Graphic design in film and television is mainly thought of in terms of poster art, opening credit sequences and title logos. We all tend to forget that graphic designers are also very much involved in the creation of set design elements and props. These unsung heroes provide the physical pieces that allow both actor and audience to become enveloped in the stories and worlds being portrayed.
More specifically, these elements can be anything on camera that has graphics or written type: think building signage, packaging, book covers, currency or hand-written notes that a character may be reading.
Perhaps the most well-known entities in this realm of design are MinaLima and Annie Atkins and when you see the work they’ve done, you’ll know exactly why. In a time when digital techniques and effects are at the forefront of the film industry, it’s refreshing to see that even now, print design continues to persevere.
MinaLima
Husband and wife design duo Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima are responsible for crafting the visual world for the entire “Harry Potter” film series as well as the elements of Diagon Alley at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, Florida.
They’ve continued to graphically imagine J.K. Rowling’s work with the “Fantastic Beasts” films and have lent their skills to Academy Award-winning films “Sweeney Todd” and “The Imitation Game.”
If you are ever in London, be sure to check out the House of MinaLima to get up close and personal with the designs used in the “Harry Potter” films as well as their other works.
Annie Atkins
If you’ve seen Wes Anderson’s “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” you have Annie Atkins to thank for creating some of the most incredible design pieces that have ever made it to the big screen.
Since then, she’s had a hand in creating graphic works for “The Box Trolls,” Steven Spielberg’s coldwar thriller “Bridge of Spies,” and Wes’ new film, “Isle of Dogs.” Check out the trailer below!
