Another Musicbed Challenge is officially in the books—and this year?
Electric.
The submissions pushed creative boundaries, and we couldn’t be more inspired! Huge thanks to everyone who showed up and made something truly unforgettable.
Now, it’s time to reveal this year’s winners for Best Spec Ad, Best Narrative, Best Documentary, and People’s Choice, who will be taking home their share of over $80K in grants and gear.
MUSICBED CHALLENGE SUMMER 2025 WINNERS
BEST SPEC AD: ilana nails
FEATURED MUSIC FROM MUSICBED
CREW
Director – Jon Primo (@jonprimo1)
Producer – ilana Martinez (@ilana.martinez)
DP – Noel Robles (@noelrrobles)
Talent – Alanys Bruckman (@alanysbruckman), Janice Dominguez (@goldendropofsun)
1st AC -Jose Cabrera (@joseacabrera_)
Gaffer – Josh Valentin (joshvalentinn)
Key grip – Tyler Dewitt (@tyler_thepilot)
Grip – Christian Inman (@christian.g.inman)
BTS – Baek Medina (@ekzy.studio)
Editor – Cal Laird (callaird) & Jon Primo (@jonprimo1)
Color – Quinn Battick (@q_pro9)
Sound – Oskar Justesen (@oskarjustesen_)
JUDGES’ FEEDBACK
From Creative Director/Cinematographer, Solo Koo | NFL, Microsoft, Nike
I really loved the unique concept with the POV perspective carried throughout the piece. The voice-over worked well as an inner monologue, adding more context as she moved through her daily routine. The cinematography was strong, and it was clear that everything from the set pieces to the lighting and camera movement was intentional.
From Founder & CEO, Dan Bulman | Adidas, Lululemon, Timberland, Vans
The concept stands out in its ambition and has clear originality. It avoids falling into the trap of being just another generic spec spot, which is refreshing. The narrative is compelling and holds attention throughout. There’s a clear arc that draws the viewer in and delivers an emotional payoff, which is no small feat in a short format. The music choice is thoughtful and enhances the emotional tone of the piece. It complements the narrative and helps drive pacing without overpowering it.
SPEC AD FINALISTS
BEST NARRATIVE: Revival.ai
FEATURED MUSIC FROM MUSICBED
CREW
Director and Script – Pontus Karlin (@pontuskarlin)
DP and editor – Patrik Johansson (@patrik_andre)
Actor (Main) – Kimi El Feky (@kimielfeky)
Actor (The Mom) – Ingrid Andre
Actor (Voice of Revival.ai) – Pontus Karlin
JUDGES’ FEEDBACK
From Co-Owner and Executive Producer, Starr Session | GoDaddy, Buick, Doritos
Great work. Appreciated learning more and more about the character with the little montages. I was intrigued and wanted to know where we were going, which lends to great music, sound design, and editing. Overall, great story, concept, etc. Left me wanting more.
From Producer, Jessi Baden | Salesforce, FedEx, LA28 (Olympics)
The acting was incredible. The music is definitely evocative. The relationship/closeness between the mother and son was well done, and the smallness/loneliness of his world was well depicted.
NARRATIVE FINALISTS
BEST DOCUMENTARY: Seawood
FEATURED MUSIC FROM MUSICBED
CREW
Director: Oliver Clague (@purposebuiltfilms)
Cinematograpy: Adam Laister (@adamlaister)
Editing: Amy Swan (@mamyswan)
Colourist: Alex Williams (@alex_williams92)
Sound Design: George Ireland
Art and Narration: Kirsty Elson (@kirstyelson)
JUDGES’ FEEDBACK
From Lead Post Producer, Casey Beauchamp | Adobe, Warner Brothers, CBS, Nike
Now that is how you set up a short film! Wonderful opening to this piece. A confident and mature doc that was clearly made by a filmmaker with a solid understanding of photography and tone. The speaker was heartfelt and the film’s visuals certainly held up with intention on every shot. The music served the piece nicely and I appreciated the sound effects to bolster the scenes. Altogether a touching and well-crafted film deserving of recognition. You can tell how much care went into production and I’d be interested to see this filmmaker approach another piece of varying tonality. Great job!
From Creative Fellow (GoPro), Abe Kislevitz | Ford, Oakley, Alaska Airlines
This video pulled me in right away and held my attention throughout. I loved the mysterious opening and the slow unfolding of the story – clues along the way to the final reveal. The music complemented the ethereal tone nicely, moving from mystery into a dreamlike atmosphere that matched the scene and the art.
DOCUMENTARY FINALISTS
Beneath the Surface – The Craft of Spearfishing
Dakar with one leg – Short DOCU
Tides of Tomorrow | Seven Generations. A life on the Lough.
PEOPLE’S CHOICE: Breathera Skincare
FEATURED MUSIC FROM MUSICBED
CREW
Director/DOP/EDITOR – Satya Gautam (@satya_films)
Director/Choreographer – Gili Twena (@gilitwena)
Dancers – Elena Shevchenko (@lena_petiko), Emma Segura (@emmalisa1309), Abigail Ortega (@k.abigail_garcia), Lien Vandenborne (@lienvandenborne), Catherine Wilson (@cath.wilsonn)
A special thanks to all who submitted their films, our panel of judges for their time and feedback, and our sponsors and partners. We look forward to next year’s competition!
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