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In the long history of the development of Japanese animation, the previous production process focused on “celluloid” plastic sheets, which were magical tools for completing anime works. However, with the advent of the digital age and the popularization of computer technology, many production processes have been simplified.
In this technological revolution, the charming beauty of the celluloid era and some of its classic visual presentation techniques gradually disappeared.
In recent discussions, many Japanese netizens have mentioned a dazzling effect that was once popular in traditional animation but has now almost disappeared.
This effect is usually used to depict summer sunshine, such as reflections from the sea or bright light outside the window, which can make the audience feel a unique seasonal atmosphere.
In the past, such visual inspirations could often be seen in animated works, such as the reflection of the sea in “Slam Dunk” and the sunlight outside the window in “Crayon Shin chan: Dynamic Superman vs. High slit Demon King”.
Especially in works before the 2000s, this dazzling expression technique was not uncommon. Some people particularly like a scene in “Top Speed Patrol” where the foreground characters are painted black, creating a strong contrast between light and dark.
This method achieves extraordinary visual effects by illuminating the stacked celluloid film.
However, although animations in the digital age can generate similar effects through computers, they cannot compare to the shock brought by real physical lighting.
Netizens are nostalgic for the classic examples from the era of celluloid.
When I read this article, I immediately associate it with Leo’s nostalgic scene. The beautiful scenery contrasts strongly with his heavy heart at the time, making me feel sad and bitter even though I really like this scene
Excellent visual techniques such as those in the movie “Crayon Shin chan” that utilize light source backgrounds
Or the exaggerated image in the OVA of “Ninja Dragon Sword Chronicles” where the contours of the characters’ heads are blurred due to strong light.
If modern works want to create contrast, they use the method of darkening the characters in the picture.
Although dazzling expressions have almost disappeared, its connection with the animation art of the celluloid era remains profound, representing a generation’s infinite nostalgia and memories of past works.
This classic technique has made a generation of audiences enjoy the charm of animation in a distinctive form. Today’s animation producers may be able to draw inspiration from traditional media and essence of classic art in looking back on this history.