Shinichiro Watanabe, widely regarded as one of the most successful directors in the world of anime, has left an indelible mark with his work, particularly the original and incomparable “Cowboy Bebop.” In a recent interview, I had the pleasure of catching up with Watanabe to delve into his illustrious and eventful career.
Watanabe’s journey into the realm of anime took shape during his formative years. Born in Ayabe, a rural area in Kyoto, he enjoyed a childhood immersed in the natural beauty of mountains and fields. While his surroundings lacked the urban flair, it was through television that he began to explore his creative interests.
As Watanabe progressed into junior high school, his fascination with movies and anime grew steadily, igniting a desire within him to create such works himself. At the time, he found himself equally captivated by live-action and animated films, leading to a pivotal decision upon his high school graduation in 1984.
Reflecting on that pivotal moment, Watanabe shared, “That year happened to be when three very prominent anime were released: ‘Nausicaä,’ ‘Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer,’ and ‘Macross: Do You Remember Love?’ Watching these anime movies made me think that Japanese animation is far better than Japanese live-action. So I decided to go with making anime.”
Among the three influential anime movies, “Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer” resonated deeply with Watanabe, becoming his favorite. The film’s unrestrained creative freedom and surreal narrative captivated him, leaving a lasting impression of the limitless possibilities within the medium.
During his junior high school days, Watanabe found enjoyment in iconic Sunrise anime series like “Gundam” and “Ideon.” The prolific output of original titles by Sunrise, combined with his aspiration to create his own original anime someday, led him to join the esteemed animation studio. He believed that through his association with Sunrise, he would have the opportunity to explore and express his unique creative vision.
With each step along his journey, Watanabe’s passion for anime continued to flourish, ultimately leading him to become the visionary director responsible for groundbreaking works such as “Cowboy Bebop” and many others that have left an indelible mark on the medium.
As we eagerly await Watanabe’s future projects, we can’t help but appreciate the rich tapestry he has woven within the anime industry. His bold choices and unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries have made him an iconic figure, inspiring countless creators and captivating audiences worldwide.
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