Tatsuki Fujimoto, the creator of Chainsaw Man, has once again captured the attention of fans and critics with his latest work, Look Back. As the anime adaptation of this one-shot manga crosses the $6 million mark, a surprising revelation has emerged. Acclaimed video game designer Hideo Kojima might be responsible for a significant portion of its viewership.
While Look Back has undoubtedly achieved impressive numbers and debate among fans, industry insiders suggest that its potential earnings could be even greater. From a small-scale debut to expanding cultural collaborations may have significant opportunities for anime adaptation in the current entertainment market. The story highlights the potential for the anime to reach broader audiences.
Look Back‘s Unexpected Success Despite Limited Release
Tatsuki Fujimoto‘s Look Back has achieved remarkable success at the Japanese box office. In just 18 days, the movie earned approximately $6 million with a limited theatrical release. Initially opening in only 119 theaters, it has since expanded to over 165 venues. This growth in screening has a strong audience demand for the movie.
The film was directed by Kiyotaka Oshiyama and is based on Fujimoto’s manga about two girls aspiring to become manga artists. Its success is even noteworthy considering its origin as a one-shot manga that gained over 2.5 million views on the first day of release on the Shonen Jump+ app.
For the film’s critical acclaim and growing audience, a wider release could significantly boost its box office number.
Kojima’s Influence on Look Back‘s Rise
Hideo Kojima, the legendary video game designer, has become an unexpected visitor to the anime film Look Back. His passion for the film extends beyond viewings. He has taken to social media to share his admiration, calling it “one of the most remarkable anime of the past decades”.
In a series of tweets, Kojima praised the film’s emotional depth he felt. He added that the movie’s “rich expressions and sensitivity” surpass even some live-action films. He claims not only watched the movie but also purchased the original manga. This high praise from a figure of Kojima’s stature in the entertainment industry has undoubtedly contributed to the film’s growing popularity.
As the film continues to gain traction in Japan, international fans are clamoring for a global release. This situation mirrors the anticipation surrounding other popular films such as the Haikyuu movie, where delayed international releases have led to increased excitement and demand.
The combination of Kojima’s enthusiastic support and the growing international interest indicate that Look Back has the potential to achieve even greater success.
Look Back continues its theatrical run. With the current trajectory and positive word-of-mouth, the film has the potential to become an even bigger hit in the anime movie landscape.
