With less than a week to go before the first Lions get announced, Rob Schwartz shares his predictions from the US contenders. Look out for his predictions appearing in the next issue of Shots magazine too.

According to the request, I am to limit my response to US contenders only. And I am limited to only two picks from my own agency. I will simply break a rule and say that I believe TBWA\Neboko, one of our sister offices in the Netherlands, has an outstanding chance of winning the film Grand Prix with their brilliant “Walk-In Fridge” idea they did for Heineken. That said, here are some excellent American contenders:

(1) I love Goodby Silverstein’s “Sprint Widget” for Cyber. I think it really demonstrates the brand idea of the “power of now.” It’s mesmerizing to watch, well-written and beautifully crafted. If you don’t know it, down load it and enjoy.

(2) Droga5’s “The Great Schlep” is an exceptional piece of comedy, pop culture and political persuasiveness. The Sarah Silverman film alone is wonderful and can win on its own. I think the double-whammy will come for the nice integrated package of the entire idea. Plus you can’t argue with the results.

(3) BBH’s “Dig Your Soul In The Streets” is an exceptional example of “I wish I’d done that.” The disruptive twist of launching in the streets first instead of the airwaves and then making a documentary of a great band…well, that’s just flat-out cool.

(4) Anomaly’s “Connectivity” for Converse is just a damn fine piece of outdoor. Great idea, well done.

(5) I can’t ignore Crispin’s “Whopper Sacrifice.” I love how this idea was a total reflection of Facebook behavior. And it was really funny. A new idea in a new medium. Nice.

So there you have it. My five American contendors. Good luck, everyone.

~Rob

Rob Schwartz is the Chief Creative Officer of TBWA\CHIAT\DAY in Los Angeles. If you have any comments or suggestions please email Rob Schwartz.