Date of Award
8-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Department
Digital Production Arts
Committee Chair/Advisor
Eric Patterson
Committee Member
Anthony Summey
Committee Member
Anthony Penna
Abstract
“The Black Hair” is a creative project that explores the convergence of cinematic adaptation, dramaturgical research, and animation design in retelling a traditional Japanese short folktale from the Heian Era. Rooted in the practice of theatrical dramaturgy, this thesis advocates for a research-driven creative pipeline by developing a culturally respectful and historically grounded approach to developing cinematic storyboards. By thoroughly examining the chronicles of history and the sociocultural context, the project seeks to foster deeper cultural appreciation while reintroducing a lesser-known narrative to modern audiences through a visual medium. The project draws stylistic and narrative inspiration from iconic Japanese filmmakers such as Akira Kurosawa (Throne of Blood, Seven Samurai, Yojimbo), as well as the psychological depth and aesthetic sensibilities found in classic J-Horror cinema (Ringu, Ju-On: The Grudge). Addition-ally, the visual direction is informed by manga artists such as Kazuo Umezu (Reptilia), Goseki Kojima (Lone Wolf and Cub), and Junji Ito (Uzumaki ), whose works embody a fusion of historical and horror-based story-telling. Through this multidisciplinary process, ”The Black Hair” serves not only as a visual adaptation but also as a study in how dramaturgical research can inform animation design with authenticity and innovation within a cinematic setting. The work navigates challenges inherent in translating historical narratives into contemporary media while remaining committed to cultural integrity.
Recommended Citation
Walker, Delaney L., "The Uses of Dramaturgical Research In Cinematic Storytelling, Asset Design, and Adaptation in Animation" (2025). All Theses. 4609.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_theses/4609
Included in
Asian Studies Commons, Buddhist Studies Commons, Dramatic Literature, Criticism and Theory Commons, Fiction Commons, Film Production Commons, Fine Arts Commons, Illustration Commons, Interdisciplinary Arts and Media Commons, Japanese Studies Commons, Other Film and Media Studies Commons, Other Theatre and Performance Studies Commons, Visual Studies Commons