UNBOXED GROUP x HBO MAX
The White Lotus
Conceptual design and art direction from pitch through completion, shaping the scenography, event styling, green carpet, and a 16-foot custom chandelier inspired by the show that anchored the afterparty. Authentic Thai representation was a central priority, reflected through entertainment, culinary partnerships with Thai restaurants impacted by the LA fires, and a filmed performance featuring local traditional Thai dancers. The creative direction was so well received it was adapted for HBO’s Bangkok premiere, extending the work’s impact globally. The event garnered acclaim from HBO, talent representatives, and influencers, and was featured in BizBash, the Hollywood Reporter, and The New York Times.
Creative Lead
Cecilia Cruz
Director, Performance
Bec Stupak Diop
Creative Director
Kyle Absolom
Executive Producer
Damon Guilfoyle
Elevating the prescreen from key art to performance art.
Inspired by Mike White‘s use of shadow as a signal of unease beneath paradise, we reimagined the series’ visual language as a filmed shadow-dance installation for the pre-screener portion of the event. Drawing from the intimacy of traditional Thai shadow puppetry, dancers were staged behind 20 feet of backlit muslin, creating a mesmerizing loop that is both restrained and quietly mischievous. A deliberate departure from the standard pre-screen display of static key art, the piece was lauded by HBO for its cultural specificity and energetic resonance with the show.
