The Disease Handbook “How to Infect”
Concept
A rewarding opportunity to blend humor, artistry, and public health messaging, IPHCA's The Disease Handbook: How to Infect follows a Covid-like cartoon germ character as he hunts for student victims on a college campus. We developed a germ character that struck the perfect balance between cute and repulsive—charming enough to captivate the audience but gross enough to underscore the importance of vaccination.
Tone
Drawing inspiration from 1920s "rubber hose" animation, we leaned into its whimsical, exaggerated style to make the character and the narrative visually striking and accessible. The fluid movements and vintage aesthetic added a nostalgic charm, while the humor and expressiveness of the animation kept the tone light and engaging.
Message
The piece was designed to resonate with college students, combining humor with a clear call to action. It was deeply satisfying to craft a PSA that was not only entertaining but also served a vital purpose in raising awareness about vaccinations. This project showcased the power of animation to communicate important messages in a way that sticks with the audience.
Director
Shawn Spear
Creative Team
Greg Akouris
Sophia Caravella
Steve Knapp