The Fall 2024 anime season is packed with visually stunning series, but Dan Da Dan stands out not just for its breathtaking animation, but for a subtle, ingenious technique that enhances the viewer’s experience. Created by Science SARU—the studio behind hits like Scott Pilgrim Takes Off and Devilman Crybaby—Dan Da Dan captivates audiences with its bold color transitions, switching between light and neon tones. Episode 2 introduces an unexpected shift to black-and-white, which might seem peculiar at first, but this stylistic choice is rooted in the show’s deeper narrative.
The Flatwood Monster and a Stunning Art Direction
Episode 2 features the arrival of the Flatwood Monster, whose presence causes the screen to turn grayscale during its interaction with protagonist Momo Ayase. The alien’s design, rendered in CGI, further distinguishes it from the hand-drawn characters and background. While CGI in anime often draws criticism for its inability to blend seamlessly with traditional animation, this unique artistic approach is intentional. In a recent interview, Dan Da Dan director Fuga Yamashiro revealed that the contrasting art styles reflect the characters themselves, adding layers to the storytelling.
Aliens vs. Ghosts: A Visual Dichotomy
Dan Da Dan’s animation breaks from conventional shonen anime by assigning distinct visual traits to its supernatural entities. According to Yamashiro, the use of CGI for aliens and hand-drawn animation for ghosts was a deliberate decision to emphasize their differences. Aliens, depicted as cold and inorganic, contrast with the warm, more human-like ghosts. This juxtaposition is mirrored in the color palette assigned to each character.
“When an alien appears, the scene is flushed with cold colors, like blue,” Yamashiro explained. “In contrast, ghosts are represented with warm colors, such as red or orange. This differentiation was designed to reflect their origins—ghosts, being connected to humans, are more relatable, while aliens are meant to feel otherworldly and unsettling.”
This creative decision is especially evident in scenes involving characters like the Serpo aliens, who are bathed in blue hues, while the ghostly Turbo Granny is surrounded by reds and oranges. The interplay of these colors becomes even more dynamic when characters like Okarun, who possesses a mix of spiritual powers, cause the environment to shift between shades of red and blue, signifying the ongoing clash of forces.
Visual Language: From Slice of Life to Supernatural Battles
Dan Da Dan’s genius lies in its ability to seamlessly transition between its various genres, from slice-of-life moments to intense supernatural battles. The shift in color palette plays a crucial role in these transitions. During everyday scenes, the colors remain soft and flat, but once a battle begins, the hues shift to bold, high-contrast shades, enhancing the sense of danger and excitement.
For example, during the battle between Okarun and the Turbo Granny, red light flickers ominously from a phone, foreshadowing the intense confrontation to follow. As soon as the battle ends, the bright colors fade, signaling a return to normalcy. This visual cue allows viewers to easily track the tone of each scene without the need for explicit dialogue or exposition.
Building a Unique Visual Identity
Dan Da Dan’s use of color goes beyond mere aesthetics—it creates a unique visual language that elevates the storytelling. The anime’s vibrant palettes during action scenes are reminiscent of works like Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, but what sets Dan Da Dan apart is how its colors reflect not only the mood of each scene, but the very nature of the characters themselves. This creative approach gives the series a distinct identity, reinforcing its chaotic yet playful tone.
Through its stunning and meticulously planned animation, Dan Da Dan redefines how anime can use color and style to enhance its narrative, making it one of the most innovative and visually captivating shows of the season.
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