Brand Films: Emotive Purpose-Driven Storytelling

Greg Viljoen
3 min readAug 28, 2024

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In today’s digital age, brand films are a pivotal tool for purpose-led brands and companies. These films are not just about marketing products or services; they are about telling a story that resonates with the audience on a deeper level.

For purpose-driven brands, the significance of these films cannot be overstated.

Here’s why they are essential and why you, as a brand, should invest in video content for social media.

The Power of Storytelling

At Bigger Than Me, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling. Authentic and real stories have the unique ability to connect people through empathy and shared human experiences. When a brand shares a genuine story, it does more than just communicate a message — it creates a bond. This bond is particularly crucial for social impact initiatives where the goal is not just awareness but also engagement and action.

Why Brand Films Matter

  1. Emotional Connection: Brand films allow companies to showcase their mission, values, and the impact they are making in a way that text and images cannot. They evoke emotions and create a lasting impression on the audience. This emotional connection is what drives consumer loyalty and advocacy.
  2. Authenticity: In an era where consumers are increasingly sceptical of traditional advertising, authenticity is key. Brand films that feature real people, real stories, and real emotions resonate more with audiences. They provide a transparent view into the brand’s purpose and impact, building trust and credibility.
  3. Engagement: Video content is highly engaging. It is more likely to be shared, commented on, and liked compared to other types of content. This increased engagement helps to amplify the reach of the brand’s message, creating a ripple effect that can lead to greater awareness and support.
  4. Showcasing Impact: For purpose-led brands, it is crucial to show the tangible impact of their initiatives. Brand films provide a dynamic and compelling way to highlight success stories, challenges, and the journey towards achieving their goals. This transparency not only informs but also inspires and motivates the audience to become part of the change.

Why Your Brand Needs Video on Social Media

  1. Visibility and Reach: Social media platforms prioritize video content, making it more likely to appear in users’ feeds. By leveraging video, brands can increase their visibility and reach a wider audience.
  2. Versatility: Video content is versatile and can be repurposed across various platforms, from Instagram and Facebook to YouTube and LinkedIn. This versatility allows brands to maximise their content’s impact and reach diverse audience segments.
  3. Engagement Metrics: Videos often generate higher engagement metrics such as likes, shares, and comments. These metrics are crucial for understanding audience preferences and improving future content strategies.
  4. Storytelling Opportunities: Social media platforms offer various formats for storytelling through video, including stories, reels, and live streams. These formats provide brands with creative ways to engage their audience and tell their story in an authentic and compelling manner.

At Bigger Than Me, we have always championed the importance of real, authentic storytelling. Our recent documentary work in downtown Johannesburg, Prolecon mine dumps, Kagiso, and Marikana is a testament to this.

The focus on transitional justice and the powerful stories of individuals who have contributed significantly to South Africa’s young democracy highlights the profound impact that storytelling can have. These stories are not just about the past; they are about shaping the future and inspiring others to continue the fight for justice and equality.

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Greg Viljoen

Father, Surfer, Muso, Producer, Content Creator & Strategy Ninja, Founder @biggerthanmeZA, Husband to @robyn_on_earth - Kommetjie, CT