Netflix and Wall Street Journal Custom Studios embarked on a groundbreaking journey with The Charles, a digital agency based in SoHo, NYC. The project, dubbed ‘Cocainenomics’, blended the latest in Web GL technology and hard journalism to create an award-winning digital experience that pushed the boundaries of native advertising. The idea was to present a business and economics story behind the notorious Medellín cartel, a concept that was both unique and captivating.
The results were nothing short of phenomenal. The project won several awards including ‘Best Branded Editorial Experience’ from both The Webby Awards and Cannes Lion, and ‘Digital Design & Website 2016’ from D & AD. The interactive quiz and map successfully communicated the length of the drug trade’s influence over continents and decades, providing a visual stronghold of the Medellín Cartel. Both Netflix and Wall Street Journal Custom Studios, along with The Charles, received high acclaim for this innovative approach to blending technology and journalism.
- Blending hard journalism with technology can result in a unique, engaging experience.
- Interactive elements in digital media can provide a visual representation of complex concepts.
- Pushing the boundaries of native advertising can lead to award-winning results.