Summary
Parallax animation for a documentary series on refugee memory, enhancing historical photos with respectful motion and depth.
Client
ERT3
Production
Scope
Parallax Animation
Historical Content
Related
Motion Graphics
Location
Kavala, Greece
Year
2023
The Challenge
The series marks 100 years since the displacement of 1.5 million Greek refugees from Asia Minor and nearby regions, in what became one of the largest population movements in modern history. It focuses on their journey of relocation and resettlement in Greece, drawing on personal accounts and rare photographs.
To support this narrative, archival images were used throughout the episodes. While rich in content, these still visuals needed animation to feel connected to the present-day interviews and narration. The task was to give them motion and presence without disrupting the historical tone of the series.
The Client
ERT3 is the regional public television branch of Greece’s national broadcaster. The series In A New Homeland (Σε Μια Νέα Πατρίδα) explores personal and collective memories of Asia Minor refugees through narration, interviews, and rare photographic material. The project was produced by Gullwing, responsible for the full creative direction and editing of the series.
Design Approach
Each episode included an average of five animated archival photographs. The motion work was based on layered files prepared by the production team, which allowed for smooth separation between background, middle ground, and foreground.
Using this structure, subtle camera movement and image layering were applied to create a sense of depth. The goal was not to dramatize the visuals, but to gently bring them to life without distracting from their historical weight.
Most of the images were black-and-white photos from the early 20th century. When necessary, extra graphic elements were added to complete the composition or highlight details. These animations were placed between interviews and narration, helping the pacing feel more balanced while keeping the viewer grounded in the period being explored.
The motion aligned with the rhythm of the voiceover but remained understated, supporting the story rather than taking focus.
Parallax Breakdown
Outcome
Parallax animation was delivered across all episodes of the series. The treatment added a sense of depth to key moments, helping bridge historical imagery with modern storytelling techniques.
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