Panel: France, the future of Japanese animation?

What are the connections between French and Japanese animation since Japanese anime established itself in the audiovisual landscape of French-speaking audiences?

In recent years, the boundaries between Japanese and French animation have become increasingly blurred, giving rise to hybrid works driven by creators who are passionate about both cultures. Projects like Oban Star-Racers, created by Savin Yeatman-Eiffel, are a perfect example of this fusion: developed in France and produced in Japan with renowned figures from the anime industry, the series left a lasting impact on an entire generation.

In a more contemporary context, the studio Bobby Pills, co-founded by Balak, represents this bold new wave of French animation. Deeply influenced by the energy and aesthetic of Japanese anime, as well as the irreverence and punk spirit of French comic art in the tradition of Métal Hurlant or Fluide Glacial, Bobby Pills exemplifies how the two cultures can collide to create something fresh and unexpected.

Looking ahead, Nao Hirasawa, producer at ARCH Inc., continues to explore how this evolving synergy will shape the future of animation.