New Digital Agency, Unknown Film Organization, Launches with Eye on Streamlined Video Production
New York City is now home to Unknown Film Organization (UFO), a creative agency and production company founded by a team of industry veterans, including those with experience at Crunchyroll. The agency, announced Wednesday, aims to disrupt the traditional agency model by offering streamlined video production for the internet, focusing on both live-action and animated content. UFO’s founders believe high-quality video doesn’t require massive budgets or sprawling crews, a philosophy born from their own experiences creating viral hits like “The VelociPastor.” This new venture signals a shift towards more agile and cost-effective digital content creation, potentially impacting marketing strategies across various industries.
The driving force behind UFO is a commitment to authenticity and a rejection of what they describe as the “costly bloat” often associated with large-scale agency productions. Director and producer Jesse Gouldsbury, formerly the head of production at Crunchyroll, articulated this vision, stating, “You don’t need a massive crew and millions of dollars to make something that looks amazing. We’re here to prove that with the right people, and the right kind of trust in what they can deliver, a company can flourish.” This ethos is rooted in Gouldsbury’s early career, beginning with digital video content creation on YouTube in its formative years, and honed through projects for major clients like Starz, HBO, and Netflix. He credits his experience producing “The VelociPastor” although at Crunchyroll as a key inspiration for launching UFO.
From Viral Dinosaur Priest to Digital Agency
The origins of UFO are inextricably linked to the 2017 comedy horror film, “The VelociPastor.” Directed by Brendan Steere, the film follows a Catholic priest who gains the ability to transform into a velociraptor when angered. The film is available for streaming and rental on platforms like Apple TV, Fandango, and Tubi. Produced on a remarkably low budget of $36,000, according to Wikipedia, “The VelociPastor” gained a cult following and demonstrated the potential for independent filmmakers to achieve viral success with limited resources. The upcoming sequel, “The VeliciPastor 2,” directed by Gouldsbury, further solidifies the brand’s unique appeal and demonstrates the team’s ability to build upon an unconventional concept.
Gouldsbury’s experience at Crunchyroll, a global leader in anime streaming, provided valuable insights into audience engagement and content distribution. He wasn’t alone in bringing that expertise to UFO. The agency has assembled a team of seasoned professionals, each with a proven track record in the digital media landscape. This includes Alex Krokus, serving as creative director, whose graphic novel “Talking to My Father’s Ghost” was recognized by both Forbes and the New York Public Library as a top graphic novel of 2025. Braith Miller, the head of production, previously oversaw in-house content at Crunchyroll, including anime documentaries and podcasts, and was involved in the development of the company’s mascot, Crunchyroll-Hime. Adrian Apolonio, head of marketing, brings experience from Netflix and Frederator, where he built internal production teams for anime marketing. Rounding out the leadership team is Nicholas Fung, the post-production supervisor, whose work includes editing the viral “Cyberpunk: Edgerunners” AMV, which became the most viewed video on Netflix’s YouTube channel.
A New Approach to Digital Marketing
UFO’s core philosophy centers on embracing limitations and celebrating the “handmade craft” of video production. The team believes that imperfections can add character and authenticity, distinguishing their work from the often-polished aesthetic of mainstream advertising. This approach is particularly relevant in today’s digital environment, where audiences are increasingly drawn to content that feels genuine and relatable. “We’re not afraid to indicate our rough edges,” Gouldsbury explained. “Our biggest influences have always been productions that had to work within their limitations. We love when you can see the handmade craft and effort in a video, we don’t want to make things that polish away that creative intent.”
The agency’s launch is backed by a seed investment from James Tynion IV, the New York Times bestselling comic book writer and producer. Tynion’s production house, Tiny Onion, will be one of UFO’s first clients, signaling a strong vote of confidence in the agency’s potential. “For the last two years, Jesse and I have spent long nights talking about the frontier of digital video, and the seemingly limitless possibilities of what you can do with a robust audience on platforms like YouTube,” Tynion stated. “At a certain point, I wanted to stop talking about what might be possible, and start figuring out how to make it all real. My company, Tiny Onion, has ambitious plans for its partnership with UFO, and I can’t wait for everyone to see that ambition come to life.” This partnership suggests a focus on leveraging strong audience relationships and innovative content strategies.
The Future of Digital Video Production
UFO’s emergence comes at a time when the digital video landscape is rapidly evolving. The rise of platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels has created new opportunities for short-form video content, while streaming services continue to dominate the long-form market. The agency’s focus on cost-effective production and creative storytelling positions it to capitalize on these trends. By challenging the traditional agency model, UFO aims to empower brands to connect with audiences in a more authentic and engaging way. The agency’s emphasis on embracing limitations and celebrating the creative process could resonate with a generation of viewers who are increasingly skeptical of polished advertising.
The agency’s success will likely depend on its ability to deliver on its promise of high-quality video production without the exorbitant costs typically associated with agency work. The team’s combined experience and commitment to innovation suggest a strong foundation for growth. As digital video continues to evolve, agencies like UFO that prioritize creativity, authenticity, and efficiency are likely to thrive. The agency’s initial focus on serving clients like Tiny Onion will be a crucial test of its capabilities and a showcase for its unique approach to digital marketing.
Key Takeaways:
- Unknown Film Organization (UFO) is a new digital agency focused on streamlined video production.
- The agency is founded by veterans of Crunchyroll and the creators of the viral film “The VelociPastor.”
- UFO aims to disrupt the traditional agency model by offering cost-effective, high-quality content.
- The agency is backed by a seed investment from James Tynion IV and will partner with his production house, Tiny Onion.
Looking ahead, UFO will be focused on building its client base and delivering innovative video content for the digital landscape. The agency’s success will be closely watched by industry professionals and marketers seeking more efficient and effective ways to connect with audiences. We will continue to monitor UFO’s progress and report on its impact on the digital video industry. Share your thoughts on this new venture in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with your network.