Kiyotaka Oshiyama Discusses the Creation of *Look Back* and Its Impact

– Kiyotaka Oshiyama’s *Look Back* is a feature adaptation of a popular manga, grossing over $12 million. – His entry came via Avex Pictures, aided by social media illustrations. – He navigated personal challenges while pursuing animation, emphasizing perseverance. – The film creatively balances pacing and emotional resonance through music and visuals. – A climactic scene using still images succeeded beyond expectations.

A Successful Animated Debut
Kiyotaka Oshiyama’s animated feature film, Look Back, adapts Tatsuki Fujimoto’s bestselling manga and delivers a touching coming-of-age narrative. The film has captivated global audiences, earning over $12 million and achieving a prominent place on Prime Video. At just under an hour, it explores the competitive relationship between Ayumi Fujino and the mysterious Kyomoto, filled with artistic rivalry and growth.

Journey into Animation
Oshiyama shared that his entry into Look Back began when Avex Pictures sought his collaboration. After a competitive pitch process with multiple studios, he believes his social media illustrations played a crucial role in securing the project. He emphasizes the importance of viewing manga not as something to create, but as a medium better appreciated as a viewer.

Personal Struggles and Growth
Reflecting on his path to filmmaking, Oshiyama attributes his artistic passion to familial influences and supportive friendships. Although he faced academic setbacks, he pursued animation, finding a place in the industry through perseverance after initially struggling with career choices. His journey encapsulates themes of determination resonant in Look Back.

Creative Challenges in Adaptation
Adapting a condensed narrative about complex emotions like grief necessitated creative solutions. Oshiyama explains that he aimed for a concise runtime to ease production logistics, ultimately finding synergy between visuals and music to evoke emotions effectively. He aimed for a balance in pacing that allows audiences to connect with the characters’ experiences.

Unexpected Resonance with Audiences
Oshiyama candidly reflected on a scene towards the film’s climax, which employed still images and music to convey a span of memories. Initially concerned that this stylistic choice might detract from the storytelling, he found that audiences embraced it, confirming the emotional impact he hoped to achieve.

Kiyotaka Oshiyama’s journey through the making of *Look Back* reveals the importance of personal experience, artistic passion, and adaptability in creative storytelling. His commitment to authenticity and innovative approaches led to a film that resonates profoundly with audiences worldwide, demonstrating the delicate balance between art and viewer engagement.

Original Source: deadline.com