Why Great Key Art Still Matters in the Streaming Era

Even in a thumbnail world, iconic posters still shape how stories are seen.

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date

29.05.2025

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Ali Ager

We believe in pushing the boundaries of design, storytelling, and innovation to create brands that not only look stunning but also leave a positive impact on the world. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our latest project - a groundbreaking initiative that redefines sustainable branding from the ground up.

Streaming hasn’t killed the movie poster. It’s made it more important

With theatrical runs shortened - or skipped entirely - films now live or die by their digital presence. And often, the first impression? A single square image on a crowded homepage. That’s your poster. That’s your pitch.

The shift from cinema walls to scroll feeds

We used to stand in front of posters at the cinema. Now we scroll past them on Netflix. But the principle is the same: make someone feel something, instantly. Key art isn’t dead - it’s evolved.

What great key art does in the streaming age:

Grabs attention in less than a second

  • Communicates genre and tone instantly

  • Builds brand equity for franchises and talent

  • Creates viral potential for fan sharing

A thumbnail isn’t an excuse to do less - it’s a challenge to do more.

Designing for digital doesn’t mean stripping things back. It means designing smarter: bolder typography, stronger contrast, and a central image that translates at every size.

What we do at The Paperview

We treat each project as an opportunity to build a visual identity that lasts - whether it’s viewed on a billboard or a phone screen. We understand the balance of aesthetics and marketing. We make sure your film stands out, not just shows up.

Key art still matters. More than ever.