PROJECT
animated main title sequence
STREAMER
Starz
STUDIO
Lionsgate
G-Unit
Atmosphere Entertainment
Shine designed and produced a kaledoscopic main title sequence for Starz’ new series, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan”. Original live action footage shot by Shine was integrated with graphic imagery to create a collage that introduces the world and the characters.
Power Book III: Raising Kanan is a prequel to the hit series Power, centered on the early life of Kanan Stark, a character originally portrayed by 50 Cent. Set in the 1990s in South Jamaica, Queens, the show follows teenage Kanan as he navigates the dangerous world of drugs, crime, and power under the guidance of his mother, Raquel "Raq" Thomas, a fierce and ambitious drug queenpin. The series explores Kanan's transformation from a naïve teenager into the ruthless criminal seen in Power, while depicting the volatile dynamics within his family and the streets.
Set in South Jamaica, Queens, in 1991, the sprawling family drama revolves around the coming-of-age of Kanan Stark (Mekai Curtis) — Ghost and Tommy’s mentor, partner, and adversary, who dies in a hail of gunfire in “Power’s” final season. In the prequel series, Kanan is the 15-year-old only child of Raquel “Raq” Thomas (Patina Miller), a cocaine distributor with an emerging network of dealers around the city. Like its predecessors, “Power” and “Power Book II: Ghost,” “Raising Kanan” explores themes of identity, violence, loyalty, and legacy. It’s also a deep dive into the pathology of family: the nuanced but unique dynamic between parent and child, mother and father, and brother and sister.
"Power Book III: Raising Kanan" delves into the early life of Kanan Stark, a pivotal character from the original "Power" series. Set in 1990s South Jamaica, Queens, the show explores Kanan's journey into the criminal underworld amidst the backdrop of his turbulent family dynamics and burgeoning friendships. As he navigates the streets, Kanan faces moral dilemmas and tough choices that shape his destiny as a ruthless drug lord. The series captures the era's hip-hop culture and socio-economic challenges, providing a gritty and nostalgic portrayal of a character who eventually becomes a formidable force in the "Power" universe.
The Power Universe, stemming from the original series "Power," expands across multiple interconnected narratives exploring crime, power dynamics, and personal redemption. Centered initially on James "Ghost" St. Patrick's dual life as a nightclub owner and drug lord, it evolves into distinct storylines like "Power Book II: Ghost" and "Power Book III: Raising Kanan." Each series delves into different characters' perspectives, from Tariq St. Patrick navigating his father's legacy to Kanan Stark's origins in 1990s Queens. With its intense drama, complex characters, and gritty portrayal of ambition and betrayal, the Power Universe captivates audiences with its intricate exploration of power and its consequences.
South Jamaica, Queens, in "Power Book III: Raising Kanan" is a vibrant and gritty setting that significantly shapes the series' narrative. The neighborhood, with its tough streets and close-knit community, is where young Kanan Stark's story unfolds. Its rich cultural backdrop and historical significance in hip-hop influence the characters and their lifestyles. South Jamaica's struggles with crime and poverty highlight Kanan's challenges and the harsh realities of his environment. The neighborhood's authentic representation adds depth to the story, reflecting Kanan's formative years and the influences that drive him into the complex world of crime and power.
