The work of Osamu Dezaki has been a big inspiration for me and so many artists. Here is a small article just to share a bit of his work.
Osamu Dezaki was a big inspiration for me when creating the French rapper’s Super Héros clip from Demi Portion.
I have got inspired, especially by the creation of what are called memory postcards. These still images sometimes replace tens of seconds of animation, which is a huge advantage when considering the effort and workforce (time and money) involved in creating Japanese animation shots.
Osamu Dezaki developed this storytelling system for the sake of the economy, but beyond that, he made it into an actual artistic composition.
These little gems of art, sometimes reminiscent of traditional Japanese prints, can express much more than a few seconds of animation. A crucial moment of the narration that is frozen in time.
At around six years old, I discovered these images during lunch breaks that split the day in two.
As a matter of fact, in the 1990s in France, some programs broadcast many Japanese animations from the 70s to the 80s.
Among these programs, I could find some of Osamu Dezaki’s achievements. Obviously, I didn’t know it; many years later, when I did my research, I realized it.
That being said, I still have an ever-present memory of those impactful images that could stay on screen even for several seconds.
So I’m writing this article to share a bit of what attracted me to using this system.
These images are often very graphic and use processes such as superimposing or juxtaposing elements or minimal animation such as a still image with only an animated effect emphasized.
His Visual Storytelling Style
Dezaki co-founded the influential anime studio Madhouse in 1972, where he directed numerous notable works, including Ace wo Nerae! (Aim for the Ace!), The Rose of Versailles, and Space Adventure Cobra. He was known for his unique visual style, which included techniques such as “Postcard Memories,” where scenes would fade into watercolor paintings, and the use of split screens and dramatic lighting effects. His storytelling often emphasized emotional depth and character development, making his works resonate with audiences.
This stylistic approach is characterized by its use of still images that evoke a sense of nostalgia and emotional depth, often resembling the aesthetic of postcards or watercolor paintings. Here’s a deeper look into the concept and its significance in Dezaki’s work:
Concept of Postcard Memories
- Visual Aesthetic:
- The technique involves using beautifully rendered still frames that capture key moments in a story, often accompanied by soft, dreamlike colors. These frames are designed to evoke emotions and memories, much like a postcard that captures a fleeting moment in time.
- The images often feature characters in contemplative poses or significant settings, allowing viewers to absorb the emotional weight of the scene without the distraction of movement.
- Narrative Function:
- Postcard Memories serve as a narrative device that allows for reflection and introspection. By pausing the action and focusing on a single image, Dezaki invites the audience to engage with the characters’ emotions and thoughts more deeply.
- This technique is particularly effective in dramatic moments, where the stillness can amplify the emotional impact of the scene, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a more personal level.
- Integration with Music and Sound:
- Often, these still frames are accompanied by evocative music or voiceovers, enhancing the emotional resonance of the moment. The combination of visual and auditory elements creates a powerful atmosphere that draws viewers into the narrative.
- The use of music in conjunction with Postcard Memories can evoke nostalgia, longing, or reflection, further deepening the viewer’s connection to the story.
Significance in Osamu Dezaki’s Work
- Emotional Depth:
- Dezaki’s use of Postcard Memories is a hallmark of his storytelling style, allowing him to convey complex emotions and themes. This technique is evident in many of his works, including The Rose of Versailles and Ashita no Joe, where character development and emotional arcs are central to the narrative.
- By employing this technique, Dezaki was able to create moments that linger in the viewer’s mind, making the emotional experiences of the characters more relatable and impactful.
- Influence on Anime:
- The Postcard Memories technique has influenced many anime creators and directors, inspiring them to explore similar methods of visual storytelling. It has become a recognizable aspect of Dezaki’s legacy, showcasing how innovative visual techniques can enhance narrative depth in animation.
- This approach has also contributed to the broader evolution of anime as a medium, encouraging creators to experiment with visual styles and storytelling methods that prioritize emotional engagement.
- Cultural Impact:
- The nostalgic quality of Postcard Memories resonates with audiences, making it a powerful tool for storytelling in anime. It taps into universal themes of memory, longing, and reflection, allowing viewers to connect with the characters and their journeys on a deeper level.
- As anime continues to evolve, the influence of Dezaki’s techniques, including Postcard Memories, remains evident in contemporary works that seek to balance visual artistry with emotional storytelling.
Some of his famously notable work
This famous animation director and creator has worked on this notable anime shows/movies (the list is non-exhaustive):
- Some of his most recognized projects include:
- Ashita no Joe (1970-1971): A boxing anime that became a classic.
- The Rose of Versailles (1979-1980): A historical drama set during the French Revolution.
- Space Adventure Cobra (1982): A space opera that showcased his flair for adventure and action.
- Hakugei: Legend of the Moby Dick (1997-1999): An adaptation of Herman Melville’s Moby Dick.
- Dezaki’s influence extended beyond his own works; he inspired many future anime
You can check the full list here on Anime news network.
Osamu Dezaki’s work can greatly influence motion animators or graphic designers working on a budget.
But let us not forget that beyond a budgetary question, this particular storytelling technique via the use of memory postcards is very stylish and can have a lot of impacts if used well.
Osamu Dezaki’s Postcard Memories technique is a testament to his innovative approach to anime direction.
By blending stunning visuals with emotional depth, he created a unique storytelling style that has left a lasting impact on the anime industry.
This technique not only enhances the narrative experience but also invites viewers to engage with the characters and their stories in a profound and meaningful way. Through Postcard Memories, Dezaki has solidified his place as a visionary director whose work continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.
