This film “It’s Time” tells a moving story and employs powerful cinematic techniques to make an impact.

Our mission is to not only create powerful films that incite action, but do so through a strategy that encourages the film to be shared. Our friends at ListenIn Pictures recently wrote down some helpful strategies for creating a film with the intention of not only getting seen, but invoking support for and attachment to your cause.

One point they make that really resonated was an articulation of a strategy that we’ve been using to springboard our creative development process:

“Focus on stories of transformation and impact. Stories of people overcoming challenges inspire us to believe in our ability to make a difference.”

One of the most exciting (and challenging) parts of making a film is the creative development. One of the strategies we employ is to develop an insight that leads to a new idea by triangulating culture, audience and brand values. As was the case with the “It’s Now” film there are a few connected layers that all led to success:

1. Develop a strong, single-minded narrative - Choose a singular focus. Focus on the story of one individual. Dive deep and get intimate with the story of this individual character. This is the path to creating a powerful and emotional connection with your audience. This individual’s story should do the heavy lifting to bring your mission to life. Besides “It’s Time” we also like the way “The Girl Effect” approaches a global problem by focusing on the individual.

2. Break boundries - Does the film think disruptively? Be authentic; but embrace your desire to think differently if your character naturally lends itself to telling your story in a unique or provokative manner. A disruptive or creative approach will captivate and entertain your audience?

3. Engagement and Sharing - Create a story that embraces emotional elation. Make something so compelling that your audience innately wants to share it.  Engage them in the conversation and entice them to respond to your call to action.

4. Don’t cut corners, quality counts – You’d be amazed at the number of nonprofits who shoot their video on a flipcam and post it to Youtube un-edited. Going the extra distance to mesmerize your audience with a beautifully shot and professionally edited/mixed film will pay off in spades when it comes to sharing and engagement and will build the credibility of your cause.