COMPOSING GENIUS: ARETHA

Scripting | Editing | Motion Design

The Challenge
National Geographic’s Genius series highlights savants spanning various eras, disciplines, and cultural backgrounds. In its third season, Genius takes on the life and legacy of Aretha Franklin — the first American, Black woman, and musical genius of the series.

National Geographic approached Pop’N to develop a social-first series amplifying the voices of the Black creatives behind-the-scenes, and their unique perspectives on Aretha Franklin’s genius.

The Approach
Throughout March 2021, Pop’N worked with National Geographic to develop a short-form BTS series. Each video tackled a different aspect of the Genius: Aretha series and the components that helped bring Aretha’s story to life.

The Pop’N team provided scripting support, sourced footage, assets and music. We also provided full editing support to develop pieces with that spoke to the genius behind-the-scenes and on the screen. It highlighted how Aretha inspired artists across disciplines, while truly shaping the culture.

The Results
The (6) BTS pieces aired on the National Geographic social and on-air platforms on premiere night. The spots delivered 211,626 organic video views across social.