Introduction to a Testimonial Video 

Testimonial video storytelling was the compelling method we utilized to communicate this inspiring story about a court that refuses to give up on people suffering from drug addition.  Rather than sending people to jail, this court takes a redemptive approach that identifies the underlying reasons people became addicted to drugs. Then, they surround each individual with every type of support and recovery needed. The end result for those that complete the drug court program is that people recover and are restored to their families and the community to be productive members of society. In many cases, their felonies are expunged. To tell this compelling narrative in a genuine and authentic manner,  a testimonial video storytelling approach was deemed best.

Discovery for the Drug Court’s Testimonial Video StoryTelling

There were so many people involved in this drug court’s testimonial video storytelling, from a deeply compassionate Judge, to defense attorneys, prosecutors, probation, numerous recovery services, members of the court and of course the people who face a drug felony in court. In order to fully understand this complexed and nuanced story, we began with a series of discovery meeting with Judge, Nicole Sanders and the director of the program. Once we had a handle on how the court system worked, we conduct discovery interviews with each member of the court and an individual who successfully completed the program.

All of these interviews were recorded, transcribed and converted into key talking points for each member of the court. From these talking points, an initial script was written, with an attempt to maintain the natural manner in which each individual authentically communicates. We submitted the original script to the judge and director for additional edits and then locked the script.

Site Scouting for Drug Court’s Testimonial Video Storytelling

After the first in-person discovery with the Judge and director, we conducted our initial site scout of the court and additional b-roll storytelling locations. Once the entire discovery sessions are completed and the script approved, we conduct a second and thorough site scout in order to create a storyboard, a shot list and a filming schedule. It is crucially important to Barking Squirrel Media and our clients, that there are no surprise on set or in postproduction. Communication at every step along the way with numerous opportunities for feedback is how we make every video project easy and seamless.

Production & Post Production for Drug Court’s Testimonial Video Storytelling

This production required 3 full film days with a crew including producer, director, creative director, assistant director, gaffer, audio and grip. All the locations with either inside the Hamilton County Court Building or outdoor locations nearby. Editing required 10 days.n arrative