The Tracks We Leave

“Our past leaves a mark.”

The Tracks We Leave is a student short film that follows the story of Jerry (Bill Kostel) and Prince (Layton Goos) as they navigate their generational differences. In this snapshot of life, we experience how the power of love, learning, and deep-rooted faith can never truly shatter a strong relationship.

I was asked by the director to help bring this story to life with a main on-end title sequence and credit scroll. The biggest question I had was, “How can I take the nuances of this story and bring them to life with something minimal, cinematic, and thought-provoking?”

I focused on two distinct features: snow and wood.

I wanted the type to fill in and feel designed, yet also feel organic, as if the falling snow were filling in old tracks. Each name, especially on the main cards, took the form of hand lettering, suggesting it could have been etched into wood. For the scroll, a textured wooden backdrop bleeds into view, every person holding a place on that final post where Jerry brought Prince.

I design with intention and purpose. No choice is left without meaning.

The Tracks we Leave is currently on its long awaited festival run! — So many updates and extra tidbits to come.