Spy x Family, created byTatsuya Endo, is known for its unique family dynamics and sense of humor amid dramatic and tense moments. However,the series could have taken a much darker turnwithout the series editor, Shihei Lin, who works closely with Endo. The tone ofSpy x Familyis due to a strict rule that Lin gave Endo, preventing the series from taking on a grimmer tone.
BeforeSpy x Family, Endo was known for his other works, such as his first serializationTista,and hisone-shotRengoku no Ashe. These works are muchmore somber and gritty in comparison toSpy x Familyand explore themes of revenge, loss, and the dark side of humanity.Tista, for example, follows a young girl who works as an assassin for a religious extremist group, andRengoku no Ashefollows a young girl accused of being a witch.
Endo’s Past Works Are Much Darker Compared to Spy x Family
Tista and Rengoku no Ashe Reflect a Much Grimmer Tone
Endo’s earlier works explore darker themes, but forSpy x Familythey came up with a unique vision, aiming to create a story that appeals to a broader audience.In an interview, Lin gave Endo one rule.
“I wanted to make Spy x Family a bright and cheerful manga. I remember banning him from drawing anything dark (laughs). Endo-sensei agreed to this.” - Shihei Lin
This decision ultimately led to the series amassing many fans from diverse demographics through its humor and lightheartedness.
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In contrast to these works,Spy x Familytakes on a much lighter approach, focusing on thecomedic irony of the makeshift Forger family. The comedic elements and heartwarming moments are a stark difference from Endo’s usual style of storytelling. Lin’s rule of banning anything dark makesSpy x Familystand out to its audience and creates a fun and engaging experience for fans of all ages.
Spy x Family Balances Dark Themes with a Comedic Atmosphere
The Lighthearted Tone Boosted Spy x Family’sPopularity
Even thoughSpy x Familyhas a lighter tone, it stilldoes not shy away from darker themes entirely. Set during a Cold War-like era, the series deals with themes of espionage, the aftermath of war, experimentation, and the threat of international conflict. These underlying themes often drive the story, but Endomasterfully balances it with humor and warmth.
This blend played a significant role inSpy x Family’s popularity, becoming a hit in Japan and internationally. The decision to keep the tone and story away from anything too dark resulted in the series captivating massive audiences. The widespread acclaim for the seriesproves that Lin made a good callwhen he banned Endo from creating anything too dark inSpy x Family.
Spy x Family
Cast
Created by Tatsuya Endo, Spy X Family is an action-adventure comedy anime that follows the misadventures of a found family with unique quirks. The story follows spy Twilight (known as Loid Forger), who, while on assignment, builds a fake family to get closer to his target. Unbeknownst to him, his new family carries their quirks. His wife, Yor, is a kind but deadly assassin, while his daughter, Anya, has telepathic powers - and is the only one who knows their secrets.
