Acro-Silky from DAN DA DAN episode 7
©Yukinobu Tatsu/SHUEISHA, DANDADAN Production Committee
©Yukinobu Tatsu/SHUEISHA, DANDADAN Production Committee
In the seventh episode of the exhilarating series DAN DA DAN, viewers are finally introduced to the intricate motivations behind Acrobatic Silky’s, popularly known as Acro-Silky, deep-rooted obsession with Aira. Fans who are both familiar and newly acquainted with the original manga were undoubtedly eager to uncover how the storyline unfolds and intricately ties together various character arcs.
©Yukinobu Tatsu/SHUEISHA, DANDADAN Production Committee
Shūto Enomoto, a gifted and versatile young animator celebrated for his contributions to notable projects like Heavenly Delusion, INU-OH, and Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!, took on the challenging roles of storyboard and animation director for this particular episode. His initial spark of curiosity towards animation ignited from an early fascination with the art of bringing “images in motion” to life.
Enomoto: During my college years, one of my favorite pastimes was scrutinizing anime frame by frame. I found myself recognizing distinctive animation styles employed by different artists through MAD videos—fan-made compositions combining anime clips and music. That was the pivotal moment when my passion for animation truly emerged. I aimed to become an animator, leading me to apply for a position at GONZO where my journey officially began. In my creative process, I prioritize how everything harmonizes on-screen rather than imposing my personal style.
Since then, Enomoto has carved a name for himself in the animation industry, contributing significantly to various projects under Science SARU, with his journey commencing with the film Ride Your Wave in 2019.
Enomoto: I went through a challenging phase in my career where my passion for animation dimmed. However, around that time, I was fortunate enough to be contacted by Science SARU through GONZO, leading me to work on projects like Ride Your Wave and SUPER SHIRO. I had long admired the works produced by Science SARU, and that opportunity reignited my enthusiasm. It was a joyful experience that invigorated my creative spirit.
Having cultivated his skills, Enomoto significantly contributed to various productions at Science SARU. Notably, in the 2022 film INU-OH, he took charge of a particularly dynamic scene where INU-OH, originally referred to as the “deformed son,” undergoes a transformative moment growing human legs and racing through the town. This striking, anime-original illustration was later selected to adorn the cover of promotional pamphlets for INU-OH.
Episode 7 of DAN DA DAN stands as Enomoto’s debut in storyboarding, where he also took on the dual responsibility of animation director, bringing to life the crucial dynamics between Acro-Silky and Aira. He collaborated with fellow animation director Kōtarō Matsunaga, who had previously worked on an episode for the anime The Price of Smiles, and together, they meticulously crafted episode 7’s captivating narrative.
Enomoto: Acro-Silky’s memory sequence in this particular episode is actually fairly brief in the original manga; however, director Fūga Yamashiro envisioned an expansion of that arc, positioning Acro-Silky as the focal point of the episode. While developing the storyboard, I kept Yamashiro’s compelling ideas at the forefront, though I must admit that some of them posed considerable challenges, casting doubts on whether I could execute them effectively.
©Yukinobu Tatsu/SHUEISHA, DANDADAN Production Committee
Matsunaga: I vividly remember the moment I encountered the shots of Acro-Silky descending the stairs from her perspective; it left me pondering how we would even begin to bring that vision to fruition (wry laugh).
With the ultimate vision in mind, Enomoto utilized Blender to create a 3D layout for the pivotal scene in which Acro-Silky bolts out of her apartment in pursuit of her abducted daughter. He meticulously considered every aspect of Acro-Silky’s hair movement to enhance the storytelling.
Enomoto: My aim was to portray a battle that visually suggests Acro-Silky’s entrapment within her own hair. This thematic depth compelled me to contemplate the dynamics of the confrontation between her, Momo, and Okarun, ensuring it held meaning. Almost every moment of creating episode 7 was spent mapping out storyboards while contemplating which animators were best suited for specific segments.
The episode’s emotional climax undoubtedly revolves around the poignant final scene with Aira, culminating in her heartfelt declaration to Acro-Silky, “I won’t forget. I swear.” The intensity of this emotional exchange resonates powerfully, lingering in the audience’s minds even after the credits roll.
