The animation industry in Japan is harsh, but it's filled with passionate people who are willing to bring a variety of interesting stories to viewers. Some of these stories focus on the process of creating anime. Most of the time these works mock the problems of the industry, but do it in a nice and friendly way. We've got five titles that can cast a light on anime production here.
Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken
Three girls in school decided to make their own animation. They all have different skills: one's better with backgrounds, the other is a character designer, and the third one deals with animating all that. The characters deal with all the initial obstacles that those who decide to start pursuing their dreams on a whim usually meet. It's a lighthearted show that covers the specifics of the animation process in a very fun way.
Shirobako
This one is about girls who shared a passion for animation in high school and decided to work in the industry when they grew up. But only two out of five actually succeeded in finding a job, while the others struggled. This story is focused on pursuing one's dreams, working towards the set goal, and finding different ways to succeed — and, sometimes, on defeat, which may happen to anyone.
Animation Runner Kuromi
Reality is different from dreams, and Kuromi knows that: she dreamt of being an animator, spent her life studying the craft, and finally landed a job in Studio Petit — but due to some unfortunate circumstances she has to deal with the management position and not the animator's one. In just two OVAs Kuromi has to battle with the main enemy of all creative jobs: the deadlines.
Girlish Number
Animation is not the only aspect of anime: it's not just a bunch of moving pictures, they have a sound on top of it. Girlish Number talks about the struggles of a voice actress, one who believes in her awesomeness and is frustrated by the lack of attention towards her wonderful persona. This show sometimes gets pretty dark, covering topics of favoritism, greed, and psychological abuse from both the higher-ups and the audience.
It's wrong to say that Paranoia Agent's plot revolves around the animation industry, but it's still a crucial part of this suspense/crime story. Satoshi Kon's unique vision combines striking visuals, deep themes, convoluted mysteries, and distinct humor in a short series that asks some serious questions. Including the ones about the animation industry.
Know the inner workings!
The animation industry in Japan is harsh, but it's filled with passionate people who are willing to bring a variety of interesting stories to viewers. Some of these stories focus on the process of creating anime. Most of the time these works mock the problems of the industry, but do it in a nice and friendly way. We've got five titles that can cast a light on anime production here.
Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken
Three girls in school decided to make their own animation. They all have different skills: one's better with backgrounds, the other is a character designer, and the third one deals with animating all that. The characters deal with all the initial obstacles that those who decide to start pursuing their dreams on a whim usually meet. It's a lighthearted show that covers the specifics of the animation process in a very fun way.
Shirobako
This one is about girls who shared a passion for animation in high school and decided to work in the industry when they grew up. But only two out of five actually succeeded in finding a job, while the others struggled. This story is focused on pursuing one's dreams, working towards the set goal, and finding different ways to succeed — and, sometimes, on defeat, which may happen to anyone.
Animation Runner Kuromi
Reality is different from dreams, and Kuromi knows that: she dreamt of being an animator, spent her life studying the craft, and finally landed a job in Studio Petit — but due to some unfortunate circumstances she has to deal with the management position and not the animator's one. In just two OVAs Kuromi has to battle with the main enemy of all creative jobs: the deadlines.
Girlish Number
Animation is not the only aspect of anime: it's not just a bunch of moving pictures, they have a sound on top of it. Girlish Number talks about the struggles of a voice actress, one who believes in her awesomeness and is frustrated by the lack of attention towards her wonderful persona. This show sometimes gets pretty dark, covering topics of favoritism, greed, and psychological abuse from both the higher-ups and the audience.
It's wrong to say that Paranoia Agent's plot revolves around the animation industry, but it's still a crucial part of this suspense/crime story. Satoshi Kon's unique vision combines striking visuals, deep themes, convoluted mysteries, and distinct humor in a short series that asks some serious questions. Including the ones about the animation industry.