TALES
Brand Identity + Logo Design, Film & Motion Graphics, Messaging, Art + Creative Direction
Main title sequences, motion graphics toolkit and brand identity for the BET Networks television series tribute to hip hop music and its spin-off talent search series.
NISHLA Design was approached by Visionary Ideas Entertainment to create the full motion graphics toolkit for the original, scripted anthology series, TALES, on BET Networks, Inc. Additionally, we created the title sequence and graphic elements for the series spin-off, “TALES Talent Search,” giving contestants around the United States an opportunity to secure a recording deal. TALES was envisioned by record producer, director and screenwriter, Irv "Gotti" Lorenzo as a tribute, both, to hip hop music and compelling stories with unpredictably-twisting plots.
The thematic backdrop of iconic hip-hop hits frames the creative narratives of this series and takes viewers on unexpected adventures. Using a unique director for each episode, the TALES series challenges the stereotypes, misconceptions, prejudices, and biases which often play out in life, whether internally or externally, and confronts viewers with the dilemmas of life's choices and consequences.
Initially, the design brief required a brand identity to capture the grit and feel of this series, but with a bold and lasting look that could translate across print and digital media and—eventually—apparel and other branded merchandise. The urban skyline and rough, textured treatment incorporated into the text speaks to the primary landscape of the series’ episodes and gives a nod to the tension and conflicts that arise in each unfolding story, as well.
After creating a brand identity that was ideal for its target audience, we were then asked to create a suitable title animation that would introduce each weekly episode. The series saw relatively quick success, and is in its third season of production and filming.
Once more, we were called on to expand on the work originally done for the TALES series. This time, NISHLA Design was asked to design the company website for Visionary Ideas, the parent company for TALES. The website project would officially give a home to the TALES identity, and all related Visionary Ideas service touchpoints, including film production, music production, consulting, talent management and marketing.
For the one-year period of January 2019-2020, the site maintained an average of 17k+ pageviews and over 8k+ unique visitors per month.
The Visionary Ideas website launch was a huge success. Our identity design, brand messaging, motion design, and art + creative direction further solidified the brand’s presence in the entertainment, media and management space, ushering in a wave of branded merchandise sales, TV series downloads, and music purchases.
Inspired by the TALES brand aesthetic, the TALES Talent Search title card sequence maintains the grit and texture authentic to the brand, while introducing the elements of stardom and performance.
The animation pushes through the visual space, synchronizing with the show’s main melody with rhythmic pulses and dynamics while capturing a sense of tension, drama and suspense.
