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SAMAHOPE "The Crowd" | Direction/Creative by Visual Creatures

The talented folks at Visual Creatures worked with the non-profit organization Samahope to create an animated anthem showcasing the outreach of the company, which crowdfunds resources to give directly to doctors providing medical treatments to women and children who cannot afford them in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Latin America.

Samahope approached Visual Creatures to create a short explaining the organization’s unique idea to directly donate resources for doctors who travel overseas to treat patients, build clinical infrastructures, and train local medical personnel. While dealing with the harsh reality and medical industry is a serious subject, Visual Creatures decided to focus on the hopeful and positive impact of Samahope and the ability for anyone to contribute to the organization. Known for their humorous work, Visual Creatures incorporated their playful vision to create a :30 spot that is bright and uplifting, while still conveying the message of need worldwide.

“Visual Creatures have blown us away with their generosity and talent. We are humbled to have Samahope's story told in such a beautiful and compelling way,” comments Samahope’s Nina Pine. “This video will help us spread the word and fund more patients in need of critical medical care."

Music for the spot was done by innovative music house Black Iris. "When we first got a look at the great spot that Ryan had put together, we knew that the music would play a key role in delivering the message,” explains Black Iris founder and Executive Producer Daron Hollowell. “We wanted to create something that used unique and untraditional sounds but that delivered the right emotional tone, which to us was one ofhope and inspiration while also helping to move along and build with the animation on screen."

Samahope had complete faith in Visual Creatures’ creative vision, giving them free rein on the project after finalizing the script. The experience was edifying for the designers. “I learned a lot on this journey withSamahope; that so much good can come out of working with clients and agencies that trust you. Trust is something that is rare in this landscape,” explains Visual Creatures owner and creative director Ryan McNeely. “The intention of the spot was very different than working with a brand, and I think no matter who you are, as good as selling nacho cheese feels, it can’t compare to trying to help reach people in need of health care.”


Creative Credits:  
Client: Samahope
Co-Founder: Shivani Garg Patel
Co-Founder: Leila Janah

Spot: The Crowd
Creative Directors: Ryan McNeely & John Cranston
Executive Producer: Joe DiSanto
Producer: Anne Cuizon Pendola
Designers: Ryan McNeely, John Cranston, Tony Banik, Shawn Lee
Animators: Tony Banik, Frank Shi, Shawn Lee
Character Animator: Rachel Yonda

Music: Black Iris
Sound Design: Eddie Kim
Mixer: Lihi Orbach