Select moments from the finished pilot.
We started with a broad exploratory phase, creating a sea of styleframes to spur active discussion. Having design in front of Minhaj and his team allowed us to collectively and strategically understand the best approach for the show’s unique stage design and quick production timeline. After some evolution and experiementation, we landed on the top look – Microfiche – an ode to the investigative nature of the show.
Alternate approaches presented, see above credits.
From there, we evolved the look by diving into motion tests. The images below are just a slice of the overall bible, which were designed against a work-in-progress pilot script. Our goal was to make the stage feel dimensional, dramatic and all encompassing. We also established core brand signatures: fonts, colors, image treatments, labels, titles and “homebase” looks. Our work was codified in an 80 page deck – a foundation, which enabled the show to be in full production mode from day one. Here’s just a sample from that deck.
Sample Guides for hypothetical, future episodes
