StoryCorps and the NFL Launch an Animated Ad to Bring People Together
Two highly influential entities join forces for a social purpose. StoryCorps, the human conversation archive, and the National Football League (NFL), unite to produce and air a public service announcement with animation. This action is part of StoryCorps' One Small Step program, which directly seeks to reduce social polarization. The central idea is simple but powerful: connect individuals with different ideologies to talk. The NFL brings its massive audience, spreading this message during peak viewership moments, such as the playoffs and the Super Bowl. 🏈
An Animation That Narrates a Real Conversation
The spot, titled 'The Rivalry', does not start from a fictional script. It is based on a real recording from the StoryCorps archive between two die-hard fans of rival college football teams. The animation brings to life this audio dialogue, transforming it into an accessible visual narrative. The graphic style is chosen to connect emotionally with a very broad audience, illustrating how a shared passion for sports can overcome other deep differences. The visual art acts as a bridge, making an intimate conversation tangible.
Key Aspects of the 'The Rivalry' Project:- Authentic Origin: The story comes from a real archived interview by StoryCorps, providing credibility and genuine emotional weight.
- Visual Adaptation: An audio is transcribed into an emotive and symbolic animation language, designed for universal understanding.
- Central Message: Demonstrate that common points, like love for a sport, can be the starting point for dialogue and understanding.
"Perhaps the biggest touchdown of the season would be getting two fans to argue without insulting each other."
Strategy: Using Sports as a Social Catalyst
This collaboration goes beyond a simple ad. It represents a deliberate strategy to leverage the vast professional sports culture and its reach to address fractures in society. By integrating this content into its prime programming, the NFL not only entertains but also attempts to position itself as a facilitator for constructive conversations. The project shows how major media and organizations can allocate resources to campaigns that prioritize mutual understanding over passive entertainment