Creative Brief

BBC Studios’ documentary team contacted Little Shadow to help build on the visual identity for one of the episodes of the critically acclaimed series, Life and Death Row, which is now in its fourth series. This particular episode focused on a single murder investigation and incorporated podcast-style audio recordings as a narrative thread. The graphics needed to do two things: clarify complex legal and emotional developments for viewers, and visually support the podcast segments with a subtle, stylised treatment. Our brief was to create a modular, adaptable system that could evolve with the story as the edit developed.

Our Approach

To bring the podcast recordings to life, we created a minimal visual identity using waveform animations, typed captions, and animated overlays that gently echoed the episode’s sombre tone. These moments were designed to be visually consistent but emotionally neutral-supporting the material without sensationalising it.

We also produced a suite of on-screen infographics of case-related social media posts. These were built to be easily revised, enabling the editorial team to iterate freely during post-production.

The Results

Our graphics supported the pacing and clarity of a complex investigation, adding polish and legibility to one of the series’ most intricate episodes. The modular design system allowed for last-minute editorial changes.

It was great to see that the incredibly poignant and powerful “Life and Death Row” has made the Griersons long list for Best Returning doc series. Little Shadow loves being even a small part of this incredible series. 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/b071jy7p/life-and-death-row