The winners of the 34th Japan Movie Critics Awards have been announced, with the Best Animated Film honor going to Look Back, a theatrical anime directed by Kiyotaka Oshiyama and based on a story by Tatsuki Fujimoto.
The Japan Movie Critics Awards, presented by filmmakers to fellow filmmakers, recognized Look Back which premiered in June 2024 for its poignant portrayal of two girls united by their shared passion for creating manga.
Alongside Look Back, actors from the live-action adaptations of Let’s Go Karaoke! and Sayuri also received top honors. Jun Saito won Best New Actor (Male) for his role in Let’s Go Karaoke!, while Chikara Motoyama was recognized for his performances in 11 Rebels. Veteran actress Toshie Negishi received the prestigious Golden Glory Award (Haruo Mizuno Award) for her role in Sayuri.
Key Visual:
Look Back won hearts with its touching story that explores themes of friendship, perseverance and art. The work follows the lives of two young artistic talents, Ayumu Fujino and Kyomoto, as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship, artistic career and personal challenges.
STAFF:
Director/Screenplay/Character design: Kiyotaka Oshiyama
Art Director: Yoshi Sameshima
Music: Haruka Nakamura
Animation Production: Studio Durian
Here’s the official synopsis:
Popular, outgoing Fujino is celebrated by her classmates for her funny comics in the class newspaper. One day, her teacher asks her to share the space with Kyomoto, a truant recluse whose beautiful artwork sparks a competitive fervor in Fujino. What starts as jealousy transforms when Fujino realizes their shared passion for drawing.
Based on the acclaimed manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto, the creator of “Chainsaw Man”, Look Back captures the highs and lows of pursuing artistic excellence and the special bonds formed through creative collaboration. The heart-wrenching story is the stunning feature-length directorial debut from Kiyotaka Oshiyama that will leave you in tears and inspire you to chase your own artistic dreams.
Source: Comic Natalie
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