Leviathan marks an exciting new chapter in the realm of anime, as Netflix teams up with Studio Orange, known for their work on Beastars, and Qubic Pictures, producers of Star Wars: Visions. This adaptation takes Scott Westerfeld’s 2009 novel and transforms it into a visually stunning 3D anime, blending steampunk elements with a rich narrative tapestry that aims to captivate both existing fans and newcomers alike.
The creators, including Westerfeld and illustrator Keith Thompson, have heavily influenced the adaptation, ensuring that it evolves beyond a mere translation of the source material. With a focus on deep cultural storytelling, Leviathan also looks to challenge norms within anime adaptations based on Western novels.
1. Why Adapt a Western Novel into Anime?
Justin Leach, CEO of Qubic Pictures, explains that the unique blend of steampunk and biotechnology in Leviathan aligns perfectly with anime’s rich tradition of world-building. The narrative dives into themes of cultural exchange and identity, matching Qubic’s objective of merging Japanese storytelling with Western literature. For Studio Orange, this project showcases its pioneering 3D animation skills, setting the stage for an enthralling visual experience.
2. Collaboration with Original Creators
Both Scott Westerfeld and Keith Thompson were integral to the early stages of production. They provided crucial input on character development and narrative flow, ensuring the adaptation remained true to the novel’s heart. Thompson’s visual references helped in maintaining authenticity while also allowing Studio Orange to flourish creatively.
3. Mastering 3D Animation
Studio Orange is at the forefront of 3D animation, and Leviathan is no exception. The studio expertly balances organic and mechanical designs, creating distinct visual contrasts between the Clanker and Darwinist worlds. Advanced modeling techniques paired with insights from military historians contribute to the authenticity and depth of the animation, enhancing the storytelling experience.
4. Challenges in Bringing the Story to Life
Capturing the expansive scale of the HMS Leviathan and its dramatic encounters posed significant challenges in terms of animation. The team developed new workflows that allowed for dynamic interactions and emotional depth in character performances. This delicate balancing of grand battles against intimate character arcs is a hallmark of their creative process.
5. The Musical Heartbeat of Leviathan
Working with renowned composer Joe Hisaishi added a profound layer to the series. His emotionally charged compositions enhance crucial scenes, while the unique scores crafted by Nobuko Toda and Kazuma Jinnouchi pay homage to his work. Hisaishi’s focus on creating music that feels timeless enhances the characters’ emotional journeys throughout the series.
How does the adaptation handle the relationship between the characters? The evolving dynamic between Sharp and Alek is particularly compelling. From viewing each other as foes to recognizing their shared humanity, this transformation is a central theme, allowing viewers to connect deeply with their journeys.
What are the intentions behind Leviathan? The series aims to inspire empathy and understanding through its youthful characters’ experiences, emphasizing the importance of seeing beyond national identities to find commonalities amidst conflict.
Conclusion
As viewers dive into the world of Leviathan on Netflix, they are encouraged to reflect on its themes of identity and change-making. The project not only celebrates the originality of Westerfeld’s work but also brings it to life in a fresh, vibrant format. As the audience shares their thoughts on this epic adaptation, its success may pave the way for even more adventures in this universe.
For those eager to explore more about the convergence of anime and Western storytelling, be sure to check out Moyens I/O.