Nik Kleverov

Nik Kleverov is an Emmy-nominated creative director, filmmaker, and entrepreneur specializing in artificial intelligence and storytelling. As co-founder and chief creative officer of Native Foreign, a Los Angeles-based creative agency recognized for design-led storytelling, Kleverov has developed work for brands in entertainment, technology, and lifestyle sectors. His experience includes roles at studios such as Digital Kitchen and Bungie. As an immigrant and the son of an artist persecuted by the Soviet government, Kleverov brings a distinct perspective to his work, influencing his approach to creative storytelling, AI in filmmaking, title sequence design, and live-action commercials.

Kleverov's early career in prestige television included editing and cinematography, leading to his role as director of photography on main title sequences for Netflix series such as "Narcos" and "Bloodline." His work on the "Narcos" main title sequence earned him an Emmy nomination and recognition for visually impactful storytelling. He has also written and directed commercials, branded entertainment, and documentary television for clients including AT&T and IMAX.

Kleverov has contributed to advancements in AI-generated content, directing "Critterz," one of the first animated shorts created entirely with visuals generated by OpenAI's DALL·E, and producing the first commercial using OpenAI's Sora for Toys "R" Us. The "Critterz" short premiered at Annecy, Tribeca, and Cannes Lions and received a PGA Innovation Award nomination. Kleverov was selected as one of seven Sora alpha artists by OpenAI, joining a select group of creatives with early access to text-to-video technology. The Toys "R" Us brand film, produced with Sora, premiered at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.

Kleverov's work in AI storytelling extends beyond advertising. He wrote and directed "Memory Maker," a science fiction drama set in a post-apocalyptic world, as part of an AI-native anthology series. "Critterz" is in development as a feature-length adaptation by Vertigo Films in partnership with Native Foreign, with the screenplay written by the team behind "Paddington in Peru" and "The Adventures of Paddington." His projects have earned multiple Davey Awards and recognition from festivals including Tribeca and Annecy.

Kleverov is also recognized as a thought leader on the future of AI in entertainment, participating as a panelist at industry events such as AI on the Lot, alongside figures from the entertainment industry. He maintains that compelling storytelling remains essential, regardless of technological advancements, emphasizing the importance of narrative in creative success.