WW2 Headquarters:
Bringing Clarity to Complex History
Illustrated map animation, motion graphics support
Illustrated Maps for Wartime Storytelling
WW2 Headquarters is a documentary series exploring key moments, decisions and operations from the Second World War. While the film primarily uses live-action storytelling, archive footage and expert insight, the production team needed clear, accessible animated sequences to help viewers understand the geography and movement behind several complex wartime operations.
The Little Wild Ones was commissioned to create illustrated and animated map sequences that brought structure and clarity to the storytelling. Working closely with the director, we developed a simple, historically respectful visual style that complemented the tone of the film without distracting from the narrative.
Our Role on the Project
My contribution formed one part of the wider production, focused on turning complex military operations into accessible, visually clear maps. Working closely with the director and production team, I created:
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Illustrated base maps referencing real historical layouts
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Clean troop-movement animation designed for clarity
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Subtle motion graphics overlays used for emphasis
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Simplified, cohesive visual language to match the tone of the documentary
The aim was not to be flashy but to capture the style of the era to support the storytelling, helping viewers follow the narrative without distraction.
Motion Graphics for Documentary Storytelling
Our contribution included:
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Illustrated operational maps showing troop movements, key locations and strategic shifts
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Clean, unobtrusive animation designed to support, not overpower, the live-action footage
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Geographically accurate layouts based on historical reference materials
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Motion graphics enhancements for scene transitions and contextual overlays
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Adaptation of designs for social content and additional cut-downs
These sequences help viewers follow the tactical flow of events, something that would be difficult to communicate through archival footage alone, bringing coherence to major operations as well as smaller frontline engagements.
This was a rewarding collaboration with What’s Not To Like Productions, and a chance to contribute to a beautifully crafted documentary exploring a subject rich in detail, nuance and human stories.
Credits
Client
Agency
Directed
Animation and Motion Design
WW2 Headquarters
Alt Animation
The Little Wild Ones
Kevin Francis
