The legendary creator of Akira, Katsuhiro Otomo, has announced the founding of a new animation studio called OVAL GEAR. The goal is to pass on his artistic style and visual expression to new generations, as well as to produce and distribute animated works globally. A title is already in production, although details remain under wraps for now.
OVAL GEAR's technical bet to inherit the visual legacy 🎨
OVAL GEAR is envisioned as a development hub where Otomo seeks to preserve the traditional animation techniques that defined his work, combining them with modern digital tools. The studio aims to train young artists in his particular approach to composition, pacing, and visual narrative. Although no concrete technical specifications have been revealed, the first project is expected to leverage both veteran talent and new promises to maintain the aesthetic coherence that characterizes its founder.
Otomo opens studio, fans already fear another Akira in 20 years ⏳
With OVAL GEAR already rolling, some fans have pulled out their calculators: if Otomo repeats the production timelines of Akira (or those of the mythical fourth Akira film that never came), we might see the first trailer by the time our grandchildren are old enough to watch it. Of course, as long as they don't announce a new project called Bicycle Race: The Movie, we can wait patiently. Or not.