Anime has a unique ability to reflect the passions and hobbies of its creators, often serving as a lens into various industries. Among the standout genres are those centered on the art of animation itself. Two notable titles—Shirobako (2014) and Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! (2020)—offer distinct yet complementary perspectives on the animation process, showcasing the enthusiasm that both creators and fans share for this vibrant medium.
Shirobako, produced by P.A.WORKS, follows the journey of Aoi Miyamori, a production assistant at Musashino Animation. This series explores the professional challenges and realities of the anime industry as Aoi and her friends, who once dreamed of creating their own anime during their high school years, navigate the complexities of production. Ema Yasuhara is now an animator, Shizuka Sakaki a voice actress, Misa Tōdō a 3D graphics artist, and Midori Imai a writer. Together, they tackle the hurdles of adapting a manga into an anime while also working on original projects.
Though Shirobako originated as an anime series that aired for 24 episodes from October 2014 to March 2015, it was later adapted into a manga released by ASCII Media Works. The show was directed by Tsutomu Mizushima, with scripts crafted by Michiko Yokote, Reiko Yoshida, and Tatsuhiko Urahata. The cast features Juri Kimura as Aoi, alongside Haruka Yoshimura, Asami Takano, Haruka Chisuga, and Hitomi Ōwada. A film continuation of the series premiered in February 2020, further expanding on Aoi’s story four years after the anime concluded.
In contrast, Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! presents a more youthful and exuberant approach to animation. Based on the manga by Sumito Ōwara, the series revolves around Midori Asakusa, a first-year high school student whose passion for animation leads her to form a club with her friends, Sayaka Kanamori and Tsubame Mizusaki. Sayaka, a savvy strategist, recognizes Midori’s untapped potential and encourages her to pursue a career in animation, while Tsubame faces parental restrictions that prevent her from joining the anime club.
Directed by Masaaki Yuasa at Science SARU, Eizouken aired for 12 episodes from January to March 2020 and is noted for its vibrant animation and infectious energy. The series is celebrated for its catchy opening theme, “Easy Breezy,” performed by chelmico, and its heartfelt homage to the animation craft. Sairi Itō, Mutsumi Tamura, and Misato Matsuoka lead the voice cast, bringing to life the characters’ creative ambitions.
Contrasting Perspectives on Animation
While both Shirobako and Eizouken explore the love for animation, they do so from different angles. Shirobako adopts a more realistic tone, illustrating the professional challenges faced by those in the animation industry. Aoi’s journey captures the complexities and disillusionments that often accompany the pursuit of one’s dreams in adulthood.
On the other hand, Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! thrives on the youthful exuberance of its protagonists, emphasizing creativity, collaboration, and the sheer joy of making art. The series highlights the boundless potential of animation as a medium, encouraging viewers to appreciate the imaginative process behind creating animated stories.
Ultimately, both series offer valuable insights into the world of animation. Shirobako provides a grounded look at the industry’s intricacies, while Eizouken celebrates the limitless possibilities of creativity and imagination. Whether one is a casual viewer or aspiring animator, both titles serve as commendable representations of the art form, inviting audiences to dive deeper into the enchanting world of anime.
Related Topics
Are Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Confirmed?
What Is The First Devil Fruit In One Piece?