profoundly therapeutic experience for me.
The film found success at film festivals nationwide and led to new opportunities in sports and narrative commercial work.
LBB> The work that I’m proudest of…
Garrett> I'm most proud of 'Behind Greatness' because it was a labour of love made with a small group of friends who chipped in and made it happen. The budget was tight, so we leaned on a lot of favours, but it really brought a small creative community together. I’m incredibly proud of how the film turned out and the impact it had on those who watched it.
LBB> The recent project I was involved in that excited me the most…
Garrett> I'm currently directing an Adidas campaign that I'm super excited about. It’s always rewarding to work with a team that’s eager to push the creative boundaries and gives me the freedom to really go for it as a director.
I'm also working on three original long-form projects—two narrative feature films and one episodic documentary. I'm excited to spread my wings in the long-form space and refine my craft as a filmmaker. This is a great opportunity for growth and exploration, and I can't wait to see where it takes me.
