Besides the fantastic character designs, there’s something really lovely about the animation of this trailer, which has a intentionally reduced, slightly choppy framerate for the characters as they bounce, fly, and run through the forest. While clearly inspired by stop-motion animation, which was practically done to great effect in contemporary Western titles like Kubo and the Two Strings by Laika, there is also a deeper connection with this animation style that speaks to traditional Eastern watercolor animation. Animation Obsessive has an incredible article about this art style, which was developed in the 50s, lost soon after, and is now being reinvented by Chinese animators, that’s well worth checking out if you’re interested!
Advertisement
“The story of a brave girl caught between two worlds divided is, at its core, not only a very personal story for me, but one that’s become personal for everyone involved including our absolute dream cast,” said Tsutsumi in a press release. “Every one of these incredible talents from our dream list accepted with such passion and empathy for the story, and collaborating with them has been equally humbling and inspiring. They’ve given souls to our characters and unparalleled performances for our animators.”
Oni will be available on Netflix “soon,” according to the streamer.
Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel and Star Wars releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about House of the Dragon and Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.
G/O Media may get a commission
Save $70
Apple AirPods Max
Experience Next-Level Sound
Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking provides theater-like sound that surrounds you
Advertisement