Making the scary stuff easy.
agency: Citizen
client: Turbo Tax
the ask:
Citizen Relations, a global PR agency based in Toronto, challenged us to create a fresh, exciting way to promote TurboTax, something that would break through the clutter and make tax season feel a little less intimidating. The solution: an 11-minute horror short film that reminded people not to be afraid of doing their taxes. We brought the entire production to life within
our walls, from shooting and exceptional on-set production, to in-house editorial, VFX, colour, original music, sound design,
and final finishing — delivering a bold, unexpected campaign that turned tax fear into fearless filing.
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Production
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Editorial & VFX
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Colour Grading
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Original Composition & Sound Design
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Online Finishing
execution:
delivery:
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11 minute short film
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Full suite of aspect ratios for social
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teaser cut downs
How We Made Tax Season
the Star of a Horror Film
Shooting a short horror film as an ad for TurboTax was an unexpected thrill, a bold creative swing that paid off. We leaned into classic genre tropes with a modern twist, turning tax season anxiety into suspenseful, cinematic storytelling. From eerie lighting and sharp pacing to a finale that delivered both chills and clarity, the spot blurred the line between branded content and entertainment. Online trailers and cutdowns extended the experience across platforms, teasing the full story and pulling viewers into the fear and relief of facing their taxes head-on. What a different and great way to advertise...unexpected, memorable, and impossible
to scroll past. The team at Citizen was truly great to work with.
A collaborative, fearless, and fully committed to making something bold.
