Legendary artist Yoshitaka Amano, renowned for his iconic work on the Final Fantasy series, has announced the formation of a new Los Angeles-based animation studio, Yoshitaka Amano Inc. The studio's first project is an anime series titled ZAN, an adaptation of his 2013 artbook, described as a science-fiction action fantasy spanning time and space. The series is slated for a 2028 or later release, with two additional unannounced animated productions also in development.
Amano, speaking at Anime Expo and in a subsequent interview, stressed the importance of hand-drawn art on paper for the production of ZAN. He expressed concern that many contemporary artists have become disconnected from the fundamental drawing process, capable only of signing their names rather than creating art. "Preserving the idea of people drawing things—that’s what it all comes down to," Amano stated. He views animation as inherently tied to the act of hand-drawing, a practice he has upheld since his early career at Tatsunoko.
The production team for ZAN comprises seasoned industry veterans, including directors of animation Masashi Ikeda and Toru Yoshida, principal animator Moriyasu Taniguchi, writer Yuya Takashima, and art directors Kunio Ogawara and Minoru Nishida. The team's collective experience is substantial, with an average age exceeding 60, and some members over 80 years old. A short, 90-second pilot film for ZAN was showcased, reportedly featuring 2,700 pieces of hand-drawn art, with the team making edits to it the night before its reveal.
The decision to establish a studio in Los Angeles was influenced by Amano's positive experience visiting the Santa Monica Pier three years prior to Anime Expo. He found the location appealing and decided it would be the ideal setting for his company, also noting the presence of many fans and potential collaborators in the area. "I loved the weather, and I just decided—’I want our studio to be here,'" Amano explained.
Yoshitaka Amano Inc. aims to develop Amano's intellectual properties into a globally recognized brand. The studio's commitment to hand-drawn animation is framed as a passion project intended to mentor the next generation of artists. Amano believes that hands-on experience is crucial for aspiring creators. "You have kids now that are already asking, ‘How do you make art like this? How do you draw so well?' The answer Amano gives to that is, of course, rather simple. You have to sit down and actually draw."