Taylor's University and Sony Pictures Entertainment Malaysia Empower Future Creatives Through Spider-Man Poster Competition

Creativity, strategy and storytelling came together as students from the Bachelor of Mass Communication (Hons) in Advertising & Brand Management at Taylor’s University showcased their talent through the Sony Pictures x Taylor’s University School of Media and Communication – Spider-Man: Into the Art-Verse Poster Competition, an industry collaboration inspired by Marvel Studios’ upcoming film, Spider-Man: Brand New Day,released in cinemas nationwide on 30 July 2026.

The competition challenged Year 2 students enrolled in the Advertising Fundamentals module to conceptualise and design an original promotional poster based on a real creative brief from Sony Pictures Entertainment Malaysia.

Over six weeks, students explored the film’s themes, target audience and campaign objectives before translating their ideas into original poster concepts using traditional media, digital media, or a combination of both to encourage originality and authentic creative thinking.

The initiative attracted overwhelmingsubmissions, with 13 finalists shortlisted following a rigorous judging process. Five students were ultimately recognised for their outstanding creativity, strategic thinking and visual execution.

Their artworks will also be exhibited at GSC Mid Valley Megamall from 17 July to 17 August 2026, giving the public an opportunity to experience the students’ work alongside the promotional campaign for Spider-Man: Brand New Day.

For the Bachelor of Mass Communication (Hons) in Advertising & Brand Management, the collaboration reflects its commitment to providing authentic learning experiences that bridge academic knowledge with industry practice.

Cindy Poh Huay Yuet, Programme Director of the Bachelor of Mass Communication (Hons) in Advertising & Brand Management, said the collaboration demonstrates how meaningful industry engagement enriches student learning.

“The most meaningful learning in advertising and branding happens when creativity meets the real world. Through client-based projects and industry collaborations like this, our students discover how ideas can become work that informs, inspires and creates impact.”

She added that authentic industry collaborations enable students to experience professional expectations while developing the creativity, strategic thinking and confidence required in today’s advertising and branding industry.

Representing Sony Pictures Entertainment Malaysia, Catherine Chai, Marketing Director, commended the quality of the submissions and the students’ ability to interpret the creative brief.

“We were impressed by the level of creativity and originality demonstrated across the submissions. Each poster reflected a unique interpretation while capturing the spirit of Spider-Man through fresh ideas and personal perspectives.”

She added that initiatives like these allow Sony Pictures Entertainment Malaysia to support emerging creative talent while exposing students to the expectations of a real industry campaign.

For Champion Zhang Jun, the competition was more than a design exercise, it was an opportunity to think like a creative professional.

“This experience taught me that working on a real industry brief is very different from a classroom project. It’s not only about creating something visually attractive, but also about communicating a clear message, understanding the target audience, and staying consistent with the brand identity.”

Champion, Zhang Jun posing with his winning poster

Second Prize winner Tan Sher Lin said the project transformed her understanding of creative work.

“Designing something that looks visually appealing isn’t enough when it comes to a real industry brief. Every design decision needed to support the campaign strategy, target audience, and the story of the film.”

First runner-up, Tan Sher Lin showing off her winning poster

Meanwhile, Third Prize winner Haruka Nishio described the recognition as a defining moment in her creative journey.

“I was so surprised because I didn’t expect to become a finalist. I put a lot of effort into this poster, so now I feel rewarded. It is a great honour to be recognised in a competition connected with such a major film.”

Second runner-up, Haruka Nishio presenting her winning poster

The collaboration reflects Taylor’s University’s continued emphasis on experiential learning, where students are challenged to solve authentic communication problems while engaging directly with industry partners.

By integrating live creative briefs into the curriculum, students not only strengthen their portfolios but also gain valuable insight into professional creative processes, strategic communication and industry expectations.

As the winning posters make their public debut at GSC Mid Valley, the collaboration stands as a testament to what can be achieved when academia and industry come together to nurture the next generation of advertising and branding professionals.