Concept Summary

I want my animation to explore the hidden word of the dairy industry, and the impact of dairy consumption on Cows and the environment, if possible. The aim is to gently challenge the viewer’s perception of dairy as a “natural” product by introducing an emotional aspect that I feel is often missing from people’s timeline’s when they purchase packeted items from the supermarket. I want it to be simple but impactful.

Drafts.

  1. “The cost true cost of a glass of milk”
first animation idea/storyboard draft.

This was my first draft, I like the idea but I think for 30 seconds it was too complex and also slightly literal – it may cause feelings of guilt which I want to avoid.

2) “The hidden cost of milk.”

Second animation idea/storyboard draft.

I think this idea with the happy cow on a milk carton, then with the contrast of how dairy cows are actually treated is a good starting point it just need refining slightly, to have a softer tone.

3) “What really goes into your coffee”

Third animation idea/storyboard draft.

This idea, I decided is far too literal, and could be distressing to see such literal imagery for somebody who was unaware of the dairy process – it could stop them from doing further research.

4) “A Carton’s Change”

Fourth animation idea/storyboard draft.

I am happier with this concept, as I feel it is softer and the tone makes it more accessible to a wider audience. I will use colour theory throughout to help me convey the mood of each scene, and I hope it includes an achievable amount of animation given I am a novice.

I also think having the focus on a Milk carton – as apposed to the horrific experience of a cow makes it more palatable for a wider audience.

This animation is designed for curious but uninformed young adults (ages 16–30) who may be open to veganism but unaware of dairy’s ethical impact. The goal isn’t to guilt the viewer, but to gently guide them toward awareness and plant-based alternatives through emotional storytelling and clear visual language.

Final Story Board.

My animation “A Kinder Pour” uses a symbolic milk carton to explore the hidden impact of the dairy industry. Through simple visuals and text, it reveals the emotional cost of milk production and ends on a hopeful note, encouraging viewers to consider kinder, plant-based alternatives.

Character Development.

Milk carton first sketches.
Mother cow sketches (very sad)
First Draft of Vector cow using illustrator.
Second Draft cow Vector
Happy Cow for Cow Label
Dairy Carton “happy” milk.
Milk Carton before transition.
Happy Oat Milk
Mother and Baby cow.
Sun and Rainbow assets

Due to my beginner-level skills in on Adobe Animate, I’ve planned the animation to be technically achievable. I’ll be using flat vector designs with limited character movement – mostly arm/leg movements for the milk and facial expressions for the cow. I have also decided to use text screens throughout to pace the story, reinforce animation themes and reduce the need for complex visuals. Symbolism plays a key role (e.g., a thought bubble showing a sad calf) to evoke empathy without being graphic.

I will alter my characters throughout to add different emotions.