Designing a Vintage-Inspired Film Poster for an Animated Spider-Man Fan Film
As a graphic designer, I love when I get the opportunity to merge my design skills with my passion for film. Recently, I’ve had the chance to be part of an exciting film production by Another Stab Entertainment, where they’re creating an animated fan film inspired by the Sam Raimi Spider-Man franchise. My role? Bringing the world of the animation to life through film posters and background signage that will be embedded into the film’s environment.
Bringing Marvel to Life with Graphic Design
One of the exciting aspects of this project is designing film posters that exist within the animated world itself. It’s a small but crucial detail that enhances the authenticity and immersion of the animation. For one of these posters, the director requested a design featuring Steven Grant, better known as Moon Knight—a beloved Marvel character. Given the rich history and aesthetic of Moon Knight, I knew I wanted to approach this design in a way that felt both cinematic and timeless.
The Inspiration: 1940s Hollywood
Rather than creating a modern superhero-style poster, I took a vintage approach, drawing inspiration from classic 1940s cinema. Iconic films like Casablanca and Lawrence of Arabia influenced the overall design, capturing the grandeur and mystique of that era. This meant dramatic lighting, hand-painted textures, bold typography, and a layout reminiscent of Golden Age Hollywood posters.
By integrating this retro aesthetic, I aimed to make the poster feel like a piece of pop culture from an alternate timeline—where Steven Grant, A.K.A. Moon Knight, was a Golden Age Hollywood actor of the 1940s.
Easter Eggs for Marvel Fans
No Marvel project would be complete without hidden details for the most dedicated fans to discover. Within the poster’s credits section, I included several Easter eggs that reference characters throughout the Marvel universe. These subtle nods serve as a fun way for viewers to engage more deeply with the world we’re creating, rewarding those who take a closer look at the finer details.
The Power of Thoughtful Background Design
Background elements like posters and signage may seem minor, but they play a crucial role in world-building. In any film—animated or live-action—these details add authenticity, atmosphere, and storytelling depth. By designing posters that look like they belong in this universe, I’m helping to create an environment that feels lived-in and rich with history.
Follow Along for More Design Updates!
This project is still in progress, and I’m excited to share more of my work as it develops. If you’re a fan of Marvel, Spider-Man, Moon Knight, or design in film, make sure to follow @designersaylor on Instagram for behind-the-scenes looks at my latest designs and creative projects!
I love collaborating on creative projects like this, so if you're looking for a designer to help build a strong visual identity for your brand, film, or business, feel free to reach out!
