Director Reveals Why Watching Anime Is Better Than Making It

Titled “Look Back,” one of the standout anime films in 2024, narrates the lives of two ambitious manga artists whose paths diverge dramatically. Many fans have probably harbored dreams of creating their own anime since being captivated by this extraordinary medium. However, as suggested by the film’s writer and director, Kiyotaka Oshiyama, it might be more rewarding to appreciate anime rather than attempting to create it ourselves.

As an avid movie enthusiast, I’ve been utterly captivated by the cinematic adaptation of “Look Back,” a masterpiece penned by Tatuski Fujimoto, the genius behind “Chainsaw Man.” Streaming now on Prime Video, this heart-wrenching saga of dreams, camaraderie, and sorrow has left online fans spellbound. Personally, I found myself deeply moved by every frame, but it seems the director’s journey to bring this cherished manga to life was far from easy, as he recently disclosed the grueling process that went into its creation.

Kiyotaka Oshiyama Gets Honest About Directing Look Back

During an interview with Deadline, Kiyotaka Oshiyama unexpectedly opened up about the challenging process of creating and directing “Look Back“. He admitted that as an animator, he would prefer to simply enjoy anime from the audience perspective rather than being involved in its creation. Despite his satisfaction with the final product of “Look Back“, Oshiyama expressed a wish to have been among the viewers watching it instead of being behind the scenes working on it.

Oshiyama added, ‘It’s far more enjoyable to watch anime rather than create it.’ Producing anime involves a lengthy process, and maintaining focus for extended periods is physically taxing. Therefore, I don’t believe it’s something we can dedicate ourselves to for prolonged hours or years at a stretch.

In the end, Kiyotaka Oshiyama expressed that the pressure of producing the film was worth it all. He disclosed that directors, as well as anyone involved in movie or anime creation, never can predict if a project will be successful. “I truly believe the success of a production is a matter of luck,” he clarified. “You can’t pinpoint what factors contribute to it, and I feel fortunate for the recognition I am receiving.

Could Look Back Win an Oscar?

Fervent viewers have hailed “Look Back” as one of the top, if not the absolute best, anime films of 2024. However, its true acclaim lies ahead at the 97th Academy Awards in March. This Thursday (23rd January), we’ll find out who made it to the nominees for the 2025 Oscars, and “Look Back” fans are keeping their hopes high that it will be acknowledged.

As an observer, I noticed that Kiyotaka Oshiyama didn’t delve into the potential awards season prospects of “Look Back.” Instead, he appears to be focusing on his upcoming project. Regarding the details of this new venture, Oshiyama kept mum. However, he did acknowledge that the success of “Look Back” has increased the pressure for his next creation. In his own words, he shared, “I try to keep myself calm about it, but I can’t help but feel a bit anxious if they say something like ‘It’s going to be as successful as Look Back.’ But I strive not to let such thoughts consume me.

Look Back is currently streaming on Prime Video.

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2025-01-21 23:11