ANIAFF is proud to launch a new spotlight program: Director Focus, highlighting the works of outstanding animation directors from around the world. Kicking off this new initiative is none other than director Mamoru Hosoda of Studio Chizu!
On August 1st (Fri), Hosoda’s summer classic Summer Wars will air on national television, while his newest film The Scarlet Beyond has already gained attention at both the Venice and Toronto International Film Festivals. For ANIAFF, we will host a special showcase of his most beloved titles — including the breakout hit The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and his highest-grossing film Belle, which captivated audiences worldwide.
A comment from ANIAFF Artistic Director Tadashi Sudō:
“Nearly 20 years have passed since Mamoru Hosoda created a sensation with The Girl Who Leapt Through Time. Since then, through the medium of feature animation, he has demonstrated an incredible talent for exploring universal themes like family, adolescence, and self-discovery. His stories often transcend reality, capturing hearts across borders.
Hosoda is now one of the world’s most celebrated animation directors. By looking back at his works, we can gain new insights into the current state and possibilities of animation as a form of visual expression. His films, and their themes, are a mirror to our times.”