On My Radar: Leo Zuckerman

What’s the most creative advertising idea you’ve seen recently?  

Parallels, for Jim Beam and featuring Willem Dafoe has to be one of the most influential and memorable ads I’ve seen. It’s bold and introspective. It has a palpable gravitas, with each scene presenting an alternate version of a man’s life. It communicates the importance of making bold decisions. A message that I strongly identified with, and still do. Now, when confronted with a life decision, I think of Jim Beam and the importance of being bold. Well played, Jim Beam. Well played.

What website(s) do you use most regularly?   

Spending many days on the road, speedtest.net has found its way high up on my frequented websites. It’s like the digital equivalent of a pocket knife or a compass; an everyday useful tool. Knowing that I’ve got a strong and reliable internet connection is some weird modern comfort that makes me feel at home. 

What’s the most recent piece of tech that you’ve bought?  

A brand new Apple Display. Like a Ferrari, it looks beautiful just sitting there. All gleaming and machined from one single slab of aluminium and all. It’s quite like sculptural art, actually. Just looking at the simple and pure design makes me feel inspired. You don’t even have to turn it on. But it’s quite nice when you do that too. 

What product could you not live without?  

While I get no compensation for being an Apple fanboy, I’d say the product I can’t live without would be my iPhone. Left it in the back of a cab recently, and I felt like I’d lost my right arm. It’s wild how this small device is the first thing we turn to in order to do almost anything. A real reminder of how connected — and disconnected — we all are. 

What’s the best film you’ve seen over the last year?  

Easy answer; Anatomy of a Fall. It’s a beautifully layered murder-mystery exploration of truth and perception. Every character has their flaws, the twisting plot keeps you guessing, and there’s a 50 Cent cover which I particularly love. 

What film do you think everyone should have seen?  

I think everyone should be legally mandated to watch Kubrick films. You want to get a driver’s license? You have to watch 2001: A Space Odyssey. You want a passport? Cue up Full Metal Jacket. The films dive deep into the human experience in a way that’s incredibly captivating, provoking and entertaining. 

What’s your preferred social media platform?  

Since I’ve been documenting my neighbourhood’s baked goods, I’ve been blown away by the power of TikTok, particularly, the opportunity for creators. If you have something to say, TikTok will connect you with your audience. Discussing pastries was experimental, but it really opened my eyes to the platform and what it is capable of. 

What’s your favourite TV show?  

Recently I’ve been a big fan of Ripley and Severance. I’m a sucker for these slow-burn psychological mysteries with incredible visual palettes. The deep nuances of Andrew Scott’s portrayal of Ripley are captivating, while the world-building and retro-futuristic style of Severance is something I can’t get enough of.   

What show/exhibition has most inspired you recently?  

I had the good luck to see Ai Weiwei’s newest show, Making Sense. It’s such a powerful blend of art and social commentary that really makes you think. It resonates on so many levels, like a good film that leaves you reflecting long after it’s over. 

If you could only listen to one music artist from now on, who would it be?  

Leonard Cohen. His lyrics hit you right in the feels and capture the complexities of being human. There’s a depth to his music that I find to be just timeless.