Michael Phelps Stars Alongside Danny McBride In New "Call Of Duty" Ad Set In Space

A new spot for Activision's "Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare" delivers an "explosion-packed, celebrity-studded fantasy blending live action and computer graphics, ultimately featuring surprise banter" between swimmer Michael Phelps and comedian Danny McBride, according to Gabriel Beltrone of ADWEEK. The live-action trailer from 72andSunny, L.A., "opens on a young man beset by dire news reports." Beside himself, he "hops in a spaceship and takes off from Earth altogether." 72andSunny Group Creative Dir Matthew Curry said, "We instantly loved the idea of taking Michael Phelps, the winningest human on Earth, and putting him in space to see how he fared. Danny McBride was the perfect person to steal his kill, and his thunder" (ADWEEK.com, 10/25). Phelps said, "I’ve literally been a fan of the game for so long. To be able to play before it comes out and work with some of the guys -- it’s been absolutely incredible. I do play the game a fair amount ... maybe sometimes too much." He added, "Where we were shooting was kind of wild. Danny and I were just playing off each other, talking trash. It was really tough to keep a straight face with him just firing off super funny comments left and right. It was fun. The spots in the past have been incredible, and being able to work with him was awesome" (TIME.com, 10/25).