Akira creator Katsuhiro Otomo’s mysterious new sci-fi movie just got a massive update
Japanese animator and Akira creator Katsuhiro Otomo has announced the launch of a new animation studio, Oval Gear, marking a significant development after years of relative silence from the legendary figure. Otomo, known for his pioneering work during Japan’s manga New Wave in the 1970s and his influential career spanning both comics and film, has not released a major work since 2013, when he contributed an opening short titled Hi no Youjin to the anime anthology Short Peace.
The studio launch comes amid ongoing developments surrounding Orbital Era, a feature film that Otomo was announced to be writing and directing back in 2019 with Sunrise as the producing studio. The creation of Oval Gear raises questions about whether the new studio will be involved in completing Orbital Era or whether Otomo will pursue new projects alongside his established work. Details about the studio’s structure, scope, and upcoming projects remain unclear at this time.
Despite his extended absence from new releases, Otomo’s impact on animation and manga remains substantial. His contributions have influenced generations of creators, and the establishment of Oval Gear suggests the possibility of renewed creative output from one of the industry’s most respected figures.