Unveiling the World of "Leviathan": An Exclusive Interview with Director Christophe Ferreira
As the anime landscape continues to flourish, one title that has captured attention is Netflix’s exclusive series "Leviathan." With its remarkable 3DCG animation crafted by the talented Studio Orange, this adaptation of Scott Westerfeld’s acclaimed trilogy offers a fresh take on storytelling. In a significant collaboration between Qubic Pictures and Studio Orange, "Leviathan" marks the directorial debut of Christophe Ferreira. In this article, we delve into an insightful interview with Ferreira, exploring the creative journey behind the series, the challenges faced, and the artistic choices made during production.
A Warm Reception and Initial Involvement
When asked about the audience’s reaction to "Leviathan," Ferreira shared his gratitude for the largely positive feedback. "I’m pleased that the reception has been mostly favorable," he remarked. The director’s journey into this project was rather serendipitous. Initially, Ferreira was set to contribute solely to the design aspects of the anime. However, circumstances shifted when he volunteered to take on the director’s role. "I got lucky," he explained. "There wasn’t much negotiation involved—I stepped up."
Collaborating Across Borders
One of the standout features of "Leviathan" is the diverse talent behind it. With a team comprised of individuals from different countries, Ferreira was enthusiastic about the collaborative environment. "Working with a globally spread team wasn’t particularly difficult," he noted. The advancements in technology enabled seamless communication, allowing him to work with the Studio Orange team when necessary while also managing tasks from home. The internet has undoubtedly transformed the dynamics of collaboration in the animation industry.
Crafting the Narrative
Transforming the story of three novels into a twelve-episode series is no small feat. Before Yuichiro Kido joined the project, Ferreira and Alex Alice developed a series bible after thoroughly analyzing the source material. "We understood from the outset that we had only twelve episodes to encapsulate the entire narrative," Ferreira explained. Despite the initial idea of splitting the release into three parts, Netflix ultimately opted for a full release, which allowed the storyline to flow cohesively while maintaining the essence of the original structure.
Visual Exploration and Influences
Ferreira described the visual exploration of "Leviathan" as one of the project’s pure joys. He emphasized the significance of concept art and worldbuilding, acknowledging the influence of artist Keith Thompson’s illustrations. While Thompson did not directly participate in pre-production, Ferreira and his team often consulted his design choices. "There wasn’t a specific inspiration we aimed for; rather, the influences naturally emerged from the various artists involved," he said. The result is a rich tapestry that blends elements of steampunk aesthetics and whimsical settings, reminiscent of beloved classics while maintaining originality.
Balancing Tone and Emotion
"Leviathan" is set against the backdrop of World War I, presenting a complex narrative that intertwines heavy themes with elements of fantasy and humor. Ferreira approached this tonal balance with care, as these diverse elements were inherently woven into the source material. "It was a natural process," he stated. The challenge lay in ensuring that each component harmonized, allowing the emotional rhythm of the story to resonate with viewers.
The Challenges of Scale
One of the significant challenges during production was accurately depicting the enormous creatures featured in the series, such as the Leviathan and the Behemoth. Ferreira described the unique difficulties in representing the scale of these beasts, particularly with the Leviathan, which needed to accommodate characters onboard. "We paid close attention to the scale of each element," he explained, mentioning how visual cheats were sometimes necessary to maintain coherence in the animation.
Behind the Scenes Insights
Ferreira revealed an intriguing detail about the production: each episode comprises only 200 to 250 shots, a stark contrast to the typical 400 to 450 found in standard anime episodes. This approach aligns the pacing more closely with that of a feature film, allowing for a richer storytelling experience. "This detail might go unnoticed, but it significantly impacts the rhythm and feel of the series," he explained.
Future Possibilities in the Leviathan Universe
As fans eagerly anticipate the continuation of the "Leviathan" saga, Ferreira expressed curiosity about the potential for future stories. Discussing the prospect of sequels, prequels, or spin-offs, he mentioned that the war is far from over, leaving room for new adventures. "I’d love to explore what happens after the war, especially with ongoing scientific advancements," he said, hinting at the exciting possibilities for the series.
The Musical Touch of Joe Hisaishi
One of the most notable collaborations for "Leviathan" was with the legendary composer Joe Hisaishi, known for his work on Studio Ghibli films. Ferreira shared how they were fortunate to have Hisaishi on board, stating, "From the beginning, Netflix offered us the chance to work with him. I never imagined something like that would be possible." The addition of Hisaishi’s music adds another layer of depth to the series, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the storytelling.
Lessons Learned from Directing
Reflecting on his experience directing "Leviathan," Ferreira noted that the journey has been incredibly enriching. "I’ve learned so much—from managing artists to understanding what mistakes to avoid in terms of staging and the broader picture of a series," he remarked. The four-year journey was filled with valuable lessons that he intends to carry into future projects.
Looking Ahead
As Ferreira contemplates his next steps in the animation realm, he remains uncertain about his future direction. However, he is actively working on a trilogy of graphic novels that he is writing himself. This venture signifies a new chapter in his creative journey, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
In conclusion, "Leviathan" stands as a testament to innovative storytelling and artistic collaboration. Through the insights gained from director Christophe Ferreira, we gain a deeper understanding of the creative process behind this captivating series. With its unique blend of themes, stunning visuals, and a talented team, "Leviathan" is poised to leave a lasting impression on audiences, inviting them to explore the expansive world crafted within its narrative. Keep an eye on this series, as it promises to continue captivating viewers with its rich storytelling and stunning animation.
