For this project, I rebranded the Human Rights Watch Film Festival to create a more contemporary, accessible and emotionally engaging identity. The festival already has a strong sense of credibility and purpose, so my aim was not to change its core values, but to improve how they are communicated visually across different touchpoints.
The concept is built around the idea of ‘Pause’. In the context of the festival, pause becomes more than stopping a film; it is a moment to look closer, reflect, listen and respond. This idea connects directly to the festival experience, where screenings are followed by conversations, Q&As and discussions around human rights issues.
Visually, the identity uses bold condensed typography, a strong orange action colour, and a clear graphic system inspired by the pause symbol. The system is applied across the newspaper programme, tickets, lanyards, screen designs and mobile interface, creating a consistent festival experience. The newspaper format was chosen to reference journalism, reporting and public awareness, while also giving space for film information, imagery and programme details.
Overall, the project aims to make the festival feel serious but not distant, urgent but still human. The rebrand supports HRWFF’s role as a platform for film, dialogue and action, encouraging audiences to pause, engage and see the humanity behind each story.