Additionally, during a feature on the anime “Petals of Reincarnation”, which is currently streaming every Tuesday at 25:30 (1:30 AM) on ABEMA and features Nakamura as a cast member, Nakamura promoted the show, saying: “The motif for Funasaka is Hiroshi Funasaka, a real-life Japanese soldier, and he is depicted as a quiet young man in the series. I want everyone to see his intense battles, where he possesses the power of immortality but takes so much damage that he is reduced to a skeleton.” When a fierce, tear-jerking battle scene—which has been trending on social media as a “tear-jerker”—was introduced, showing Funasaka passing on his immortal talent before dying, Nakamura shouted, “Don't go, Funasaka!” and Iwai, deeply immersed in the moment, also screamed, “Funasaka!” Nakamura reflected, “Funasaka was the first person the protagonist, Toja, ever felt a true friendship with. Because he was able to entrust his power to Toja, I believe he was able to pass on his talent without any regrets.”
In a major announcement during the show, it was revealed for the first time that Tokui will join the cast starting from episode 10 as a new character, “J. Henri.” Tokui promoted her role, saying, “She is a bright and lighthearted girl. Please stay tuned to see how she plays an active part in the story!”
In the “Gyokai Fukabori Connection” (Industry Deep-Dive Connection) segment, which delves into the work and personalities of people in the anime industry, an exclusive interview was conducted with anime critic Ryota Fujitsu, who has been covering the anime industry for nearly 30 years. Fujitsu described his profession: “Just like a mountaineer exploring a route that no one has ever taken, it's fun to discover a path that no one has ever reached before by building up logical arguments.” He then analyzed this season's notable works from his unique perspective. He highly praised “Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk”, saying, “By not employing a chief animation director and letting each episode's animator draw in their own style, the graphical presentation is enhanced. You can feel a strong determination to 'do something edgy.'”
He also answered numerous questions from the ShibuAni members. He cited the 1977 movie “Space Battleship Yamato” as “the work that majorly changed the history of anime,” explaining it as “a massive turning point where teenagers lined up overnight, becoming a social phenomenon.” Regarding “the difference between anime that tend to be popular in Japan versus overseas,” he offered a sharp analysis: “The reason why Isekai (reincarnation in another world) anime are popular overseas as well is that the need of 'people who struggle with life'—wanting to become strong in another world after coming from an unfortunate environment—has become a universal sentiment.”
Furthermore, when asked by Iwai, “What is your recommendation for indie anime?”, Fujitsu named “A Few Moments of Cheers” directed by Poprika (Hurray!), praising it immensely: “It is filled with their passion for creation, and the talent to think about what kind of visuals are needed when telling a story is marvelous.” He also introduced “Beyond the Trail” directed by Vab.png as another recommendation, expressing high expectations for the next generation of creators who sublimate their personal thoughts into stories.
In addition, among the many creators Fujitsu has interviewed over the years, he shared a behind-the-scenes story about Director Yoshiyuki Tomino as the individual who left the most “lasting impression.” He confessed to a shocking first encounter during his first interview in 1998, when Tomino jokingly “tested” him by laughing and saying, “I already took an interview from a rival magazine first, so today's interview might be canceled.” Elaborating on Tomino's greatness, Fujitsu revealed an insider story: “While he's making a work, he feels like 'I've created my masterpiece,' but half a year later, his stance changes to 'That part of it was no good.' Even if I say, 'But Turn A Gundam was great, wasn't it?', he will talk reflectively, saying, 'No, no, that one... had its flaws.' ” Fujitsu passionately stated that “his attitude of always pushing forward is what left the deepest impression.”
In the latter half of the program, during the regular “ShibuAni Anisong Corner” presented by Sho Higuchi of Tower Records Shinjuku, HanaHope's “blue hour,” the opening theme for the spring anime “A Hundred Scenes of AWAJIMA”, was introduced as a top recommendation. Higuchi offered his analysis: “The title 'blue hour' refers to the short period before sunrise and after sunset when the sky turns a slight shade of blue. I think it expresses the fleeting moments of youth.” He also noted, “The author Takako Shimura's distinct style matches perfectly with Madhouse's visual production.”
Furthermore, the latest updates were announced for the new anime “Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You,” which is scheduled to start in July. Ahead of the TV broadcast, it was announced that an ABEMA-exclusive advanced streaming version (a short version of about 10 minutes per episode, 12 episodes in total) will be released starting June 3 (Wednesday) at 20:30. A preview video for the advanced streaming version featuring the opening theme song “Kuzuri Nen” by ZUTOMAYO was also unveiled.
The show will take a break next week. In episode #88, broadcasting on June 12 (Friday) at 9:00 PM, Reina Motomura from the anime “Witch Hat Atelier” and Sankaku Head, the original author of “Himouto! Umaru-chan,” will appear as guests.
(C)AbemaTV,Inc.
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