"American Horror Story: Cult" Broadcast Promo Campaign Montage

Your phone buzzes. The message is as simple as it is terrifying: “It’s time we free them. Will you help?” Such is one tantalizing clue in the groundbreaking 6-week interactive, multi-platform campaign for the new installment of FX’s anthology series “American Horror Story: Cult.”

Directed by Ian Karr of IKA Collective, working in collaboration with creative agency Spark & Sizzle, and interactive video technology pioneer WIREWAX, the campaign moves way beyond traditional promos, representing a new level of viewer engagement and awareness. 

The interactive episodic experience features over 50 pieces of content released over six weeks, creepy clues coming in the form of Facebook Messenger “Bot” chats, the show's own social media platforms and website, and even real-life activations. All of which unlock a trove of hidden video content that offer further details into the plot and characters in installment 7 of Ryan Murphy's horror creation. FX Creative, FX Production and DP Paul Tolton partnered with the team to create the chilling visuals. 

Karr says, “FX has always been on the cutting edge of creative promotion. I’m thrilled that they recognized the potential of Wirewax’s technology coupled with IKA’s expertise and a strong creative shop like Spark+Sizzle. ‘American Horror Story: Cult’ was the perfect candidate for a groundbreaking interactive episodic experience. Everyone associated with the project is at the very top of their game and when you work with an entire team of all stars, you can do amazing things.”