Brain Games

In 2014, the TV show Brain Games was National Geographic Channel’s most-watched show, known for its optical illusions and playful cognitive science. For its third season, the show needed to shake up its style. NatGeo approached SpecialGuest to concept and create an attention-grabbing promotional announcement.

SpecialGuest and media production company 1stAveMachine directors Aaron Duffy and Bob Partington, who created OK Go’s famous music video for “The Writing’s on the Wall,” filmed a video based on three visual illusions with an emotional twist. The NatGeo team was deeply involved in developing the illusions and finding fun ways to capture each scenario.

We developed a strategy and story that took the illusions to a more emotional place, playing with the viewer’s suspense, drama, and romance sensors. The Brain Games project was nominated at the Emmy’s for Outstanding Promotional Announcement.