Abstract

This article explores how visual storytelling in 2D animation differs between Japanese anime and Western cartoons. It defines basic terminology such as “key-frame” (a major pose in an action), “in-between” (the frames drawn between key-frames), and “visual narrative” (how story is told through images and motion). In Western cartoons the narrative often follows a three-act structure, has a clear protagonist, and uses episodic plots that resolve quickly. For example, research shows Western animations frequently use linear storylines and heroes facing external challenges. (atlantis-press.com) Japanese anime often uses the four-part structure known as kishōtenketsu, features ensemble casts rather than a single hero, and explores themes such as identity, existential questions or communal bonds. (ResearchGate) When you evaluate animation university programs, understanding these differences helps you assess whether a course emphasises anime-type visual narrative or Western-style storytelling.

Keywords: anime, Western cartoons, visual narrative, key-frame, in-between

Animation uses moving images created by showing many individual frames in sequence. A key-frame marks a major pose or moment. The drawings between key-frames are called in-betweens. These drawings define movement and shape how motion feels to the viewer.

In Western cartoons the visual narrative often centers on a single character who undergoes change. According to a 2022 study on computer animation storytelling, Western animations “frequently place greater emphasis on a single central character (protagonist)” and follow storytelling models developed in the West such as Aristotle’s three-act structure. (atlantis-press.com) Episodic plots are common, where each episode or film resolves its conflict. The pace is often fast, with humour, action beats and clear visual cues. For instance, character movements tend to emphasise exaggerated poses and simplified designs to make action readable for broad audiences.

Japanese anime uses a different narrative style in many cases. The same study found that anime may not follow Western three-act patterns. Instead it may use kishōtenketsu, a four-part structure: introduction (ki), development (shō), twist (ten), conclusion (ketsu). (ResearchGate) Anime narratives may focus on ensemble casts, slower pacing, internal emotional change, and world-building rather than simply external conflict. A 2025 comparative study states that anime often “uses nonlinear plots, intricate character arcs, and philosophical or psychological topics.” (ResearchGate)

Visually the two styles also differ. Western cartoons usually prioritise readability of motion and action. Designs are simplified with bold outlines, strong silhouettes, and consistent colour to make animation faster and clear. Japanese anime often uses variable frame rates, touches of limited animation (where only parts move), and uses more visual shorthand such as still frames with moving elements or dramatic key-poses when budget or style requires. Some research points out anime uses “symbolism, exaggerated expressions, and intricate world-building.” (ResearchGate)

For students exploring animation university programs this means you should investigate what kind of visual narrative your preferred program teaches. Does it emphasise Western-style clarity of action and storytelling structure, or does it teach closer to anime styles with emotional pacing, ensemble cast work, and stylised scenes? Make sure you look at alumni work, program descriptions, and whether courses include character design, motion timing, scene layout and pacing across different cultural styles.

You might also try a personal exercise: pick a short scene from a Western cartoon and one from an anime. Identify the key-frames, count how many in-betweens seem used, note the pacing of action, and observe how many major characters appear in the scene. Consider how the scene resolves its visual narrative: does it end with a big action beat (common in Western cartoons) or with mood, reflection or ongoing question (common in some anime)? That exercise gives practical insight into how visual storytelling tools differ.

Understanding visual narrative differences helps you adapt to multiple styles. Whether you prefer a Western-influenced storytelling environment or an anime-influenced one, the fundamentals—key-frames, in-betweens, motion timing, tableau vs continuous motion—are the same. What changes is how those fundamentals are applied: structure, pacing, emotional emphasis, and visual design.