Voyager kicks off its collaboration with newly signed director Spencer MacDonald through the launch of the latest commercial campaign for Rao’s Homemade. A filmmaker whose work bridges the gap between documentary and fiction, Spencer’s narrative style often explores where humanity intersects with the mysteries of the natural world. His collaborations span high-profile clients such as Airbnb, Lyft, and Volkswagen, with work featured in The Atlantic, Director’s Library, and Vimeo’s 'Best of the Year.'
Working closely with Voyager EP and co-founder Andrew Hutcheson, Spencer recalls Andrew’s thoughtful approach to every aspect of production on set for Rao’s. “Andrew’s ability to balance creative integrity with genuine care for everyone involved - the client, agency and crew - left a lasting impression on me,” shares Spencer. “It’s rare to find that level of kindness and support paired with such a strong commitment to storytelling and it’s a big reason why I felt drawn to Voyager. I’m incredibly excited to see the work we create together.”
Spencer’s filmmaking journey was shaped by a unique blend of artistic and functional influences, growing up as the son of an oil painter and an architect. His global travels sparked a passion for storytelling, leading him to pick up a camera and embark on a career in filmmaking. A pivotal moment came when his first Vimeo Staff Pick gained recognition, opening the door to a role at Avocados and Coconuts, the production company he credits with shaping much of his directorial voice. In the last four years, the Berlin-based filmmaker has crafted two short films including his debut short film 'Scarlet Medusa' and the Academy Award-qualified 'A Body Called Life,' which has won various awards, including Best Documentary Short at Raindance, and screened at over 30 film festivals. He is currently developing his first feature, a fiction titled 'Passengers.'
“It makes perfect sense to me that we discovered Spencer at a film festival; he’s an artist and storyteller first and you can feel that across his short films and advertising work,” shares director and co-founder of Voyager, Charles Frank. “He’s a director that inspires me personally and I’m so excited to have the opportunity to support his unique vision.”
“When we saw 'A Body Called Life' at Big Sky earlier this year, I remember turning to Charles afterward and saying, ‘We have to work with this guy,’” adds Andrew. “In that film, and across Spencer’s body of work in general, I saw a rare blend of curiosity, impeccable taste, and a wry sense of humour. In person, he’s an utter delight to work with and embodies all of the values we admire most at Voyager. I’m thrilled to welcome him to the team.”