JOJX Welcomes Director Madeline Clayton

Sep. 18, 2024

JOJX, the award-winning production company known for its boundary-pushing commercial work, is excited to announce the signing of Madeline Clayton to its esteemed roster of directors. With a reputation for crafting deeply emotional and relatable narratives, Clayton brings a fresh perspective to the JOJX team, enhancing its ability to create impactful, human-centered storytelling in advertising.

Clayton’s work is celebrated for its effortlessly authentic visual language, where every frame and character is rooted in honesty. Her approach is defined by a minimalist style that evokes maximum emotional depth, delivering stories that leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s her meticulous attention to dialogue and performance or her ability to work seamlessly with non-actors, Clayton creates cinematic experiences that resonate deeply with audiences.

Clayton said:

“I’m thrilled to join JOJX. The connection I felt with Jackson, Joe, and Sevasti from the beginning was undeniable. Their passion, commitment to creative collaboration and belief in me as a filmmaker made me feel instantly at home. JOJX’s ethos, craft, and vision align with mine, and I’m excited about what’s to come as we create work that reflects the human experience. We pitched a job together before we signed the deal, and their process and attention blew me away. I feel very supported both creatively and strategically.”

 

Clayton began her career as a producer before eventually shifting her focus to directing. She is based in New York and works internationally, earning recognition for her ability to tackle big emotional themes with intimacy. Notable campaigns include the heartwarming “Piggy Bank” for IKEA, which showcased her strength in working with actors to create genuine connections on-screen.

Sevasti Buford, Executive Producer and Partner at JOJX said:

"Madeline’s storytelling style is minimalist in approach but maximalist in feeling, and that’s exactly what we look for at JOJX. Her ability to take audiences on a sensory journey, whether through subtle soundscapes or emotionally driven performances, is unmatched. We’re beyond excited to have her on board.”

 

Clayton’s body of work includes award-winning pieces such as “She’ll Be Right” for the United Nations, which won a Bronze Cannes Lion and a 1.4 Award for Brilliant Filmmaking. The film, which advocates for global gender equality, was also nominated for a Webby and shortlisted for the Young Directors Award. Her short film “Nineteen” garnered international recognition and is another example of her talent for balancing sensitive themes with powerful impact. Clayton was also selected as shots’ New Director of The Year in 2023 and is continuously tapped to direct commercial films for major brands like Qantas, Gillette Venus, Maybelline, Sorel, Toys for Tots, and the Mayo Clinic, capturing the highs and lows of the human experience.

Clayton’s signing is a testament to Buford’s recent appointment as Executive Producer and her commitment to diversifying the roster, enhancing directorial representation, and strengthening the company’s creative strategy.