Marta Chierego joins NERD Productions roster as a pioneering director who seamlessly merges live-action with CGI. Her experimental techniques and refined aesthetic have attracted luxury, fashion, and automotive brands worldwide.
Her global perspective is shaped by life in Northern Italy, London, Geneva, New York, and Los Angeles. Marta’s experience across 40+ countries infuses her work with authentic human connection.
Join us as we explore Marta’s craft, inspirations, and vision for the future of storytelling.
Your work spans from technology docu-style films to branded content for spirits like Don Julio. How do you approach storytelling differently across these diverse topics, and what remains consistent in your narrative approach?
I’m naturally curious, so I always approach each project with a clean slate. It’s the best way to create something that truly connects with an audience since they’re coming to the story fresh, too. What’s consistent across all my work, whether it’s tech, spirits, or fashion – is recognising the human intent behind every brand or product. At the core, these are signals of passion, dreams, or purpose, and that universal human element is what I tap into as a foundation. From there, it’s about balancing precise storytelling with a cinematic edge to create something that not only resonates but sticks emotionally.
As a polyglot who has travelled from Mongolia’s yurts to megacities across multiple continents, how do these diverse cultural experiences shape your ability to connect with subjects from different backgrounds?
Traveling has always been my greatest teacher. Growing up in Italy and then living in cities like London, Geneva, New York, and Los Angeles expanded my understanding of the world. I’ve shot projects in over 35 countries, and that has given me a beautifully unique insight into how people view the world. These experiences have taught me that while surface details may vary, every story holds a shared humanity. My job is to find that connection and build from it, no matter where I am or who I’m filming.
Your work seems driven by a desire to uncover authentic human connections. In an era of increasing digital complexity and AI, how do you ensure the human element remains at the heart of the stories you tell?
I’m passionate about technology and firmly believe that, when used ethically, it can propel humanity to heights we couldn’t achieve on our own. The key lies in defining our collective values as a diverse, inclusive society built on mutual respect and equal rights. While the world faces significant challenges, I focus on the immense potential for positive change. Stories about sustainability, circular economic models, regenerative practices, ethical connectivity, and respect for individual privacy inspire me. I’m excited by tools and projects that can transform healthcare, education, and infrastructure for the better. There’s so much untapped potential, and I love collaborating with brands committed to human well-being and planetary stewardship.
What excites you in the advertising industry right now, as a director? Any trends or changes that open new opportunities?
With all the talk about AI and technology, personal, authentic storytelling is becoming more central than ever. Many brands recognise that to resonate with their customer base, they must express thought leadership within the core values their brands represent. As a director, translating that into powerful human-led stories is incredibly rewarding. I also see great potential in the ethical use of new tools to expand the potential of how visual effects can be used to expand the limits of creativity.
What elements of a script set one apart from the other, and what sort of scripts get you excited to shoot?
I love it when a script hints at something visually ambitious and offers a chance to create iconic moments or push the boundaries of what’s expected. I’m drawn to scripts that evoke a visceral emotional response — something that feels personal yet universal. The story should immediately hit me at an emotional level and make me think, ‘How can I make this unforgettable for the audience?’
The best scripts provide a foundation but also invite me to bring something extra to the table. That creative back-and-forth is where the magic happens.
For you, what is the most important working relationship for a director to have when making an ad, and why?
It’s crucial to have a strong relationship with both the producer and the client. For me personally, having the right DP by my side is essential, it ensures I feel supported and empowered to deliver the full potential of my vision.
What is your favourite piece of work and why?
I love Unconditional because it flowed out of my subconscious and was shot on film. I also love AR Johwska because, with very few resources and some talented VFX collaborators, I was able to create something new that feels futuristic, elegant and organic.
And finally, since you are now a NERD, tell us a nerdy fact about yourself.
I taught myself English when I was in primary school because I wanted to play the same video games as my older brother. It was amazing because it exposed me to so many different registers — from LA ‘80s slang to RPG-style ancient English. Sitting by a computer screen with a dictionary in hand to figure out what was going on was magical.
See Marta’s work here.