Meet Diogo Kalil | Animation and Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Diogo Kalil and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Diogo, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking is essential to success and to grow in life. Playing it safe will only keep you at the same place. I believe the essence of my work as a director involves taking risks, experimenting, and challenging myself both technically and creatively in order to achieve new results.

As a lead Director at Lobo, I bring an unconventional approach to video productions, exploring cutting edge technologies and mixed techniques that have led to the development of outstanding campaigns for world-renowned brands such as UNICEF, 7Up, Apple, Coca-Cola, Oreo, and countless others.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
One of my specialties as a Director at Lobo is working on experimental projects that involve the use of new technologies. These productions allow me to showcase my mastery of traditional animation techniques while implementing the use of cutting-edge technology to create outstanding products that have consistently left a lasting impact on the advertising industry.

I am currently leading the organization’s team in the development of a “Diffusion Rendering Engine,” using AI to render 2D animations. I enjoy orchestrating complex and pioneering mixed media animation with AI technology in order to develop state-of-the-art video productions.

I have directed several award-winning productions at Lobo such as the “UnfAIr City” Campaign for BBDO Dublin and Simon Community. The film used pioneering artificial intelligence technology to bring attention to the homeless issue in Ireland. This production was extremely successful and was recognized with countless industry awards such as a Gold Effie Award, a Silver and a People’s Choice Lovie Awards, a Silver and a Bronze Kinsdale Sharks Awards, 3 Bronze Institute of Creative Advertising and Design Awards, and several others.

I also directed the “1 Minute 46 Seconds” animation campaign for Hospital LeForte. The campaign video told the story of the heroic attitude of formula one racer, Ayrton Senna, who stopped midrace to help his colleague, Erik Comas, who had crashed into a wall. The mix of animation techniques utilized in this production allowed for an astonishing aesthetic that told the story from the point of view of the racetrack looking up. This campaign is also highly distinguished, being recognized with numerous coveted awards from prestigious institutions such as D&AD Animation, Cannes Lion, Clio Health, El Ojo, One Show Awards, The Webby Awards, and more.

The fact that my work has been honored with some of the most prestigious awards from prominent organizations in the industry is a tremendous achievement that I am extremely proud of.

I have been in the commercial animation field for over 20 years, and I enjoy the industry’s complexities and ever-changing nature. I have directed projects using 3D, 2D, stop-motion animation, and more. As new revolutionary tools are developed, it is important to learn about them, understand them, and see how they can assist us in improving the quality of our work.
I greatly value the work of artists, and I consistently strive to enhance artistry by not replacing the artist, but instead utilizing new technology in order to trespass boundaries.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Los Angeles is the go-to place for every cinema lover. I would probably drive to iconic movie spots that are unique to Los Angeles. For food, I would go to the Latin restaurants, from Cuban Cha Cha Chicken to classic Mexican burritos on Abbot Kinney in Venice. Although I prefer going out during the day in Los Angeles, the nightlife in the city is also exceptional with diverse concert venues for all music lovers.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I was fortunate to grow up in an environment that valued art. My parent’s social circle, family, and friends was filled with architects, designers, and artists. This exposure played a key role in my interest in both art and technology. Additionally, I believe the people who crossed my path professionally deserve recognition as they gave me opportunities to experiment while working with animation. Mateus from Lobo, Coke and Lucas Elliot from Boolab in Spain, all believed in the value of experimental animation and have supported me in the development of my craft.

Website: https://diogokalil.work/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diogo_kalil/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diogokalil/

Twitter: https://x.com/kalil_diogo

Image Credits
Mollie’s Sunshine, by Lobo, 7Up drawing by Anderson Omori