The anime Wandance, which premiered this year, is based on Coffee’s 2019 manga. It was created through a partnership between the well-established animation studio Madhouse and the rising studio Cyclone Graphics, who have previously collaborated on projects like Forest of Piano. However, this latest collaboration hasn’t been well-received. Despite high expectations, Wandance has faced criticism for its poor animation quality. The dance sequences, intended to be graceful, appear awkward and jerky because of the unattractive and poorly integrated 3D models.
The anime didn’t live up to expectations, largely because the computer-generated imagery and the mix of 2D and 3D animation didn’t capture the charm of the original manga, disappointing many fans. Though the manga’s artwork remains beautiful, the dynamic dance sequences truly shine in moving pictures – if the adaptation is well-executed. Despite the anime’s shortcomings, a live-action film adaptation has been announced, potentially offering a fresh start for the series. Currently, only the film format has been confirmed, and more details are expected in 2026.
The Wandance Manga Deserves a Better Adaptation
Live-action adaptations of popular series are becoming increasingly successful. Shows like Netflix’s One Piece and the return of 10DANCE are drawing in larger and more diverse audiences. With Wandance focusing on hip-hop, its upcoming live-action version has the potential to gain significant attention as well.
This manga beautifully explores feelings of self-doubt, loneliness, and worry as its main character gradually becomes more confident. The story follows Kaboku Kotani, a new high school student who prefers to blend in, and who stopped watching dance after a difficult experience in middle school. But he’s captivated when he unexpectedly sees Hikari Wanda dancing, and the story weaves together performing arts inspired by hip-hop with compelling characters and a touch of romance.
He’s captivated by Hikari not just because she’s beautiful, but because she seems completely carefree when she dances. He used to be embarrassed about his own lack of rhythm in middle school, but she inspires him to try something he never imagined – pursuing dance. As the story unfolds, he joins the Dance Club, discovering a new passion and developing feelings for Hikari along the way.
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2025-12-27 00:42