Thescreescore – In a fascinating twist that underscores the increasingly interconnected world of global animation, Disney’s highly anticipated Thanksgiving release, Hexed, openly acknowledges the acclaimed, albeit notoriously violent, anime Chainsaw Man as a significant creative muse. This unexpected revelation, directly from the film’s directorial duo, not only hints at a fresh aesthetic for the studio but also spotlights a burgeoning trend in Western animation’s embrace of Japanese influences.
Set for a November 25, 2026 debut, Hexed introduces audiences to Billie Doe, a young woman who, after years of feeling like an outsider, is transported to the mystical realm of Hexe, where she discovers her inherent magical abilities. Early glimpses, including a teaser trailer, suggest a vibrant and engaging narrative, signaling Disney’s continued commitment to quality storytelling.
The surprising connection to Chainsaw Man emerged during an interview with Hexed directors Fawn Veerasunthorn and Jason Hand, conducted by Cartoon Brew. The filmmakers discussed their deliberate push for a more "cartoonier" visual style in Hexed compared to many contemporary animated features. Hand specifically cited the dynamic visual language of Chainsaw Man as a catalyst for this artistic direction.
Related Post
Veerasunthorn elaborated on their approach to character design, stating, "When you look at Billie, we wanted to evoke the feeling that this girl has the potential to be a witch, but we didn’t want to be too on the nose about it, so we put little clues everywhere." Hand then added a personal anecdote, revealing, "I have a 15-year-old son, and we were watching Chainsaw Man. They do all kinds of crazy things with the eyes that I felt like we could totally do, but in a much subtler way." Both directors emphasized that as an original film, Hexed presented a unique opportunity to "think differently and get cartoonier," pushing boundaries in color, production design, and character proportions.
While the juxtaposition of a family-friendly Disney film with the mature themes of Chainsaw Man might initially raise eyebrows, the creative rationale behind the inspiration becomes clearer upon closer examination. Hexed, though devoid of Chainsaw Man‘s explicit violence and sexuality, appears to immerse Billie in a world teeming with supernatural dangers and formidable adversaries. This narrative framework can be viewed as a child-appropriate interpretation of Chainsaw Man‘s perilous universe.
Crucially, the stylistic parallels extend to tone and visual execution. In line with the directors’ vision for a "cartoonier" aesthetic, Hexed is characterized by its vivid color palette and whimsical, often eccentric character designs, even for its human inhabitants. This vibrant visual style creates an intriguing contrast with the inherent perils of Hexe, perfectly complementing Billie’s chaotic energy as she navigates her newfound powers. Similarly, Chainsaw Man, despite its dark narrative, is celebrated for its stunning color work and a cast of characters whose designs and personalities, particularly Denji’s, are wonderfully eccentric. The successful translation of this aesthetic sensibility to Hexed is a testament to the directors’ innovative approach.
This creative borrowing from Chainsaw Man is more than just a singular instance; it represents a significant marker in the ongoing integration of anime into Western animation. As anime continues its ascent into mainstream pop culture, its influence is increasingly evident across various Western productions. Beyond mere superficial references, shows like KPop Demon Hunters and My Adventures with Superman demonstrate a profound appreciation for anime, structuring their narratives and visual styles accordingly. Even industry titans like Robert Kirkman, creator of Invincible, have openly acknowledged anime’s pivotal role in the modern success of their franchises.
The fact that a major Disney feature is now openly drawing inspiration from an anime as distinct as Chainsaw Man speaks volumes about anime’s growing cultural footprint and its transformative impact on the global animation industry. This development is a welcome sight for animation enthusiasts, signaling a period of unprecedented creative cross-pollination. As Hexed prepares for its release, anticipation builds for how it will honor its unconventional muse and contribute to Disney’s storied legacy.
Article by Joshua Edward Ryan Fox, a freelance writer for Thescreescore.com, with a passion for pop culture. Joshua’s writing has been recognized by Crunchyroll and anime YouTuber Gigguk.
Film Details:
- Release Date: November 25, 2026
- Directors: Jason Hand, Fawn Veerasunthorn
- Producers: Roy Conli, Yvett Merino Flores
- Executive Producer: Jared Bush
- Main Genre: Animation
- Synopsis: Hexed follows Billie, an impulsive teenager whose life is turned upside down after she discovers she possesses hidden magical abilities. Transported from suburbia to the secret realm of Hexe alongside her cautious mother, Alice, Billie uncovers long-buried family secrets while learning that her newfound powers could change the future of the world of witches forever.
Leave a Comment