Director Peter Harton has signed with The Joneses for exclusive representation in the United States. It marks the first time that the American-born, Danish filmmaker has been represented in North America.
Harton began directing commercials in 2004 after working as an assistant director for several years. Represented in Europe by Chased by Cowboys (Duesseldorf and Paris), Le Grand Danois (Paris) and Agent Zoo (Copenhagen), he has helmed spots for such brands as Tuborg, cell phone company Sonofon and candy maker Ga-Jol.

Among Harton’s most notable successes is a viral ad called Speed Bandits for the Danish Road Safety Council to encourage drivers to slow down. It presents a spoof news report about a group of topless women who stand along Danish roadways waving speed limit signs. Posted in November on the website www.speedbandits.dk, the viral quickly spread to thousands of other sites, including YouTube and has been viewed more than seven million times in over 200 countries. Television broadcasts from as far away as Spain and Brazil have covered the campaign.

Much of Harton’s broadcast work has had a similarly deadpan, offbeat comic flavor. His recent efforts include a spot for Tuborg in which two men nearly beat one another to death while playing squash. At the end of the spot, they enjoy a Tuborg soft drink that coincidentally goes by the name “Squash.” Harton directed the spot for Danish agency Wibroe, Duckert & Partners.

“For me, simple ideas make the best ads,” says an enthusiastic Harton. “I like spots where the whole idea can be communicated in just two or three shots. My work is all about making it look different and interesting…. and having fun. For me it’s extremely important that I find the work I do inspiring.”

In addition to his commercial work, Harton has also directed music videos for Danish rapper Liam O’Connor (aka L.O.C.) and the Swedish band The Mopeds amongst others.

Harton was born in Eastchester, New York. He grew up in Germany and Denmark.

The Joneses executive producer Mel Gragido said that Harton has an original sense of humor and is a natural storyteller. “He directs commercials that you want to see again and share with your friends,” Gragido said. “He has a unique comic perspective and a willingness to take risks.”

Harton joins a growing list of Scandinavian filmmakers who have made The Joneses their U.S. home. The company also represents Danish director Jonas Arnby and Norwegian directors Hans Petter Moland and Sten.