Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno gives his perspective on the anime panorama and the dominance of Shonen Jump.
Deep in the world of anime, Hideaki Anno, the visionary behind “Neon Genesis Evangelion,” reflects on his place in the industry. Unlike the anime titans that dominate the current scene, Anno admits that his passion is no longer in the limelight, but on the creative fringes, exploring less-charted visual territories. This revelation comes at a time when shonen jump films are sweeping the international box office, redefining what success means in anime cinema.
Anno and the new challenge
Hideaki Anno was a central figure in Japanese animation, but today, he finds himself at the crossroads of self-discovery and change. “I don’t think young people today want something new,” Anno admitted in a recent interview with the Asahi Shimbun. His comments show not only personal release, but keen observation of current trends in cultural consumption. He prefers the stability of the known to the anxiety of the unknown, a choice that is consistent with a generation that thrives on predictable comfort.
However, this position is not a defeat, but rather a readjustment. Anno realizes that while the visual style may not be at the forefront of mainstream anime, it’s still crucial for those looking for something beyond the tried-and-true formula.
Shonen Jump dominated the box office
In parallel, Shonen Jump movie adaptations such as “One Piece Movie: Red” and “Jujutsu Kaizen 0” have proven to be box office phenomena. In the year By 2022, these titles have gone beyond capturing the imaginations of millions and set new standards for success, with directors like Goro Taniguchi expecting the monumental task of earning more than 10 billion yen. This event marks an era of high expectations and rapid delivery to a global audience, expanding its reach and strengthening its impact on global popular culture.
Although he retreated from the avant-garde, Ano did not abandon his legacy. “Gospel” broke box office records in 2021 and its latest installment “Gospel: 3.0+1.0” has been a titan in 2021 in its own right. face to face . In the meantime, fans of the franchise can relive the original series on Netflix and browse the latest movies on Prime Video.
Neon Genesis Evangelion’s lasting impact
Neon Genesis Evangelion is not just another title in the vast library of anime; It is a cultural phenomenon that resonates deeply across generations. Hideaki Anno’s work is notable for its introspective and often disturbing approach to topics such as depression, isolation and the search for personal meaning, marking the before and after of telling stories in media.
Over the years, Evangelion has influenced not only other anime, but pop culture in general, setting a high standard for visual and thematic storytelling. Compared to other contemporary Shonen Jump titles, often focused on dramatic adventures and fights, Evangelion delves into the dark recesses of the human soul, which remains relevant in debates about the scope and depth of anime as an art form. This duality between business and concept is what defines Anon’s work and underscores his unique value in the industry.
Before his time
Hideaki Anno’s evolution from undisputed innovator to creator on the fringes is emblematic of the changes in the anime industry and audience preferences. His willingness to experience and embrace a more relatable role shows an artistic maturity and wisdom that can only come from years of experience in an ever-changing medium.
In an industry where the new is often enthusiastically celebrated, Anno’s vision gives pause for thought about the importance of innovation and the comfort of the familiar. His legacy and works continue to challenge our expectations, inviting us to look beyond the norm and appreciate the beauty in the less explored corners of anime art.