Animation Case Study

Holocaust Memorial Day Films 2008

Communication and Debate

The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT) is a national charity formed in 2005. Its vision is that the Holocaust and subsequent genocides are known, that victims are commemorated and the lessons learnt translated into positive contemporary action in Britain.

Knifedge created ten films for Holocaust Memorial Day, to be sent out to schools and community centres across the country and used as part of a day of discussion and remembrance. By making a series of short pieces, we were able to cover a great deal of ground, not only in respect of debate surrounding the genocide of the Second World War but also more contemporary hate crime and recent genocides such as that which occurred in Rwanda.

HMDT's remit is both bold and challenging, the sensitivity of the subject matter meaning that Knifedge had to work extremely closely with HMDT in order to manage the public perception of the pieces. Clearance of words and pictures used in the piece had to be carefully vetted. Knifedge with HMDT’s help sought permission from Buckingham Palace, British Library, Imperial War Museum and various other representative charities to ensure that stake holders and community groups sensitive to the issues raised were comfortable with the films.

Knifedge is very proud to be associated with Holocaust Memorial Day.