As a leading distributor of arthouse films, A24 consistently transforms how we perceive family, other cultures, and growing up. The critically acclaimed TV show “Euphoria” is just one example.
A24 has also revolutionized how we experience stories through their limited-edition companion books and soundtracks. These translate the powerful narratives of their films and shows into beautifully crafted printed materials.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the deluxe soundtrack set for the intense 2016 coming-of-age film “Moonlight.”
Designed by Perron-Roettinger and produced by our good friends at Enpointe, this set surpasses expectations. It’s far more than just another soundtrack release.
From Screen to Page: A New Experience
Let’s begin with the tactile clamshell case – a Mustard Yellow LBS cloth wrap adorned with 2-tone illustrations of the characters, printed in Offset CMYK.
Inside, you’ll find a stunning book with an Ecological Fibers Brillianta cloth spine and back cover, featuring Hot Foil Stamping. The front cover showcases a striking image of the sea, printed CMYK on Sappi McCoy Silk. [PaperSpecs PRO members: Get the Swatchbook!]
Upon opening, you’ll discover a pocket on the inside front cover, holding the 3 LPs with a convenient Die-Cut thumb notch for easy access.
The text “Who is you, Chiron” encapsulates the film’s essence, depicting the main character at three pivotal stages of his life: childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood. This progression is key to understanding the narrative.
A Moving and Clever Presentation
The right-hand section of the book unfolds to reveal three separate parts. The two on the right are Smyth-sewn book blocks with exposed spines, taped into place.
When closed, their covers form an image of the main character’s bare back, highlighting his vulnerability. The Blue hue of this image beautifully complements the vinyl sleeve opposite.
Opening the book blocks side by side, with each opening in opposite directions like gatefolds, reveals the cleverness and emotional impact of the design. The left block unveils a short page titled “I. Little,” with a full-page image of the character as a child behind it. The right block features a similar page labeled “II. Chiron,” with the character as an adolescent peeking out.
Flipping through these two books side by side mirrors the film’s theme: Chiron’s childhood experiences shape who he becomes as a teen and young adult. This print piece arguably deepens the emotional impact by allowing us to view his past and present simultaneously.
Enhancing the Experience Through Print
All these images gain further depth through UV printing on Sappi McCoy Silk using a 250-line screen, resulting in sharper, cleaner visuals.
The Smyth-sewn books lay flat side by side, making the experience even more immersive. Additionally, the set includes translucent vinyl images printed CMYK over Opaque White ink, mimicking the effect of flashbacks in the film.
Throughout the set, beautiful portraits and thumbnail scenes from the movie, along with occasional liner notes and sheet music, remind us that this box set is indeed a tribute to the soundtrack.
The combination of thoughtful design, high production values, and appropriate binding techniques proves that print isn’t just an alternative to film – it enhances our appreciation, allowing us to hold onto the emotions long after the credits roll.
The ‘Moonlight’ Box Set can be ordered directly from A24 here.
