The director of Look Back, one of 2024’s most acclaimed anime films, has shared surprising insights into the challenges of making the movie. Kiyotaka Oshiyama, the writer and director, admitted in a recent interview that creating anime is a stressful and demanding process—one he might prefer to avoid in the future.
Making Look Back Was No Easy Task
Look Back is based on Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga of the same name. The movie tells a touching story about two aspiring manga artists whose paths diverge, exploring themes of friendship, dreams, and grief. Fans have praised the film for its emotional depth, but Oshiyama revealed that making it was an exhausting experience.
In an interview with Deadline, Oshiyama confessed, “As an animator, I think it’s better to be in the audience just watching anime.” He added, “Making it is a really long production. The fact that you have to sit for so long and maintain your focus is a physically demanding job.”
Despite the hardships, Oshiyama is proud of Look Back and grateful for its success. “I really think the success of a movie is hit or miss,” he said. “I was just lucky, and I am thankful for the praise.”
Awards Buzz for Look Back
With Look Back streaming on Prime Video, fans are speculating about its chances at the 97th Academy Awards. Many have called it the best anime movie of 2024. The Oscar nominations will be announced on January 23, and anime enthusiasts are hopeful that Look Back will make the cut.
Oshiyama did not comment on the film’s awards prospects but hinted at the pressure he feels for his next project. “If they’re like, ‘Oh, it’s going to be a hit just like Look Back,’ then I might stress out a little,” he admitted.
Why Anime Fans Relate to Oshiyama’s Honesty
Oshiyama’s candid remarks about the difficulties of making anime resonate with fans who appreciate the incredible effort behind their favorite films. While Look Back showcases the beauty of storytelling in anime, it also highlights the intense work that creators endure.
As Look Back continues to receive praise, fans eagerly await Oshiyama’s next project—and the possibility of seeing the film recognized at the Oscars.
Look Back is now available for streaming on Prime Video.
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