Clevatess Crew's Dark Fantasy Anime Celebrating Cel Animation
· food
How the ‘Clevatess’ Crew Made a Dark Fantasy Anime Celebrating Cel Animation
The world of anime has long blended tradition and innovation, but recent trends among creators have seen a deliberate attempt to evoke a bygone era. This retro revival is evident in shows like Clevatess, a dark fantasy series that combines offbeat premise with nostalgic visuals.
At Anime Expo, io9 spoke with the team behind Clevatess about their distinctive approach. Director Kiyotaka Taguchi and animation producer Seiichiro Kuriyama revealed that they aimed to create an atmosphere reminiscent of classic cel anime, complete with film grain texture and subtle camera shakiness. This deliberate choice sets Clevatess apart from other modern anime series.
The team’s commitment to this aesthetic is evident in every aspect of the show, from character design to background art. Kuriyama explained that they wanted to create characters with distinct lines and a more hand-drawn feel, rather than relying solely on digital tools. Taguchi echoed this sentiment, noting that they intentionally added grain noise and camera shakiness to give the show a film-like quality.
When asked about their emphasis on retro, Kuriyama suggested that it’s not just a nod to nostalgia, but also a reflection of a broader cultural trend. He referred to the “retro boom” as a desirable aesthetic among younger viewers, who are rediscovering and reinterpreting vintage styles in fashion, music, and film.
This phenomenon speaks to a shift in popular culture, where traditional themes and aesthetics are being revisited and reimagined. In the context of anime, this retro revival raises questions about the role of tradition in storytelling. Clevatess’ use of nostalgic visuals also invites consideration of our collective nostalgia for a bygone era. Are we seeking comfort in familiar themes and aesthetics, or is there something more complex at play?
The show’s blend of dark fantasy and comedy, with its unexpected pairings and tender moments, may be more than just a clever marketing ploy. One aspect that sets Clevatess apart from other anime series is its willingness to experiment with different visual styles. From Alicia’s reanimation sequences to the show’s humorously chaotic moments, the team has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in animation.
This blend of innovation and tradition makes for a unique viewing experience – one that challenges our expectations while still feeling deeply nostalgic. The team behind Clevatess is not alone in embracing this retro trend; other shows have followed suit, incorporating elements of classic anime into their storytelling. However, it’s the care with which Clevatess has been executed that sets it apart.
As we watch Clevatess’ second season unfold on Crunchyroll, one thing is clear: this show has tapped into something deeper than just nostalgia. It’s a reflection of our collective desire for innovation and tradition – two forces that will continue to shape the world of anime for years to come.
The success of shows like Clevatess highlights the potential of nostalgia as a creative tool. By embracing retro aesthetics, creators can evoke emotions and memories that transcend individual perspectives. As we watch this trend continue to evolve, one thing is certain: anime’s commitment to tradition will remain a defining feature of the medium – for better or worse.
The impact of Clevatess’ retro revival on the world of anime is already being felt. Will other creators follow suit, embracing the aesthetic and experimentation that has defined this show? As we continue to watch Clevatess unfold on Crunchyroll, we’re witnessing something special – a convergence of tradition and innovation that will shape the future of anime for years to come.
Clevatess’ unlikely aesthetic is more than just a nostalgic nod; it’s a testament to the enduring power of tradition in storytelling. As creators continue to push boundaries and experiment with new styles, one thing remains certain: the world of anime will always be shaped by its rich history – a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
Reader Views
- PMPat M. · home cook
It's refreshing to see creators like the Clevatess crew embracing traditional techniques and aesthetics in their work. However, I wish they'd also acknowledged the potential drawbacks of this approach. With the increased grain noise and film texture, some scenes can feel overly nostalgic rather than evocative of a bygone era. It's a delicate balance between honoring the past and avoiding retro kitsch. The team should be commended for experimenting with these techniques, but perhaps they could also explore more nuanced ways to incorporate traditional visuals without sacrificing visual clarity.
- CDChef Dani T. · line cook
It's refreshing to see creators like the Clevatess team taking risks with nostalgic visuals, but let's not forget that cel animation isn't just about aesthetic – it's also about technical challenges and costs. Traditional methods require a lot more time and labor, which can be a barrier for shows on tight budgets or relying on international co-production deals. The industry needs to balance its love of retro styles with practical realities, especially when targeting global audiences.
- TKThe Kitchen Desk · editorial
The Clevatess crew's deliberate nod to retro cel animation is refreshing, but let's not overlook the practical implications of their approach. While it may be visually stunning, can this aesthetic truly hold up in a serialized format? The article highlights the team's commitment to hand-drawn characters and film grain texture, but doesn't delve into the production challenges that come with such a distinct visual style. As the industry continues to explore new technologies, it'll be interesting to see how shows like Clevatess balance nostalgia with the demands of ongoing storytelling.