Promoting Anti-Racism through Sports: A Case Study
In a world where the power of visual storytelling cannot be underestimated, Aspen Films embarked on a mission to produce a compelling video project that would inspire change and promote anti-racism through the lens of sports. Collaborating with the City of Saskatoon’s Race Relations Branch, Aspen was tasked with creating a 90-120 second video that would echo the powerful message of ending racism.
Project Overview:
Aspen’s mission was crystal clear: produce, shoot, and direct a video featuring Saskatchewan-based athletes that would serve as a beacon of hope in the fight against racism. Drawing inspiration from the impactful “Take The Lead” video featuring Boston sports teams, Aspen aimed to craft a narrative that would engage, excite, and educate.
The project involved a one-day filming session, expertly handled by a two-person crew. The content was meticulously structured based on the client’s script and storyboard, ensuring that the desired message was conveyed effectively. The City of Saskatoon’s Race Relations Branch provided the location, offering a backdrop that resonated with the essence of the project.
The filming was strategically scheduled for May, coinciding with the Roughriders’ training season in Saskatoon for the 2022-2023 season. This timing not only added authenticity to the project but also allowed for the inclusion of relevant sports footage, enhancing the impact of the video.
Aspen Films created not only the main 90-120 second video but also edited three shorter 15-30 second clips tailored for social media platforms. Accessibility was a top priority, and the final video was equipped with closed captioning, ensuring that the message reached a wider audience, including those with hearing impairments. The final video product was also designed to be versatile and easily shareable across various platforms. Aspen ensured that the video could be downloaded and uploaded on Instagram, Facebook, websites, movie theaters, and even featured at The Grey Cup in Regina, maximizing its reach and impact.
Key Elements:
Pre-production: Aspen Films held 1-2 meetings to finalize the storyboard and other video details, demonstrating their commitment to aligning with the client’s vision.
- Music: A fully licensed background music track was carefully selected to complement the video’s emotional tone and message.
- Graphics: The video incorporated client-supplied logos, text, and other media elements, ensuring that the branding and messaging were consistent with the client’s objectives.
By working for the City of Saskatoon and the Ciy of Regina, and their deep understanding of the importance of promoting anti-racism through sports, Aspen Films successfully crafted a video that not only entertained but also enlightened and inspired. Through meticulous planning, skilled execution, and a commitment to inclusivity, we delivered a powerful tool for change—one that reminds us that we can all “Take The Lead” in the fight against racism.