The nominees for the 97th Academy Awards are out, and yet again, anime films are overlooked in the Best Animated Feature category. As an anime enthusiast, this recurring snub is frustrating, particularly following last year’s triumph with Studio Ghibli’s The Boy and the Heron winning the award.
It’s disheartening to see exceptional films like Ghost Cat Anzu and Studio Durian’s Look Back go unrecognized, but for me personally, the oversight of Naoko Yamada’s The Colors Within for the 97th Academy Awards is the most significant injustice in the Best Animated Feature category. The film has just made its Western theatrical debut, yet those fortunate enough to experience it can surely understand my disappointment.
The Colors Within: A Visual Masterpiece
A Closer Look at the Visuals
The Colors Within captivates right from the start with its stunning visuals. Unlike the surreal animation often seen in Science Saru productions, this film showcases an exceptional fluidity in its animation, especially during key musical moments. Every frame is carefully constructed to enhance the emotional resonance of each scene, making it a brilliant showcase of animated artistry.
The film’s art direction further elevates its visual appeal. Each character is meticulously designed, and their expressive movements align perfectly with the vibrant color palette that defines the film. This commitment to exceptional visual storytelling demonstrates that The Colors Within ranks among Science Saru’s most remarkable achievements, and viewing it in theaters was an unparalleled experience.
A significant contributor to this visual excellence is director Naoko Yamada, renowned for her influential work at Kyoto Animation, including K-On! and A Silent Voice. Her wealth of experience shines through in The Colors Within, reflecting her dedication to creating stunning animation, which makes its absence at the Oscars all the more disheartening.
The Colors Within: A Soundtrack to Cherish
Musical Heartbeat of the Film
The soundtrack, composed by Kensuke Ushio of Devilman Crybaby and Dandadan, complements the visual feast of The Colors Within beautifully. It captures the emotional range of the film’s scenes, enhancing moments of joy and sorrow alike. While it’s not the most flamboyant score, its subtlety aligns perfectly with the film’s grounded narrative.
The music shines brightest during the band performances, pivotal to the plot, revolving around Totsuko, Kimi, and Rui’s band formation. Each note played in these scenes, whether in casual jams or formal shows, is mesmerizing. The innovative use of instruments like the theremin and Kylie McNeill’s captivating vocals as Kimi significantly enrich the musical experience, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
The Power of Simple Writing
Simplicity in Depth
Apart from its stunning visuals and enchanting soundtrack, the hallmark of The Colors Within is its engaging writing. The central trio of Totsuko, Kimi, and Rui are richly developed characters who navigate personal challenges with grace. Their dynamics are balanced, providing both depth and levity without veering into overly dramatic territory.
This narrative approach allows for nuanced character arcs without making them seem overly burdensome or dramatic. The film effectively highlights the subtleties of challenges like leaving school or pursuing a passion, demonstrating that not every journey needs to be fraught with tension.
One delightful surprise is The Colors Within‘s thoughtful incorporation of Christian themes. Rather than sensationalizing spirituality, it becomes a vehicle educating viewers on honesty and self-confidence. This unexpected yet well-integrated element enriches the film’s messages, providing an uplifting experience.
The brilliance of the film’s writing is attributed to head writer Reiko Yoshida, a seasoned scribe in the anime field, known for her work in acclaimed series like Digimon and Violet Evergarden. Her collaboration with Naoko Yamada, particularly on K-On! and A Silent Voice, results in a beautifully crafted narrative that deserves more recognition.
Why Was The Colors Within Snubbed At The Academy Awards?
Unpacking the Snub
Given the exceptional qualities of The Colors Within, the lack of Academy Award recognition is perplexing. While the film’s late release in Western theaters in January played a role, the reality remains that only widely popular works from major studios tend to be acknowledged by Oscar voters. Unless an anime film is crafted by Studio Ghibli, it often struggles to garner enough attention.
However, accolades are not the sole indicator of a film’s worth. Despite not receiving mainstream recognition, The Colors Within stands tall as one of the finest anime films in recent memory, offering breathtaking visuals, a captivating soundtrack, and a compelling story. For those yet to experience it, diving into this gem should be a top priority.
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