We started from Matthew 5:9’s framework of using insights from Bible stories to explain social science research. Next, we gave structure to each video script with copy edits that maximized the learning value and animation potential of each word, phrase, and line.

During storyboarding, we developed a highly stylized aesthetic, using abstract shapes and illustrated scenes to create visual interest throughout the video—and across an entire series of videos that could grow and evolve over time.

The video series is now being employed across multiple use cases by the Matthew 5:9 team, including in their training programs, at conferences, on social media, on their website, and in email campaigns.

When representing “people in disagreement” through animation, you neither want to stereotype nor distract from the video’s central message. Instead of using human-like forms, we chose simple shapes with contrasting colors to symbolize people and people groups across the series. This elegant solution illuminated the video concepts, while keeping viewers’ focus on the themes that mattered most.