Bootstrap Myth

Lost Nation Pictures sought to create two animated segments for the documentary Raising The Floor to effectively convey the Bootstrap myth in an engaging and informative way.

The bootstrap myth in America is a concept which suggests that anyone can become successful if they just work hard enough. This concept is often used to criticize the notion of a universal basic income, as it implies that individuals should be able to support themselves without government assistance. People who argue that society would lose its moral center because of UBI are wrong, as UBI doesn’t remove existing incentives to work or to do good. In fact, it may even increase incentives in both cases. Studies have also shown that countries with higher levels of income equality tend to have higher levels of social trust and a stronger sense of shared responsibility and cooperation.

Client → Lost Nation Pictures
Studio → Hi-Lo.cc
Role → Director, Designer, Animator

Final Style Frames

The muted color palette, inspired by the American flag, was chosen in tune with the serious nature of the topic.

Development frames

Programs Around The World

PAW Final Style Frames

Storyboard

The storyboard for this project presented a unique challenge, as it required us to make abstract concepts visually accessible. To illustrate, the concept of bootstrapping - which alludes to social ascension - was depicted by showing the US flag as a ladder, and it was possible to see people climbing the steps of the American society. By the conclusion of the animation, we invited the audience to contemplate whether the society could be disrupted due to an ethical dilemma or overwork of those in the lower echelons of the society.

Final Style Frames

The muted color palette, inspired by the American flag, was chosen in tune with the serious nature of the topic.

Development frames

Programs Around The World

PAW Final Style Frames

Storyboard

The storyboard for this project presented a unique challenge, as it required us to make abstract concepts visually accessible. To illustrate, the concept of bootstrapping - which alludes to social ascension - was depicted by showing the US flag as a ladder, and it is possible to see people climbing the steps of the American society. By the conclusion of the animation, we invited the audience to contemplate whether the society could be disrupted due to an ethical dilemma or overwork of those in the lower echelons of the society.

Credits

Production:
Studio Hi-Lo

Creative Director:
Diego Coutinho and Bruna Imai

Art Director:
Bruna Imai

Design:
Bruna Imai

Animation:
Diego Coutinho