What Exactly Is an Explainer Video?

And Why Everyone from Startups to Universities Could Use One

At Brew Motion, we often talk about how we’re the experts in explainer videos.

And we are.

But let’s pause for a second, because it occurred to us that if you're not us, you might be wondering:

Wait... what exactly is an explainer video?

Fair question.

In a world stuffed with jargon, sizzle reels, and TikToks of talking cats (not that we’re against those), “explainer video” can feel a bit vague. So let’s break it down, plain and simple.

An explainer video is…

…a short, engaging video that explains something, usually what your product, service, or idea does and why it matters.

Think of it like this:

🧠 It Engages - People are compelled to watch as it’s eye-catching.
💡 It Educates - Viewers fully understand the value on offer.
🎯 It Empowers - People are more likely to take action.
🎬 And it does all of that in around 60–90 seconds.

At Brew Motion, we craft explainer videos using animation, because visuals make abstract ideas concrete, and motion grabs attention (the good kind, not the "scroll-past" kind).

Why do explainer videos work so well?

We humans are wired to understand stories, not slides. That’s why explainer videos convert better than plain text or static graphics.

They're powerful because they:

  • Turn confusion into clarity

  • Hook attention within seconds

  • Break down complex info without dumbing it down

  • Build trust by showing, not just telling

And most importantly: they drive action

Explainer videos aren’t just for businesses

Sure, a business trying to increase sales can absolutely benefit from an explainer video.
But they’re not the only ones.

Let’s zoom out for a second.

🏥 Healthcare

Hospitals and clinics use explainer videos to educate patients, demystify treatments, or onboard new staff.
Imagine explaining a new health app, a surgical process, or a care plan—clearly, visually, and calmly. That’s an explainer video doing its thing.

❤️ Charities & Non-Profits

You're changing the world. But to do that, people need to understand your cause—fast.
Explainer videos help you tell stories, mobilise support, and show impact—all while staying true to your mission.

🎓 Universities & Education

Got a new programme, online course, or admissions process? Explain it with a video that’s not only informative, but engaging enough to compete with everything else fighting for attention online.

Take a look at our recent explainer videos

An explainer video is...

…a clear, compelling, bite-sized video that explains what you do and why it matters.
It’s your elevator pitch, sales rep, storyteller, and teacher—all rolled into one animated package.

At Brew Motion, we don’t just make explainer videos.
We make videos that help people understand you, trust you, and take action.

👉 Want to see what one could do for you? Let’s talk.

Because if your audience doesn't get it, they won't buy into it, whether you're selling software, saving lives, or shaping young minds.

Let’s have a zero-commitment chat to see how an explainer video could work for you.

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How Animation Makes Complex Ideas Crystal Clear