"Eternal Yugure," an original TV anime produced by PAWORKS, the animation production company behind "true tears" and "SHIROBAKO," is currently airing on MBS/TBS's late-night anime slot, "Super Animeism TURBO." It's a full-fledged love story set in a future world where AI technology has advanced. The protagonist, Himegami Akira, who has pledged his love to his beloved, Ou Maki Towasa, wakes up from years of cold sleep to find a city devastated by war. An android named Yugure, who bears a striking resemblance to Towasa, appears before Akira, and they embark on a journey together, believing they will be reunited with Towasa, who is believed to be alive somewhere in the world. We spoke to lead animator Nabeta Kayoko about the behind-the-scenes production.
◇Love, comedy, and combat intertwine
-What were you responsible for in this work?
He is the original artist and superviser of the complex acting in each scene.
-What is your impression of the work?
My impression is that this is a work that intertwines three elements that don't normally go together: romance, comedy, and combat.
-What kind of instructions did the director give you?
I was told, "Since it's an original anime, let's do whatever we want!", so I was able to draw and supervise the action scenes to my heart's content!
◇Focus on silhouette
-What was important to you when expressing the world of the work?
I created the original drawings to express the individuality of the characters without destroying the worldview of the work. In particular, I paid attention to how to express the girlish movements and grace of the characters, as well as the boldness and strength of androids in the action scenes.
-Did you have any difficulties?
In order to make the most of the distinctive silhouettes in the character designs, I focused on silhouettes when creating the original drawings for action scenes such as everyday scenes and battles. I focused on portraying both the mechanical side of Yugure, the girl who appears in the story, and her purity as a woman.
-Finally, please give us a message.
The bittersweet daily lives of the characters and their fluctuating emotions as the story progresses, as well as the "twilight" in the title, are expressed through fantastical visuals. The comical exchanges and spectacular action scenes are also highlights, and there are plenty of directing techniques that will draw the viewer into the world of the work. Please pay attention to the emotions and way of life of each character, and be drawn into the unique worldview.