©Yukinobu Tatsu/SHUEISHA, DANDADAN Production Committee
Enomoto: Ever since I began drafting the storyboard, I envisioned asking Kana Itō to illustrate that concluding scene. Her resultant artwork exceeded expectations, requiring no revisions whatsoever. Additionally, the scenes capturing Acro-Silky’s hair attacks executed by Jura, the harrowing hair-pulling scene delicately brought to life by Genta Ishimori, and the delicate cardiac massage rendered by Kana Okutani were all incredibly well executed.
©Yukinobu Tatsu/SHUEISHA, DANDADAN Production Committee
Matsunaga: Enomoto diligently oversaw numerous shots himself. I witnessed the depth of his dedication to making episode 7 an outstanding installment. This experience has been quite enlightening for me as an animation director; collaborating with him has revealed insights I was previously unaware of.
Enomoto: (laughs) While it may be premature to celebrate our efforts since the audience’s reception of episode 7 remains uncertain, I truly hope that both devoted fans of the original manga and newcomers alike find something to relish in the story.
©Yukinobu Tatsu/SHUEISHA, DANDADAN Production Committee
The December issue of Monthly Newtype (Japanese edition only) is now available for purchase, featuring an extensive special on DAN DA DAN! Fans can delve into exclusive interviews with the voice actors and creators, gaining a behind-the-scenes perspective on the series. Additionally, the upcoming Monthly Newtype January issue will present an extended interview with Shūto Enomoto and Kōtarō Matsunaga, offering further insights!
Moreover, don’t miss the chance to join Newtype’s Reddit community for lively discussions and the latest developments!
What were the key motivations behind Acro-Silky’s character development in episode 7 of *DAN DA DAN*?
**Interview with Shūto Enomoto: Insight into DAN DA DAN Episode 7**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Shūto Enomoto! Your work on episode 7 of *DAN DA DAN* has received a lot of praise, particularly regarding the character Acro-Silky. Can you share what inspired you to explore her motivations more deeply in this episode?
**Enomoto:** Thank you for having me! Acro-Silky is such an intriguing character. In the original manga, her memory sequence is quite brief, but director Fūga Yamashiro had a vision to expand on that arc. The aim was to dive deeper into her obsession with Aira, making her the focal point of the episode. By developing the storyboard, I kept Yamashiro’s ideas at the forefront, which helped enrich Acro-Silky’s character and motivations.
**Interviewer:** It’s fascinating to hear about the collaborative process! You also mentioned in your previous work that you’ve faced challenges in your career. How did those experiences shape your approach to this episode?
**Enomoto:** Definitely. I went through a tough period where my passion for animation dimmed. Working with Science SARU on projects like *Ride Your Wave* reignited my enthusiasm. When it came to *DAN DA DAN*, I was determined to put that invigorated energy into creating a cohesive narrative. The challenges I faced taught me the importance of perseverance and collaboration, especially when crafting compelling character dynamics.
**Interviewer:** How did you and Kōtarō Matsunaga work together to achieve the episode’s animation style?
**Enomoto:** Collaborating with Matsunaga was a rewarding experience. We aimed to create a visual language that enhanced the emotional aspects of Acro-Silky’s interactions. For example, we used Blender to design a 3D layout for critical scenes, like when Acro-Silky bolts out of her apartment. Every detail mattered, down to her hair movement, which was symbolic of her struggle and entrapment.
**Interviewer:** There’s certainly a lot of depth to the storytelling. The final scene with Aira is especially emotional. What was your vision for that moment?
**Enomoto:** That moment was crucial! I wanted to evoke a powerful emotional response, hence Aira’s declaration, “I won’t forget. I swear.” This line, laden with significance, really encapsulates the bond between them. It was all about creating an emotional climax that lingers with the audience even after the episode ends. Balancing animation and storytelling was key to achieving that.
**Interviewer:** Your approach is really insightful! As you move forward in your career, what do you hope to achieve next in animation?
**Enomoto:** My ultimate goal is to continually push the boundaries of storytelling through animation. I want to explore more complex narratives and characters, combining both visual artistry and emotional depth. The journey is just beginning, and I’m excited to see where it leads!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Shūto! We look forward to seeing what you create next.
**Enomoto:** Thank you! It was a pleasure to share my insights.